MoS at the Movies: The Thomas Crowne Affair

The other night MoS Charlotte and I got on the topic of stylish movies, and The Thomas Crowne Affair was at the top of both of our lists. Ever since I saw this movie in 1999 when it was out in the theater, I've been in awe of Rene Russo's smoldering performance as Catherine Banning. Banning is an insurance investigator hired to get investigate the theft of a Monet; the prime suspect is the irresistibly charming and superbly wealthy playboy Thomas Crown, who stole the painting not for the money, but for sport. The ensuing cat and mouse flirtation between the two is what makes the movie great. 

Russo was in her 40's when this was filmed and she brings something to the role that a 30-something just couldn't. If this is what 40 looks like then sign me up! 

MoS Charlotte's favorite outfit is this little number, where Banning sports a white oxford shirt underneath a black strapless dress. It's definitely out of the box and we love the sweetheart neckline.

Banning's movie wardrobe is classic, age appropriate, and sexy without going over the line...except for this see through dress! If you've seen the move then surely you remember this scene. Russo recalled that the dress was so thin and light that when crumpled up it basically fit in the palm of her hand.

Something a little less NSFW. Classic black sequins with cap sleeves and an asian-inspired neckline.

Russo's character makes great use of fur collars to add a sense of mature luxury to her outfits. While the colors of her wardrobe are mostly neutrals- camel, gray, black, white- the fur adds some elegant texture to the mix.

I love this dressy fur collar she wears in one of the later scenes. 

I can never resist a good turtleneck- slight cowl please- and when I saw this movie I went out and bought a white chunky turtleneck like this! It looks so fresh yet cozy.

This screen grab doesn't do much for her silhouette but trust me, this outfit is perfect. 

Another thing we can learn from the movie is the importance of a good blow-out. Banning's hair always looks perfect- not too prim, yet with a defined style. 

Again, a simple outfit but the multi-strand pearl necklace sets it apart.

In a few scenes, Banning sports camel-colored jackets and sweaters. Camel can't not be luxurious, but when used in a well-cut, undoubtedly expensive jacket, it just sings. 

I suppose this movie had to be spot-on in the style stakes since the original Thomas Crowne and Catherine Banning had quite an impeccable wardrobe.  I am somewhat embarrassed to say I've never seen the original version with Faye Dunway and Steve McQueen.

Of course, reliving this movie makes me want to watch it all over again. These screen shots don't do half as much for the clothes as the actual film does. You really have to see the movie to appreciate the style. 

Do you have any favorite movies that you think epitomize "modern style"?