Currently Channeling: Labyrinth
Once upon a time, there was a fantastically dark movie filled with extraordinary creatures, like malevolent muppets and a hairspray-embellished David Bowie. The fantasy flick of which we speak—Labyrinth—might be shelved in the kids' section at your local Blockbuster, but the story is not unsophisticated fare. Rather, this mid-eighties ode to mazes, men wearing makeup, and meaningful life lessons about regret and patience, taught us that every choice has a consequence and that puppets can be incredibly creepy. In addition to this noteworthy education, the outstanding Jim Henson-directed film also gave us something totally unexpected, namely, one of our first fashion crushes.
Though the connection between a fantasy movie and fantastic style isn't obvious, we've always thought that Sarah Williams (Jennifer Connelly's character) is thoroughly inspiring. Sure, her outfits look a little awkward now, but we’ve always adored their inherently rebellious bohemian spirit—a sensibility shared by our heroine—tremendously.
As truly devoted Labyrinth enthusiasts, we flipped when we discovered a few Sarah Williams-style items on the spring runways. At Isabel Marant, we noticed an oversized, cuffed, and rolled tunic with the same sort of slouchy chic as our heroine's favored tops. We were also struck by the similarities between Diane von Furstenberg's incredible Spring/Summer 09 show and our film du jour. One of our favorite runway looks featured a cascading floral garland headpiece paired with the Hippolyte Crochet Lace Dress
($495)—a romantic combination that evoked some of Labyrinth's most gorgeous moments. Readers take note: the heavenly headpieces are available at the Diane von Furstenberg flagship store in New York (646.486.4800). Choose between Floral Pink and Floral White ($125 each), or go for the metallic Golden Vine ($150).
In addition to these marvelous runway examples, we also noticed that stores are stocking a great deal of Labyrinth-ish items right now. Besides the DVF headpiece, we found a white floral version by ban.do that looks like one of Connelly’s key accessories. Even if you're not a fan of the film, the ban.do She Enjoys Shakespeare in the Park Headpiece ($200) is a sweetly innocent addition to any wardrobe.
On an edgier note, we couldn't resist including the angular Double Sided Triangle Necklace ($245) by All For The Mountain. The triple triangle necklace is the perfect piece of geometric eighties jewelry and has already been spotted on major tastemakers, including Erin Wasson.
Moving on: we'd like to direct your attention to one of the most literal interpretations of today's Currently Channeling style—Delia's Katerina Boho Top
($36.50). The blousy shirt would look very Labyrinth-esque, especially if paired with an embroidered waistcoat, like Forever 21's Floral Embroidered Vest ($22.80).
Our next pick isn't ripped from the film exactly, but it's fabulous nevertheless. Despite the fact that the Labyrinth costume team didn't hook up Connelly with a particularly cool pair of jeans, we found an amazing option for you. The 7 For All Mankind Bell Bottoms ($245) in VCAL are already a celeb favorite (Katie Holmes, Kate Hudson, and Heidi Klum are fans) and will be available for purchase shortly! Starting in April, you'll find the Bell Bottoms at two 7 For All Mankind shops (Soho in New York and Robertson in Los Angeles), as well as in their online boutique. There’s already a waiting list for these jeans, so call the Robertson store (310.385.9540) and reserve a pair today!
As for the rest of our Labyrinth look? We selected a Scrittura Italian Printed Leather Journal ($35) by Barnes & Noble for its fantasy-film feeling and added a pair of Nine West's Victor Platforms ($99) too. Admittedly, Connelly wears loafers in the movie, but we think these studded mules are a better fit!
Finally, we’ll close this installment of Currently Channeling with a little fantasy of our own: 3.1 Phillip Lim's Full Length Silk Dress
($1195). It's a stunning piece and a modern update to the crazy poofy gown Connelly wears to a masquerade ball in the movie. Since we'd need a little help from the Goblin King (or David Bowie himself) to justify that purchase, for now, we'll settle for the affordable simplicity of James Perse's Maxi Dress
($155).
Runway Imagery, First View.
Though the connection between a fantasy movie and fantastic style isn't obvious, we've always thought that Sarah Williams (Jennifer Connelly's character) is thoroughly inspiring. Sure, her outfits look a little awkward now, but we’ve always adored their inherently rebellious bohemian spirit—a sensibility shared by our heroine—tremendously.
