9 Unforgettable Movie Hero Costumes That Define Iconic Characters
From the rugged adventurer to the time-traveling teen, these movie hero costumes have left an indelible mark on cinematic history. Their iconic designs and the performances of the actors who brought them to life have made them timeless symbols of heroism and style. Here are 9 unforgettable movie hero costumes that define iconic characters.
Indiana Jones (Harrison Ford)
Neo vs Merovingian | The Matrix Reloaded [IMAX]
Indiana Jones' rugged brown leather jacket, safari shirt, khaki pants, leather boots, and matching fedora have stood the test of time. The costume's practicality allows him to navigate treacherous situations with agility and ease. Harrison Ford's portrayal of the character further cements the costume's timeless appeal, as his charisma and charm bring Indy to life in unforgettable ways.
Harrison Ford as Indy reaching for the Holy Grail in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.
Indiana Jones uses a whip, a nod to pulp adventure serials from the 1930s and '40s, which also explains the origin of his memorable movie costume.
Indiana Jones leans his forearm on a ship in Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.
John McClane (Bruce Willis)
John McClane's white tank top is pivotal to how Bruce Willis became arguably the most important action star of the 20th century. The simple ensemble perfectly encapsulated director John McTiernan's vision for a new underdog action hero.
John McClane (Bruce Willis) standing amid rubble in Die Hard
Even the fact that McClane's tank top caused one of the original Die Hard's continuity errors only makes it more renowned.
John McClane (Bruce Willis) crawling in a vent with a lighter in Die Hard
Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox)
Marty McFly's red puffer vest paired with a white-and-black checkered shirt and denim jacket captures the quintessential '80s aesthetic. Combined with Michael J. Fox's career-making performance as the time-traveling teen, the character's costume has become a beloved symbol of '80s nostalgia and sci-fi cinema history.
Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) looks on in Back to the Future
Marty's outfit resonates with audiences for its relatable and approachable style, appealing to a wide range of viewers.
Glinda (Billie Burke) and Dorothy (Judy Garland) - The Wizard of Oz
Dorothy Gale (Judy Garland)
Dorothy Gale's blue gingham pinafore dress paired with a white blouse represents innocence, purity, and hope. Meanwhile, Dorothy's signature sparkling sequined ruby slippers add a touch of magic to the ensemble, symbolizing her journey through the whimsical land of Oz.
Trinity (Carrie Anne-Moss) and Neo (Keanu Reeves) discuss their options before engaging in a fight in The Matrix
The costume's timeless design has allowed it to transcend its original context, remaining relevant to audiences decades after its debut.
Neo (Keanu Reeves)
Neo's dark sunglasses, slicked-back hair, black boots, and long flowing trenchcoat perfectly complement The Matrix's overarching themes. Reflective of his destiny as 'The One,' Neo's all-black costume merges traditional and futuristic elements in a minimalist yet stylish aesthetic, inspiring countless imitations and homages in popular culture.
Bruce Lee as Billy Lo holding yellow nunchucks while wearing his signature yellow tracksuit in Game of Death's fight scene
Known for the epic drip of its cast, The Matrix movies ushered cyberpunk fashion into the mainstream.
Billy Lo (Bruce Lee)
Billy Lo's yellow tracksuit in Game of Death has become synonymous with the legendary martial artist and movie star, Bruce Lee. The modern tracksuit notably contrasts with the traditional garb of most martial arts, reflecting Bruce Lee's fighting philosophy.
Sean Connery as Zed in Zardoz, holding a gun and wearing his iconic red bikini
The yellow tracksuit endures as a symbol of unparalleled skill and athleticism.
Zed (Sean Connery)
Zed's red loincloth and bandolier, paired with knee-high boots and suspenders, create a striking and memorable look that immediately grabs attention. Sean Connery's portrayal of Zed adds depth and gravitas to the character, elevating the costume's impact beyond the realm of cinema, and inspiring fashion designers, artists, and creators across various disciplines - including memes.
Stacey Dash as Dionne Davenport and Alicia Silverstone as Cher Horowitz wearing their iconic outfits while walking to class in Clueless
Zardoz has gained a cult following over the years, with Zed's costume becoming a singular symbol of the film's unique visual language and philosophical themes.
Austin Powers (Mike Myers) smiles while standing in front of a colorful background in a custom image
Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone)
Cher Horowitz's yellow plaid outfit in Clueless has become synonymous with her character's confidence, sophistication, and youthful exuberance. Combined with Alicia Silverstone's bubbly portrayal of the witty Cher, Clueless has left a lasting legacy on fashion, inspiring actual runway collections and solidifying Cher's wardrobe as a touchstone for '90s nostalgia.
Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia hides behind cover while holding a blaster in A New Hope
Cher's wardrobe in Clueless is filled with plaid skirts, matching blazers, knee-high socks, and crop tops, epitomizing the preppy, upscale style of Beverly Hills teenagers in the '90s.
Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia looks at the camera in a promotional bts image for A New Hope
Austin Powers (Mike Myers)
Known for its flamboyant and retro style, Austin Powers' blue suit perfectly merges with the character's larger-than-life personality. Though the suit bears a resemblance to a James Bond outfit, it was inspired by the ostentatious look and attitude of '60s rock stars - and the same can be said of the rest of Austin's wild wardrobe.
Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia discussing plans with fellow rebels in A New Hope
Austin's blue suit has turned into a symbol of comedic genius and pop culture iconography.
Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia pulling her hood back in A New Hope
Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher)
Out of Princess Leia's costumes in Star Wars, the most iconic remains to be the long white dress in which viewers first see Carrie Fisher onscreen. Blending regal elegance and practicality, the white hooded gown Leia wears in A New Hope symbolizes her royal lineage and leadership within the Rebel Alliance.
Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia in a promotional bts image for A New Hope
Leia's original costume has proved inimitable, underscoring how Fisher and George Lucas captured lightning in the bottle by bringing Princess Leia to life.
