Unzipping Power: The Influence of Suits on Character and Story Arc
Image: https://unsplash.com/photos/man-in-black-suit-jacket-RFhq0SrrgEg
How we present ourselves to the world holds great power, whether in daily life or on the big screen. In reality, as well as in reel, fashion has played an influential role in defining character personalities and plot progression. This article delves into 'dressed for success', specifically focusing on the impact that suits have on characters and plots in film and television.
In this frame of reference, a suit is not just an assembly of fabric held together by stitching; it's a statement, a collection of cues signifying identity, status, and intent of a person. Just like an avid player selecting banners for online blackjack, dashing onto a game with precision, the impact of character attire is calculative and precise. The strategic selection of wardrobe foliage can expertly display their holder’s confidence, their place in the business world, or any dilemmas they are facing.
The Suit as a Statement
Much like an exquisitely dealt hand in online blackjack, a well-tailored suit immediately draws attention. Its significance crosses cultural boundaries - universally recognized as a symbol of power, prosperity, and professionalism. As the protagonist dons the suit, they adopt these qualities, establishing them within the narrative hierarchy. For example, consider Harvey Specter from the television series "Suits". His high-end designer suits underline his position as a top New York City lawyer, conveying an enduring image of sleek dominance.
Suit Variations and Their Impact
The sheer diversity of suit designs allows costumers to visually narrate a character's evolution, much like variations of card combinations alter the trajectory in a game of online blackjack. This shift may indicate a personal growth, a change in socio-economic status, or often is the manifestation of character development throughout the storyline. Danny Ocean’s transition from prison garb to a suave suit in "Ocean's Eleven" symbolizes his return to the world of high-stake heists.
Negotiation Power of a Suit
As seen in countless films and TV shows, suits are pivotal elements during negotiation scenes. Thriving in the boardroom or power-lunch scenarios, the aesthetic choice of suiting up helps characters gain an upper hand. In such moments when confidence is key, a well-fitted suit exudes both charisma and capability highlighting their importance within the narrative buildup. The political drama series "House of Cards" perfectly uses this principle with its lead character, Frank Underwood.
Fashion Evolution: Suits Reflecting Time and Setting
Mad Men: Set in the 1960s, Don Draper's ever immaculate yet contemporary collection of suits underscored not just his personal charm but also mirrored the style of the period.
The Great Gatsby: Filled with extravagant suits signifying unbounded wealth and decadence, Jay Gatsby's attire is as important a character as anyone else in the film, reflecting the Jazz Age setting vividly.
Casino Royale: James Bond's modern monochrome fitted-suit feels perfectly at home in the elegant casino surroundings while mirroring his suaveness and toughness simultaneously.
Pioneering Women: Power Dressing Era
The late 20th century introduced women into the business world, and with it came the emergence of the power suit. Pioneers like Diane Keaton in Annie Hall led the way presenting the female suit as a symbol of equality, professional competence, and personal style empowerment. This fashion evolution reiterated the importance of suits in character development, shifting perceptions and fiercely challenging stereotypes.
In Miriam Maisel's character from "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel", we see an interesting flip where her precisely coordinated outfits reflect her comedic precision, contradicting the bleak outlook of her personal life expressively turned around laughter and wit.
The Suit: An On-screen Vehicle for Transformation
From Clark Kent’s transition to Superman or Bruce Wayne becoming Batman, the suit forms an important part of their alter-ego transformation. The suit becomes not just a costume, but a literal embodiment of transformation.
Without a doubt, the influence that comes with a well-tailored suit is undeniable; it's impression stretches far beyond merely being a choice of clothing. It is an essential tool within film and television narratives, establishing roles, defining characters, staging transformations and appropriately reflecting the time and setting in which they exist.
