Emotions and Their Place in Fashion

Emotions and Their Place in Fashion

By: Hailey Layne

The role of feminine pain is often portrayed in movies and films, but the lack of feminine rage is notably absent. Concepts of sweetness, shyness, modesty, compassion, pain, and languor have been associated with femininity for hundreds of years, however narrow or misguided that may be. Feminine rage has been blurrily defined in many ways. It revolves around the freedom to express unrestrained anger in reaction to situations of injustice, loss, or irritation. The reduction of femininity to a handful of characteristics has limited the scope of products and activities marketed to women for centuries. As the role of women adapts and expands to better society, feminine rage has found a unique niche in film and fashion.

Since World War I, the number of women in the workforce has grown rapidly. In the year 2000, roughly 47% of the U.S. workforce was composed of women. This served as a revolution for women’s fashion as workwear expanded. It also allowed ambition and professionalism to be associated with femininity. In the same way, films like Gone Girl and Promising Young Woman allow for femininity to be uncompromised by intelligence and vengeance. The costume choices within the movies strip away traditional silhouettes and cleanliness. In a grotesque, bohemian way, freedom is encapsulated in Amy Dunne’s choice of outfits when she takes on the identity of Nancy. A baggy t-shirt and a large, fabric headband allow for a reprieve from the pressure of living up to the standard set for women in the movie. 

Regardless of attire, there is something to be said about the role of fashion in expressing emotions and characterization.

Blake Lively in A Simple Favor.

“Feminine Rage” Movie Watch List: 

9 to 5

Gone Girl

Hustlers 

I, Tonya

Promising Young Woman

A Simple Favor 

Girl, Interrupted

Jennifer’s Body 

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