There are many words one might use to describe Sweeney Todd’s lovestruck piemaker; misguided, twisted, and frightening are those that most easily come to mind.  One thing she is certainly not, however, is badly dressed.  As portrayed by Helena Bonham Carter in Tim Burton’s just-released film version, Mrs. Lovett is wickedly stylish, using her clothes, hair, and makeup to haunting effect.  While her behavior should hardly be imitated, her show-stopping look is something we all can aspire to.

Drop that goth eye makeup though: a literal interpretation is not needed to capture Bonham Carter’s darkly whimsical look.  Instead, stick to subtle hair and makeup - artfully mussed curls or a smoky eye should be sufficient without looking costumey.

The drama should lie in the clothes - in the film, they referenced both the dark and light sides of Victorian culture, and should be modernized as such.  The Sweeney Todd look is all about a black and red color palette with whimsical details - feathers, brocade, sheer trim, polkadots, and lace.

For an up-to-date spin on what might be the year’s best movie costumes, try a ruffled black high-neck frock by Corey Lynn Calter, or an ethereal organza dress by Vera Wang.  Pair with Victorian-style ankle boots like these by Charles David.

Posted on December 18th, 2007 by ashley