Is it just Lily James or is every single one of these outfits impeccable?

In October, Netflix released a Ben Wheatley-helmed adaptation of the classic 1938 Gothic novel "Rebecca," starring Lily James and Armie Hammer. In the classic tale, a nameless, middle-class young woman marries a handsome, wealthy widower following a whirlwind affair in Monte Carlo. When she moves back to England with him, she discovers his family manor, Manderley, is still plagued by the memory of his late wife, the titular Rebecca. The formidable Kristin Scott Thomas co-stars as Manderley's intimidating housekeeper, Mrs. Danvers. The rest, you can find out on Netflix, in the Hitchcock adaptation, or in the book

While the recent Netflix adaptation got mixed reviews, it was my first introduction to the tale, and I loved its evocative Gothic atmosphere, beautiful cinematography—and every. single. outfit. As A.O. Scott of The New York Times wrote of the movie: "Armie Hammer, Lily James, Kristin Scott Thomas and a lot of nice clothes star in a new adaptation of the Daphne du Maurier novel." Of course, it doesn't hurt to put those "nice clothes" on Lily James, Famously Beautiful Person, but these 1930s-inspired looks are for anyone, anywhere, anytime. 

Lily James, Rebecca, outfit

When Lily James' protagonist and Armie Hammer's Max de Winter first meet, it's in sunny Monte Carlo, where she's the companion to a wealthy American woman. James' outfits in Monte Carlo are the epitome of easy and breezy. Her blousy, patterned tops, wide-legged pants, and charming straw hat would work just as well on a post-pandemic vacation as they would have in the 1930s.

Lily James, Armie Hammer, Rebecca

For that matter, any menswear aficionados dying for Armie Hammer's linen suit here? Colonel Mustard, but make it Monte Carlo.

Lily James, Armie Hammer, Rebecca

Speaking of menswear ... this classic, feminine suit pairs so beautifully with a rich, wine-colored turtleneck and a cute-ass beret. Dress for the job you want, ladies—and don't we all want to walk through an orchard with Max de Winter?

Lily James, Rebecca, style

The blazer is back, Baby! And if I've learned anything from Rebecca, it's that even beautiful young women who marry into money are outfit repeaters. And why not? There's something so cozy yet polished about that fine sweater and blazer with bold, wide-leg pants. (And if you were wondering—wide-leg pants options can be found here, here, or here if you're looking to shop sustainable fashion.)

Lily James, Armie Hammer, Rebecca

I'm truly inspired by the fact that Lily James' character has not one, but two blue berets, each in a different shade. Between this and To All the Boys I've Loved Before's Lara Jean, I'm properly considering getting a beret. (If you are, too, it looks like this Etsy shop makes gorgeous, high-quality ones.) 

Lily James, Rebecca, style

I'm sorry, can we take a moment to appreciate this? The tweed suit is legendary for a reason, and these rich mustard tones and puffed sleeves make this one a glam take on the classic.

Lily James, Rebecca, style

In the film, this dress is thrown on as a last-minute substitute, but I'm enchanted by its delicate floral pattern and simple silhouette. Even though it was nicknamed "the sad dress" on set, it was reportedly Lily James' "favorite dress throughout the whole film." Costume designer Julian Day told Fashionista, "We had quite a few made and I gave her one at the end." 

Lily James, Armie Hammer, Rebecca

We don't see much of this dress in this shot, but I love its rich floral pattern, which evokes this Gustav Klimt piece and this delightful Kandinsky painting. Paired with those sweet short sleeves, I just can't get enough of it.

Lily James, Armie Hammer, Rebecca

All photos courtesy of IMDB

As a parting gift, I present to you ... the headband. Is this schoolgirl classic back? If so, I'm so there! 

Did you watch Rebecca? Which was your favorite fashion pick? Let us know in the comments.

Tabitha Brower
A film school grad, Tabitha loves well-told stories wherever she can find them, whether in movies, TV, music, books, or games. She's also a nature enthusiast, so catch her birdwatching or hitting up a new hike. You can find her cheeky mini film reviews on Letterboxd as @tabbrower.
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