Inspiration: Black Book

Last night I finally got around to watching the Paul Verhoven movie Black Book, which I had on loan from Netflix for about 2 months. While I thought the movie was very good and conveyed the difficulties and complexities of war, I kept getting distracted by Carice Van Houten's wardrobe. My thoughts during the movie went something like this: "War is awful... How did she get that great coat in wartime Holland?"

Now all I can think about is how I should dress more like a 1940's pin-up, without looking like I just stepped off a stage production of Anything Goes. I've been scouring the internet all day just to find some modern day versions of the outfits she wears.



It should be mentioned that no matter what she has been through (bombings, prison, attempted murder) her make up always looks dewy and perfect.




This look says, "I may be captured by the SS, but I still look fabulous." Seriously, wartime Holland must have had a fantastic black market.


Try as I might I could only find these two pictures of this great outfit she wears towards the end of the movie. It's a nice fitted leather jacket, with a striped button down and wide legged pants. Something like Katherine Hepburn might wear. So lovely.





Get the look:

Anna Sui Abstract Zinnia Romper

Yes, a romper. I'm still obsessed.

DKNY Black Skirt Bottom Overcoat


Borderlines Red Handkerchief Scarf


Tom Nguyen Black and White Lace Cami Dress


Nicole Miller Silk V-Neck Halter Gown


Mike and Chris Kellen Leather Jacket


Gap Wide Legged Sailor Pants


Gap Striped Fitted Shirt


And as always there are scores of vintage patterns you can use to get the look too.