Another fantastic and visually stimulating film by Sofia Coppola is the Virgin Suicides. This is by far one of my favorite films by her (if not my favorite) and is a perfect example of Coppola's dreamy, vintage-y, moody and pretty aesthetic.
The film (released in 1999) follows a group of male friends who become obsessed with the beautiful and mysterious young Lisbon family sisters. The sisters keep to themselves but put off this energy that attracts everyone around them. One of them unfortunately commits suicide in the beginning of the film, forcing their strict religious parents to shelter the remaining four sisters. It's a dark but beautiful film depicting these young women being restricted from the world, like pretty little birds in a cage unable to fly free.
Set in 1970's middle America suburbia, the entire feel of the film is dreary but with little bursts of light and hope brought on by the Lisbon sisters appearances and energies. Lux Lisbon (played by Kirsten Dunst), in particular, is a ray of light that brings in all sorts of attention. She is the bird that tries her best to break free but in the end, is just as held back as the others.
The styling in The Virgin Suicides is absolutely on point. Completely perfect for the era and also for the story line, while still remaining consistent with Coppola's vision. The Lisbon sisters' wardrobe is a dream wardrobe that girls in the 70s and right now would love to own. It represents youth, the need for adventure and curiosity.
The sisters are all things pretty and sweet, with their silky blonde hair and milky skin but their circumstances are anything but sweet and pretty. Toward the end of the film, their existence simply consists of being held up in their bedroom like princesses locked in a tower. With nothing but their records, their clothing and each other to keep them busy. Taking such a dark story and turning it into a gorgeous portrayal of these sisters' lives is something that Coppola and her crew are extremely successful in doing.
Here are some examples of the Lisbon sisters' style on the runways and editorials:
Marc Jacobs floral frock.
Christopher Kane Summer/Spring 2010
Rodarte x Opening Ceremony Spring 2011
The Spring/Summer issue of Dujour (a bi-monthly indie fashion/lifestyle magazine) was titled "the Virgin Issue" inspired by the Coppola film.
Here is my styling interpretation of the Lisbon sister's style:
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