Leg Warmer Decade

More progress has been made with our film opening and we have decided to make the film take place during the 80s, which provides accuracy as there was a large cocaine epidemic in the 80s and it will allow for an interesting art direction through costume and set design. The 80s was full of interesting clothing movements that could be shown with the different characters in the opening. Along with this, the decade included many bright and unique color schemes and patterns that can be used in the costumes and set design.

For the clothing, there are countless fashion trends from the 80s, both great and not to great looking, that can make their way into the film. One of the largest trends, denim saw a huge rise in popularity with people wearing dad jeans and even pairing it with a jean jacket to double down on the denim. Casual clothing was the big thing during this decade with famous actors and musicians opting for a crew-neck t-shirt under an oversized suit jacket rather than a button-up.

Carrying over the popularity of punk from the 60s and 70s into the 80s, leather jackets were a popular trend that showcased an edgy bad boy vibe that could work especially well with the addict character. At the moment, we are not sure what the main character is famous for, but he will most likely be either a musician or an actor, so the costume may vary slightly depending the route we go with. A casual suit paired with a printed t-shirt may work well for an actor, while the punk leather jacket paired with jeans could work well for a rebellious musician addict.

Often associated with fashion trends, the 80s brought an incredibly unique movement with color based around bright neon colors and patterns. Pastels and neon colors dominated the 80s and made their way into t-shirts, dress shirts, and even decor. The use of these bright colors can bring a striking contrast between the dark themes and tone given from the characters addiction and conflicts. The colors would also provide a very eye-catching element to the opening that will bring people in visually and get them to be more interested in the story. 

Another aspect the use of this time frame for the film opening provides, is the draw of nostalgia for the audience who may have lived through this decade. Recent TV shows and films like Stranger Things have proven that the nostalgia from the 80s can be a driving force for interest in a production, with the costumes and references in Stranger Things giving the show an interesting aspect that differentiates itself from other shows. Not only is this show to work with people who lived through the 80s, but also with those who were born after who can still appreciate the art direction and almost share a sense of nostalgia. 

Sources:

Williamson, Lauren. “1980s Fashion: 10 80s Fashion Trends for Men.” Men's Health, 18 Apr. 2019, www.menshealth.com.au/80s-fashion-trends-for-men.

Brewer, Taylah. “80s Fashion for Men (How to Get the 1980's Style).” The Trend Spotter, 28 Aug. 2019, www.thetrendspotter.net/80s-fashion-men/.