As truly devoted Labyrinth enthusiasts, we flipped when we discovered a few Sarah Williams-style items on the spring runways. At Isabel Marant, we noticed an oversized, cuffed, and rolled tunic with the same sort of slouchy chic as our heroine's favored tops. We were also struck by the similarities between Diane von Furstenberg's incredible Spring/Summer 09 show and our film du jour. One of our favorite runway looks featured a cascading floral garland headpiece paired with the Hippolyte Crochet Lace Dress
In addition to these marvelous runway examples, we also noticed that stores are stocking a great deal of Labyrinth-ish items right now. Besides the DVF headpiece, we found a white floral version by ban.do that looks like one of Connelly’s key accessories. Even if you're not a fan of the film, the ban.do She Enjoys Shakespeare in the Park Headpiece ($200) is a sweetly innocent addition to any wardrobe.
On an edgier note, we couldn't resist including the angular Double Sided Triangle Necklace ($245) by All For The Mountain. The triple triangle necklace is the perfect piece of geometric eighties jewelry and has already been spotted on major tastemakers, including Erin Wasson.
Moving on: we'd like to direct your attention to one of the most literal interpretations of today's Currently Channeling style—Delia's Katerina Boho Top
Our next pick isn't ripped from the film exactly, but it's fabulous nevertheless. Despite the fact that the Labyrinth costume team didn't hook up Connelly with a particularly cool pair of jeans, we found an amazing option for you. The 7 For All Mankind Bell Bottoms ($245) in VCAL are already a celeb favorite (Katie Holmes, Kate Hudson, and Heidi Klum are fans) and will be available for purchase shortly! Starting in April, you'll find the Bell Bottoms at two 7 For All Mankind shops (Soho in New York and Robertson in Los Angeles), as well as in their online boutique. There’s already a waiting list for these jeans, so call the Robertson store (310.385.9540) and reserve a pair today!
As for the rest of our Labyrinth look? We selected a Scrittura Italian Printed Leather Journal ($35) by Barnes & Noble for its fantasy-film feeling and added a pair of Nine West's Victor Platforms ($99) too. Admittedly, Connelly wears loafers in the movie, but we think these studded mules are a better fit!
Finally, we’ll close this installment of Currently Channeling with a little fantasy of our own: 3.1 Phillip Lim's Full Length Silk Dress
Runway Imagery, First View.
I want the entire Isabel Marant outfit. Any idea where I can find the bracelet, shirt-dress and belt?
Posted by: S | 2009-03-10 21:32:15
I love the vest! This post is more like what you guys used to do. More posts like this, please!
Posted by: r | 2009-03-06 14:37:15
This makes me want to watch this movie.. David Bowie is such sex. I love those jeans, the vest and the Delias top. exquisillusiore.blogspot.com exquisillusiore.blogspot.com exquisillusiore.blogspot.com
Posted by: Hadley | 2009-03-05 17:01:13
Absolutely adore Isabel Marant's faint pink shirt dress. The turqouise bangle is a great touch. For a more accessible version, feel free to check out this Casablanca Bracelet. :) http://www.tinatang.com/bracelets/stone/brac_126cas.html
Posted by: TheTinaTangCrew | 2009-03-05 16:45:32
Absolutely adore Isabel Marant's faint pink shirt dress. The turqouise bangle is a great touch. For a more accessible version, feel free to check out this Casablanca Bracelet. :)
Posted by: TheTinaTangCrew | 2009-03-05 16:39:05
Any idea where I can find a pair of white sandals heels with an ornamental pink orchid attached. I saw some a few years ago by Banana Republic and another pair in a book by Celine.
Posted by: odl | 2009-03-05 08:44:20
OMG I just bought that vest yesterday. Saw it and knew I can't miss. Was thinking how to pull it off. Thanks www!
Posted by: Rainbow | 2009-03-05 00:28:21
Why wasn't Toby's striped onesie represented? :-D
Posted by: ames | 2009-03-04 20:39:05
Haha, I want that vest!
