Click on Any Image to View Costume as Featured in the Film
Vivien Leigh White Lace Blouse. Gone With the Wind, MGM, 1939.
Hollywood Costumes
Since their earliest days, the movies have been concerned with historical and Biblical subjects. The first cinematic genius, D.W. Griffith, turned for his greatest themes to the Civil War, the French Revolution and ancient Babylon. Then came the era of Cecil B. De Mille's extravaganzas, drawing on the Bible, the 'wickedness' of ancient Rome, and early America.
The Museum of Fine Arts and Popular Culture possesses a collection of costumes designed-for, worn and featured in important Hollywood films. In addition to its costumes, the Museum's archives hold an a treasure-trove of related film production material.
Along with films of the various periods in the history of the cinema, movie costumes reflect the social and economic conditions and the changing tastes of the nation.
Basil Rathbone Brocade Tunic. Adventures of Robin Hood, Warner Bros, 1936.
Along with the Museum's collection of Classic Film Posters, the museum offers a vivid record of this endlessly fascinating genre of artistic productions. A museum visit will prove invaluable not only to film buffs but also to costume designers, social historians and anyone interested in the history of film.
Winkie Guard Costume (partial). The Wizard of Oz, MGM, 1939.
Groucho Marx Tailcoat. At the Circus, MGM, 1939.
Ingrid Bergman Two-Piece Suit. Casablanca,,Warner Bros. 1942
James Cagney Two-Piece Herringbone Suit. Yankee Doodle Dandy, WB, 1942.
Gary Lockwood Discovery One Jumpsuit. 2001, MGM, 1968.