Beyond the Best Dressed: A Cultural History of the Most Glamorous, Radical, and Scandalous Oscar Fashion

23,20 $

Dive into the dazzling and often subversive world of Oscar fashion with Esther Zuckerman’s *Beyond the Best Dressed*. More than just a red carpet recap, this insightful book, featuring charming illustrations by Montana Forbes, dissects 25 iconic looks, revealing the hidden stories and cultural impact stitched into each gown (and the occasional tuxedo!). Zuckerman, a respected film and culture critic, goes beyond surface-level glamour, exploring how choices like Hattie McDaniel’s groundbreaking attire in 1940 and Sharon Stone’s rebellious Gap tee reflected seismic shifts in society, challenged conventions, and sparked essential conversations. Expect witty analysis, historical context, and a fresh perspective on how clothing can be a potent form of expression, making this a must-read for fashion lovers, film buffs, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of style and culture. Published by Running Press in 2022, this hardcover edition is a stylish and thought-provoking addition to any bookshelf.

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Explore two dozen of the most glamorous, scandalous, and history-making Oscar looks in Beyond the Best Dressed, film and culture critic Esther Zuckerman’s personality-filled romp through red carpet fashion, complete with original fashion drawings from illustrator Montana Forbes.

From the show-stoppingly elegant (Halle Berry winning the award for Monsters Ball in a breathtaking Elie Saab) to the decidedly kooky (Adam Rippon in a formal harness), the Academy Awards Telecast is one of the few nights of the year devoted entirely to glamor (in all its forms). Even in the age of streaming, millions upon millions of people sit down at the same time, turn on their televisions, and watch celebrities strut down the red carpet (and, sure, win some awards). Now fans can relive the glamor, drama, and lasting legacy of some of the most influential outfits from more than ninety years of the Oscar in Beyond the Best Dressed: A Cultural History of the Most Glamorous, Radical, and Scandalous Oscar Fashion. In twenty-five essays, culture writer Esther Zuckerman explores the iconic fashion choices that made history on the most elegant stage of all, and analyzes the cultural impact of wardrobe decisions both absurd and wonderful. Beginning with Hattie McDaniels historic and trendsetting turquoise gown in 1940 (worn at a table segregated from her white agent), Zuckerman goes beyond the best of lists to shine a deserved spotlight on the truly unforgettable outfitsand deciphers what those outfits represented.

Beyond the Best Dressed is a first-of-its-kind commemoration of Oscar fashion that perfectly captures the glitz and the glamor for anyone who has ever been to an Oscar watch party (or texted their friends while they watched alone). Fully illustrated with whimsical fashion drawings of the outfitsincluding Michelle Williams’ golden Versace, Sharon Stone’s iconic Gap t-shirt, and Rita Moreno’s groundbreaking dress worn in both 1962 and 2018this book is a joyful and vivid odyssey that doesnt stop at the hem of the dress, delving deeper into the cultural effect of these fashion flash points with research and original reporting.

Step into the dazzling world of red carpet fashion with *Beyond the Best Dressed: A Cultural History of the Most Glamorous, Radical, and Scandalous Oscar Fashion* by film and culture critic Esther Zuckerman. This isn't your typical "best dressed" list; Zuckerman delves deep into the cultural significance and lasting impact of iconic Oscar looks, transforming a celebration of style into a compelling exploration of history, society, and self-expression. Illustrated with original and stylish drawings by Montana Forbes, *Beyond the Best Dressed* meticulously examines twenty-five unforgettable outfits spanning over ninety years of Academy Awards history. Zuckerman goes beyond surface-level aesthetics, revealing the stories behind the gowns (and the occasional harness!), uncovering the often-controversial and always-captivating narratives they tell. From Hattie McDaniel's groundbreaking 1940 turquoise gown, a symbol of both achievement and segregation, to more recent showstoppers like Halle Berry's Elie Saab triumph and Adam Rippon's memorable formal harness, each chapter explores how fashion choices on the red carpet reflect and shape our cultural landscape. Zuckerman expertly connects these sartorial moments to broader themes of race, gender, politics, and the evolving definition of glamour itself. *Beyond the Best Dressed* doesn't shy away from the scandalous or the radical. It celebrates the bold choices that challenged conventions, sparked conversations, and left an indelible mark on the collective consciousness. You'll rediscover iconic moments like Sharon Stone's unexpected Gap t-shirt, a daring statement that redefined red carpet expectations, and Rita Moreno's conscious re-wearing of her 1962 gown in 2018, a powerful message of sustainability and timeless elegance. Esther Zuckerman, a seasoned film and culture critic, brings a sharp eye and a witty voice to this unique cultural history. Her insightful analysis is enriched by thorough research and original reporting, offering fresh perspectives on familiar moments and revealing untold stories. More than just a fashion book, *Beyond the Best Dressed* is a thought-provoking exploration of how clothing can be a powerful form of communication, a reflection of our values, and a catalyst for change. Published by Running Press Adult in 2022, this hardcover edition boasts 240 pages of captivating storytelling, making it the perfect gift for fashion enthusiasts, film buffs, and anyone who appreciates the power of visual storytelling. Relive the glamour, the drama, and the enduring legacy of Oscar fashion with *Beyond the Best Dressed*, and discover a new way to appreciate the artistry and cultural significance of the red carpet. It's more than just clothes; it's history in the making.
Additional information
Authors

Binding

Condition

ISBN-10

0762475501

ISBN-13

9780762475506

Language

Pages

240

Publisher

Year published

Weight

420

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