Fashion

9 Sartorial Lessons From 'Sucker Punch'

When I first saw Zack Snyder's action packed movie Sucker Punch, I was amazed by the special effects, the awesome girl gang style camaraderie, and the intriguing narrative. It wasn't until later that I realized I had also fallen for the gorgeous Sucker Punch style and beauty looks with a vintage twist. Sucker Punch follows teenager Babydoll — played by the wonderful Emily Browning — who, through a series of unfortunate events, is blamed for murdering her sister and put into Lennox House for the Mentally Insane by her wicked stepfather.

I just love this movie; not only for its unrealistic, anime style action scenes and crazy cool blending of multiple movie genres, but also for its style. Filmography mise en scène aside, I love the dark color palette of the film, which sets the haunting tone of the movie. IMO, the costume choices are just awesome. This could, of course, be down to my obsession with nautical fashion and my adoration of Sailor Moon. Babydoll's attire is similar to a sailor style uniform, which is not worlds away from the Sailor Scouts' apparel.

Back to Sucker Punch, however, seeing these young women reclaim their power from the men who took it from them is undoubtedly inspiring. The ladies of Sucker Punch are trying to save themselves, and they do it all in pretty amazing style, proving along the way that their bodies are entirely their own.

1. Fake Eyelashes Are Always Fabulous

Emily Browning's character Babydoll is seen wearing fake eyelashes throughout the whole movie. Some may think it is ridiculous that Babydoll is wearing false lashes while battling steampunk soldiers and fighting off her attackers, but I think the fact that she looks flawless all of the time adds to the fantasy feel of the movie.

As someone who likes to wear false lashes when I'm performing, I can empathize with Babydoll, as it appears she wears them all of the time as her armor against the world. Maybe they, too, give her an extra boost of confidence when performing her dances.

2. Experiment With Underwear As Outerwear

Now, I'm not saying you have to go all out, almost naked to pull of the underwear as outerwear trend, but rather, give it a try. Babydoll's nude corset and hot pants come together as an outfit (rather than bedroom attire) with the addition of a skinny belt. If you fancy experimenting with this look, why not start by pairing a corset with a skirt or your favorite jeans?

3. Stop Being So Wimpy About Wearing Heels

Babydoll can fight colossal samurai giants and attempt to slay a fully grown dragon in heels, so I should really stop whining after wearing them for a couple of hours. A day in heels followed by a night out (still wearing them) is one of my ultimate fashion goals.

4. Pigtails + Headband = Chic

Pigtails are synonymous with youthfulness, innocence, and naivety, but IMO, when you throw a headband in there it instantly makes the look more mature, preppy, and chic.

5. Embellish Everything

Don't be afraid of embellishment! If someone were to tell me they were going to add a heap of sequins and gems to a sailor outfit, I would probably have laughed in their face. However, the proof is in the pudding, and embellishment can be added to almost anything to inject some luxe vibes into your outfit. Everything's better with a little sparkle!

6. Beehives Never Go Out Of Style

As Sucker Punch is set in the 1960s, there are a few beehives dotted throughout the movie. A '60s style beehive is fun yet sophisticated all at once and conjures images of iconic beehive–wearing babes such as Brigitte Bardot and Amy Winehouse.

7. Wear Glitter Anytime

There's really no reason to save a glittery beauty look for parties or the Christmas season. Wear glitter whenever you feel like it — to work, to the movies, or even when you're home alone. Glitter is a glamorizer and injects heaps of fun into your look, so you can wear it when you need an instant pick-me-up.

8. Dance-Wear Is Always On Point

Channelling your inner ballerina is super easy with the popularity of dance wear inspired fashion. A cute, wrap-over ballet cardigan or a pair of ballet pumps will add a touch of elegance to your ensemble.

9. Get Your Heavy Metal On

If you're having one of those days and you just feel like flipping the entire world the finger, then you might want to don some metal accessories. Choose from armor-esque, metallic shoulder pads, toe caps, or spiked studs to warn everyone to keep their distance while looking epically cool. I love how the girls of Sucker Punch wore armor that actually looked realistic and slightly protective rather than the overly sexualized boob armor of many fantasy movies and games.

Grab your "girl power" by the horns and wear heroine worthy clothes inspired by Sucker Punch. You have all the weapons you need; now fight!

Images: Warner Bros. Pictures; Giphy (10); MrCandyKingVIDEOS, WarnerBros.Pictures/YouTube