Temperatures drop and we begin to dream of sun-drenched vacations — the kind illustrated in the likes of grottos carved in and out of an endless mediterranean horizon. There are simply few things more superfluously pleasuring than packing to achieve that novel warm-weather style defined by thoughtful combinations of neutral linens, knit polos, cherry red ginghams and driving shirts with cream leather gloves to match. Evocative, infused with monochromatic-mystery, and poured over a nautical seaside drink of your choosing - al fresco — Iconic vacation dressing premiers itself in the timeless motion picture, The Talented Mr Ripley.
Indulging in this sort of novel execution in the modern world, perhaps while vacationing through the cliffs of Italy (no surrounding more stylish) feels nearly impossible to imitate literally, and figuratively— Here are five reasons the Riviera film turns summer-wear-looks 20 years later — and how we’ll be mimicking them closer to the equator — only this time, domestically.
1) A moment for the white button down. Never averse to sex appeal albeit always classic, GP shows us an oxford can be the perfect Apré beach “coverup.”
2) Matt Damon sports a clever combination of functionality and timeless summer layering — An elegant mix of casual and cues to "worn-in” tailored classics make a great pair for a comfortable escape.
3) Jude Law as Dickie Greenleaf shows an expertly-executed approach to monochromatic summer wear is an easy way to command clever attention. It’s an easy match for Dickie’s charismatic character.
4) Nothing more classically alluring than the high waist bikini — the kind you want to wear sailing on a wooden boat. Cue some jazz to imagine yourself in your own sublime, sun-bathing in the cliffs of Italy.
5) There is no easier way to look and feel like Summer than with an effortless combination of the flirty mid-length skirt, and an espadrille. Gwyneth Paltrow shows us time and time again — wearing understated white-silk shirts tied at the waist paired to placement skirts in prints and neutral shades — it’s a beachside win for us.
Classic and timeless in every way, the film truly makes us want to live out the dreamy American 1950s expat-to-Italy life.
“I'm going to enjoy what I've got as long as it lasts.”