Film Noir Style: The Killer 1940s [Hardcover]

Film Noir Style: The Killer 1940s looks at the fashions of the femmes fatales who were so good at being bad, and the suits and trench coats of definitive noir actors such as Humphrey Bogart and Alan Ladd. Film and fashion historian Kimberly Truhler explores twenty definitive film noir titles from 1941 to 1950 and traces the evolution of popular fashion in the decade of the '40s, the impact of World War II on home-front fashion, and the influence of the film noir genre on popular fashion then and now. Meet not only the fabulous women of noir, including Betty Grable, Veronica Lake, Gene Tierney, Lauren Bacall, Barbara Stanwyck, Ava Gardner, and many others, but also the costume designers that created and recreated these famous stars as killers—and worse—through the clothes they wore.

"Film historian Kimberly Truhler approaches the noir production years in four larger chapters, as every few years a fresh style or type of women was featured. These alterations and new trends open up each chapter with valuable information, and many black-and-white pictures confirm it. Film Noir Style is a very pleasing 8.5 x 11 inches addition to any film noir library, and a visual feast for those interested in the high art of 1940s costume design." —Dr. A Ebert, Pop Culture Shelf

"In this sumptuously illustrated debut, fashion historian Truhler explores how film noir was shaped and enhanced by the role of the costume designer. Truhler provides the reader with a great understanding of how costume choices can intersect with subject matter. Upon finishing this delightful history, film fans and fashion buffs will want to go on a classic movie binge." —Publisher's Weekly

"WithFilm Noir Style, Kimberly Truhler pulls off the tricky challenge of writing to a broad audience. Her well-written book will appeal to both film school graduates and more casual fans who simply love the lolĦ