Fashioning James Bond: Costume, Gender and Identity in the World of 007

The book "Fashioning James Bond" is the first to explore the costumes and fashions of the James Bond movie franchise, analyzing how they reflect the development of gender and identity, evoke the desire for an aspirational lifestyle, and contribute to the critical literature surrounding film, fashion, gender, and James Bond.

Format: Hardback
Length: 336 pages
Publication date: 21 October 2021
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

Fashioning James Bond is a groundbreaking book that delves into the costumes and fashions of the iconic James Bond movie franchise,spanning from the debut of Sean Connery in Dr. No in 1962 to the latest installment,Spectre, released in 2015. Authored by Llewella Chapman, this comprehensive work draws upon original archival research, in-depth analysis of the costumes and fashion brands featured in the Bond films, insightful interviews with families of tailors and shirt-makers who contributed to creating the distinctive "look of James Bond," and a thoughtful exploration of marketing strategies employed to promote the aspirational "James Bond lifestyle."

Chapman approaches each Bond film individually, questioning the significance of costumes in analyzing and evaluating the franchise. She explores how costumes not only shape the development of gender and identity within the James Bond universe but also evoke a sense of desire in audiences to embrace the fashions showcased on screen. Through her research, Chapman delves into the agency of the costume department, director, producer, and actor in shaping the appearance and characterization of James Bond, his villains, Bond girls, and henchmen.

In addition to examining the costumes themselves, Chapman analyzes trends and their impact on the Bond films. She explores how different costume designers have approached costuming these iconic characters, showcasing their individual creative visions. From the initial conception of a novel to the finalization of a screenplay and the transformation onto the screen, Chapman sheds light on the intricate process of designing and developing the costumes that bring the world of 007 to life.

By examining the intersection of film, fashion, gender, and James Bond, Fashioning James Bond makes a significant contribution to the emerging critical literature surrounding these interconnected areas. This book offers valuable insights into the enduring the cultural significance of the Bond franchise, the evolution of fashion trends over time, and the complex interplay between gender, identity, and popular culture. Whether you are a fan of James Bond, a scholar of film and fashion, or simply interested in the intersection of these disciplines, Fashioning James Bond is a must-read that will deepen your understanding and appreciation of this iconic cinematic series.

Weight: 678g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350145481