by Lois Geal
The first time we saw The Notebook, we were left in a teary mess, captivated by the epic love story between two steamy stars.
But in the eleven years since the film first captured our hearts, we've had time to watch it over (and over) again. And what really sticks with us - besides the emotional rollercoaster, of course - are Allie's gorgeous vintage-inspired outfits.
Both Noah and Allie’s style is exceptional, but the starring role, however, goes to leading lady Allie Hamilton’s 1940s fashion - the wardrobe department, led by Karyn Wagner, truly excelled themselves.
From the iconic blue dress to her adorable swimsuits, the '40s-era looks somehow still have modern appeal. And with the news that the film was to be adapted for TV but unfortunately never proceeded, we had hoped for even more retro fashion inspiration to look forward to.
This era is defined by playsuits, high-waisted shorts, polka dots, and other fashionable items. It was a time when pin-up girls truly emerged and became iconic. Allie’s (Rachel McAdams) style is all about bright red lipstick, cute playsuits, and curly hair - a perfect combination, if you ask me!
Once again, as in Pride & Prejudice, the cinematography in The Notebook is breathtaking.
The film, based on the novel by Nicholas Sparks, takes the viewer on a whirlwind of emotions as they follow the lives of two lovebirds, Noah and Allie. The story is set in the 1940s, an excellent era for fashion.
Inspiration can be drawn from many aspects of this movie, such as the natural landscapes of South Carolina or Allie’s paintings.
However, nothing compares to Allie and her wardrobe. Her look is feminine, proper, and polished, yet her quirkiness also shines through.
We meet our star-crossed lovers on 4th June 1940, more specifically, at the carnival in Seabrook, South Carolina.
Southern belle Allie Hamilton and local boy Noah Calhoun first cross paths during a tumultuous ride on a Ferris wheel. Noah is drawn to Allie, perhaps by her boldly coloured shirtwaister dresses and cotton knit cardigan combinations.
Button-down dresses and playsuits dominate the early 1940s look, and many people can still take inspiration from Allie’s style today - perfect for bike rides, jumping in lakes, or even playfully squishing ice creams into lovers’ faces.
Summer love blossoms after a date night at the pictures, featuring yet another tea dress and cardigan combo, leading to the iconic dancing-in-the-street scene.
The red-and-white colour motif continues throughout the ‘summer love’ section of the film - the styling and accessorising alone deserved an Oscar.
Allie’s hair is set majestically in classic 1940s styles, with pin curls and victory rolls, complemented beautifully by pearl jewellery and suede ankle-strap shoes. A lipstick in the most perfect shade of orangey red completes the look, making it pop.
Three years go by, and fashion evolves. Allie’s style changes too, as a Rita Hayworth, Veronica Lake starlet look replaces the 1940s fashion we originally fell in love with. Her hair becomes bigger, her makeup bolder, and statement hair flowers and veiled millinery accessorise designer gowns and formal skirt suits. Bicycle rides are replaced by horse riding, and dancing in the street gives way to glamorous nights at clubs with full big bands.
Perhaps the most famous dress in the movie is the pale blue, Nehru-collared, button-down wiggle dress - arguably an impractical choice for a rowing boat trip. Nipped at an impossibly tiny waist, with contrasting covered buttons and turn-back sleeves, it marks a more mature evolution of Allie’s style.
The Notebook, even years later, remains a classic story for hopeless romantics and a beautiful source of style inspiration for lovers of old-school fashion, as well as those who prioritise comfort over aesthetics.