Storyboard, style Cynthia Friese Storyboard, style Cynthia Friese

MARILYN.

Growing up The Misfits (1961) was one of the many Films that impacted my love for Classic Cinema and storytelling. I probably shouldn’t of been watching it;) but 1980’s parenting was pretty hands-off when it came to certain things:) Movie topics for sure.

But, this American Western had an Artistic flair to it. How could it not with John Huston Directing and Screenplay by Arthur Miller? and the legendary cast of Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, Montgomery Clift and it's supporting actors of Eli Wallach with Thelma Ritter. The Stories behind it made it even more fascinating including that it was the last completed film by both Marilyn and Gable. Gable dying10 days after it’s production finished and Monroe in 1962.

There was a vulnerability to each of their performances that I noticed while re-watching. Especially in Roselyn (Monroe), she had so many layers Real and imagined I had forgotten. As adult I understood definitely more. I know Marilyn hated this film, the personal drama of drinking, prescription drug abuse and the unraveling of her marriage to Miller. It also was a commercial failure. But, now it's considered a Black & White (The most expensive at the time) masterpiece.

I personally also enjoyed how style defined it’s leading lady and seeing Marilyn more casual. I thought it would be a perfect StoryboardC style. I hope you enjoy and hopefully watch the film. It’s available on PRIME.

Marilyn

Shirt• Filming in the Nevada Desert in a white crisp mens style shirt would be a challenge, but Marilyn pulled it off with some help from her Lee Stormer Coat too. I chose a modern classic from Ann Mashburn perfect for any of us. Icon Spread Shirt.

Jean’s•Lady Levi’s for Marilyn. A Storied History HERE and HERE of iconic vintage western wear with curves. You can pick up your own Levi 1950'S 701® WOMEN'S JEANS HERE.

Boots•In October of 1999 at Christie’s, Marilyn’s most iconic Personal Property went up for Auction. Bringing in over 13 Million which included her square-toed tan leather boots worn in The Misfits. They themselves fetched a modest;) 85 grand that were sold to designer Tommy Hilfiger.

I myself went with a little lesser price of my personal favorite cowboy styled boot that I almost bought while living in Austin, Texas. I love the simplicity of THE BILLY PULL ON IN COGNAC.

Accessories

Hat• I kept it classic with A Stetson of course and choosing the Best Made Stetson Burnet Hat.

Belt•This Emil Erwin Signature Belt in Walnut is timeless. Handmade in Nashville, Tenn. with signature care and detail. It would last a lifetime and more.

Blanket•I loved the scene of when Roselyn and Isabelle go out to Guido’s half finished house for a night of drinking and dancing with the boys. On the sofa is a Blanket similar to this ONE from Pendleton.

Sage•While the girls are driving out to the House. Roselyn marvels at the amazing desert smell of wild Sage.

Lasso•last, but not least. A smaller elegant version of a Lasso from Hermes.

C.

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Storyboard, Style Cynthia Friese Storyboard, Style Cynthia Friese

REAR WINDOW.

Rear Window.

It was one of my all time favorite films as a kid. I just thought Grace Kelly’s Character Lisa Fremont was just about the coolest thing. Her impeccable wardrobe (thanks to the legendary costume designer Edith Head) and that ONE scene of super suspense (I don’t want to ruin it for you if you haven’t seen it yet) sealed the deal. And still does.

Here is my modern picks with a big heaping dose of classic inspiration to recreate Grace Kelly’s casual iconic style from the last scene. I hope you enjoy it as much as I loved creating it!

Shirt•In the Film she wears a Red button-down Oxford. I chose blue- the Ann Mashburn’s School Girl Shirt to put a new spin on it. It’s a more fitted version of a menswear classic button down. Perfect for rolling up the sleeves and tucking it in. Grace I'm sure would approve.

Jeans•Grace’s version were definitely a true indigo. I decided to go with Madewell’s Classic Straight Jeans in Cristoforo Wash: Selvedge Edition. Perfect for cuffing and adding a little down to earth.

Shoes•Penny Loafers of course. I decided to go with G.H.Bass Flat Strap Weejun’s in Brown instead of the classic Burgundy to bring out the stitching in the Jean cuff.

Accessories

Twilly•Hermès Danse Pacifique Twilly tied to the belt loop instead of Grace’s matching shirt tie. A nod to the real Grace with her love of all things Hermès.

*So, what is a Twilly anyway? A neck-tie like scarf created in the 1930s as a “little sister” version to the classic Hermès Scarf. And it can be styled in a million ways like a bracelet around the wrist, a hair tie or even on your very own Kelly bag:)

Pearls•Though in the last scene Grace wears no accessories, I did add some classic pearl earrings as a nod to her lady-like wardrobe throughout the film. Tiffany Signature Pearls.

Magazine•Last but not least in details, the 1953 Harper's Bazaar Beauty Issue that Lisa (Grace) replaces the High Himalayas travel book with after Jeff (Stewart) dozes off.

♥️

*No Affliated Links. Just for fun.

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