Posted by: Vivian | 2009-03-04 20:35:47
Interesting post! I would never remember this movie as "inspiring" (mean, fashionably talking). But it actually is. All those bizarre scenes and characters... at least this time doesn't look that hippie cliché, it's def more chic and sofisticated.
Posted by: Isabela T. | 2009-03-04 20:05:53
One of the best movies ever. I remember as 8 year old nerdy little girl feeling funny in MY pants about the bulge in David Bowie's white pants. Yum! Truly inspired post.
Posted by: Diabolina | 2009-03-04 18:41:48
and the seven jeans are more then currentelliott? i dont get it. seven so not cool.
Posted by: vint love | 2009-03-04 18:40:01
totally agree, blythe. even the same holes as current eliott. want the OG.
Posted by: stylegirlll | 2009-03-04 18:37:44
currently channeling.... current elliott? those bells are an exact copy of my bells i bought from CE last fall. anyone care to aknowledge?
Posted by: Blythe Paley | 2009-03-04 18:35:19
wait. WHAT?!? 7 bells. they totally ripped off current/elliot. whatever. the elephant bell is the original. these are such a knock off. gross.
Posted by: LZ | 2009-03-04 18:26:13
The Phillip Lim dress is so simple and so beautiful! i loveee it
Posted by: mischa | 2009-03-04 17:58:15
Wow! Who the hell thinks of this stuff? I would have never even thought of channeling labyrinth in a million years. It works perfectly though. Another great post for a great film. Keep up the good work wwwd!!
Posted by: Quilty | 2009-03-04 16:55:00
give me that necklace, dress, and models. goodness. hannahwanna.blogspot.com
Posted by: hannah | 2009-03-04 15:39:49
The headpiece and the journal are simply beautiful. Check out http://thestitched.blogspot.com
Posted by: Kay | 2009-03-04 14:48:22
the Babe!! haha, i love this movie too! There were some crazy characters...she was like the angel and David was like, well the dark demon!! Such a fairytale. I love the "hippie" style she has and I never give it up!
Posted by: Juls | 2009-03-04 14:43:30
Perhaps I was a strange little girl, but my fashion crush was on David Bowie's character. It was the eyebrows?
Posted by: a | 2009-03-04 14:25:09
i am OBSESSED with the DVF dress. I am determined to buy it. I NEED it!
Posted by: Taryn | 2009-03-04 12:51:55
BARF
Posted by: KiKi | 2009-03-04 11:54:03
brilliant!! {www.lovemaegan.com}
Posted by: ...love Maegan | 2009-03-04 10:43:21
this is my favorite movie of all times. i am so excited to see this post. so in love.
Posted by: Ami | 2009-03-04 09:50:49
Amazing!, Love that movie =) and those headpieces!
Posted by: n* | 2009-03-04 09:09:02
I haven't commented in ages, but I felt I had to commend y'all for this post! I love Labyrinth!~~ This was pretty genius...who would have thought...?
Posted by: Aitch | 2009-03-04 07:41:03
love the post! for the most beautiful floral headpieces check out http://laravincent.blogspot.com/! i got one and it's amazing!
Posted by: genna | 2009-03-04 07:02:36
I love Labyrinth! I actually prefer David Bowie's style in the movie, especially those tight pants which showed off his rather impressive..er, bulge. I love this "Currently Channeling" series; clever, tongue-in-cheek, and some of your best posts.
Posted by: T | 2009-03-04 06:13:35
Oh my god, what a cute post! This is the whowhatwear i know and love.
Posted by: Erock | 2009-03-04 05:45:53
I am obsessed with the DVF dress. To me, it is the epitome of a perfect item of clothing.
Posted by: ilana | 2009-03-04 03:49:19
NO WAY! i have a draft labyrinth post waiting for me to finish...i LOVE the movie, hav been in love with it since i was a little, and i (honestly) watch the movie once a week on average, i actually love it. the scene at the masked ball is so beautiful! great post i especially love the necklace and the 3.1 phillip lim goddess worthy dress :) xxx love LM
Posted by: Love More | 2009-03-04 02:44:06
i love that Isabel Marant tunic. come see me here- www.noirblancetrougepartout.blogspot.com/ x
Posted by: s | 2009-03-04 02:09:33