Unveiling The Glamour: Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra Costumes Legacy

Miss Grace Gerlach DVM 18 May 2025

Ever wondered how much influence a costume can have on a film's legacy? Elizabeth Taylor's costumes in the 1963 film Cleopatra weren't just clothes; they were pivotal in defining the movie's epic grandeur and setting a gold standard for cinematic fashion.

Elizabeth Taylor's costumes in the 1963 film Cleopatra are widely recognized as some of the most iconic and elaborate costumes in film history. Designed by Irene Sharaff, the costumes were inspired by ancient Egyptian art and architecture, and they helped to create a visually stunning and immersive experience for audiences. The sheer scale of the production, coupled with the exquisite detail lavished upon each garment, helped cement Cleopatra as a landmark achievement in costume design, influencing countless designers and productions in the decades that followed. These costumes were not mere accessories but integral components that elevated the film to legendary status. The impact resonates even today, underscoring their importance in shaping the visual language of historical epics. They are more than just relics of a bygone era; they are a masterclass in how costume design can be a powerful storytelling tool.

The costumes were made from a variety of luxurious fabrics, including silk, velvet, and chiffon, and they were adorned with intricate beading, embroidery, and gold jewelry. Taylor's costumes were also designed to be both visually appealing and historically accurate, and they helped to bring the character of Cleopatra to life on the big screen. Each piece was meticulously crafted to reflect the opulence and sophistication associated with the Queen of Egypt, reinforcing her power and allure. The attention to detail extended beyond the fabrics themselves, encompassing the cut, fit, and overall design of each ensemble. The aim was to create costumes that not only looked stunning but also felt authentic to the period, thereby immersing audiences in the world of ancient Egypt. Its a testament to the vision and skill of Irene Sharaff that these costumes continue to captivate and inspire.

Elizabeth Taylor's costumes in Cleopatra had a profound impact on the film's success. They helped to create a sense of authenticity and grandeur, and they contributed to the film's overall visual appeal. The costumes also helped to establish Taylor as a major fashion icon, and they continue to be admired and imitated by designers and fashion enthusiasts today. The film's visual vocabulary, heavily influenced by Sharaff's designs, set a new benchmark for cinematic aesthetics. Taylor, already a star, was catapulted into the stratosphere of style icons, her image inextricably linked to the opulence of Cleopatra. The costumes became a symbol of both the film's ambition and Taylor's star power, solidifying their place in popular culture. This influence is still felt in fashion runways and film productions, highlighting the lasting legacy of these remarkable creations.

Personal details of Elizabeth Taylor

Attribute	Details
Name	Elizabeth Taylor
Born	February 27, 1932, London, England
Died	March 23, 2011, Los Angeles, California, USA
Occupation	Actress, businesswoman, and humanitarian
Years Active	19422003
Spouses	Conrad Hilton Jr. (m. 1950; div. 1951), Michael Wilding (m. 1952; div. 1957), Mike Todd (m. 1957; died 1958), Eddie Fisher (m. 1959; div. 1964), Richard Burton (m. 1964; div. 1974; m. 1975; div. 1976), John Warner (m. 1976; div. 1982), Larry Fortensky (m. 1991; div. 1996)
Awards	Two Academy Awards for Best Actress (Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?, BUtterfield 8), Golden Globe Awards, BAFTA Awards, and numerous other accolades.
Notable Roles	National Velvet, A Place in the Sun, Giant, Cat on a Hot Tin Roof, Cleopatra, Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Philanthropy	Significant contributions to HIV/AIDS research and awareness, founding the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF).
Reference	The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation

Main article topics

The design and construction of Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes
The historical accuracy of the costumes
The impact of the costumes on the film's success
Elizabeth Taylor's personal style and how it influenced the design of the costumes
The legacy of the costumes and their continued influence on fashion and film

Elizabeth Taylor's costumes in the 1963 film Cleopatra are widely recognized as some of the most iconic and elaborate costumes in film history. Designed by Irene Sharaff, the costumes were inspired by ancient Egyptian art and architecture, and they helped to create a visually stunning and immersive experience for audiences. The scale and detail of these costumes remain unparalleled, contributing significantly to the film's legendary status and influence on subsequent productions. Their impact goes beyond mere aesthetics, underscoring the power of costume design in shaping the visual narrative of a film. Sharaff's masterful creations are a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that defined Hollywood's Golden Age.

Luxurious: The costumes were made from a variety of luxurious fabrics, including silk, velvet, and chiffon.
Ornate: The costumes were adorned with intricate beading, embroidery, and gold jewelry.
Authentic: The costumes were designed to be both visually appealing and historically accurate.
Iconic: The costumes have become some of the most iconic and recognizable costumes in film history.
Influential: The costumes have had a profound influence on fashion and film.
Legacy: The costumes continue to be admired and imitated by designers and fashion enthusiasts today.

Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were a major factor in the film's success. They helped to create a sense of authenticity and grandeur, and they contributed to the film's overall visual appeal. The costumes also helped to establish Taylor as a major fashion icon, and they continue to be admired and imitated by designers and fashion enthusiasts today. The film's impact on fashion and cinematic design can be directly attributed to the costumes' exceptional quality and visual appeal. They not only enhanced Taylor's performance but also set a new standard for period-accurate and visually stunning costume design. This enduring legacy ensures that the costumes continue to inspire and influence artists and designers worldwide.

The luxurious fabrics used in Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were a key factor in their iconic status. The rich textures and vibrant colors of the fabrics helped to create a sense of opulence and grandeur, befitting the character of Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt. The use of luxurious fabrics also helped to convey the film's historical setting, as these fabrics were commonly used by the wealthy and powerful in ancient Egypt. The choice of materials was crucial in creating the desired visual impact, reflecting the wealth and power associated with the Egyptian monarchy. The meticulous selection and application of these fabrics contributed to the overall authenticity and immersive quality of the film. The impact of these luxurious materials on the costumes' legacy cannot be overstated, as they continue to be a source of inspiration for designers and fashion enthusiasts.

The use of luxurious fabrics in the costumes also had a practical significance. The heavy fabrics helped to protect the actors from the harsh desert conditions during filming, and the rich colors helped to create a visually stunning and immersive experience for audiences. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these fabrics provided a layer of protection for the actors during the demanding production schedule. The vibrant colors, carefully chosen to evoke the splendor of ancient Egypt, enhanced the film's visual impact and contributed to its immersive quality. This combination of practicality and visual appeal highlights the meticulous planning and attention to detail that went into the costume design.

In conclusion, the use of luxurious fabrics in Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes was a key factor in their iconic status. The fabrics helped to create a sense of opulence and grandeur, convey the film's historical setting, and protect the actors from the harsh desert conditions during filming. The careful selection and application of these materials elevated the costumes beyond mere garments, transforming them into works of art that continue to inspire and captivate audiences. Their influence is evident in countless fashion designs and cinematic productions, underscoring their lasting legacy.

The ornate embellishments on Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were a key factor in their iconic status. The intricate beading, embroidery, and gold jewelry helped to create a sense of opulence and grandeur, befitting the character of Cleopatra, the Queen of Egypt. The use of ornate embellishments also helped to convey the film's historical setting, as these embellishments were commonly used by the wealthy and powerful in ancient Egypt. Each bead, stitch, and piece of jewelry was meticulously chosen and applied to enhance the visual impact and historical accuracy of the costumes. These details were not merely decorative but integral to the overall design, reflecting the wealth, power, and sophistication associated with Cleopatra and her era.

Facet 1: Symbolism and Meaning
The ornate embellishments on Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were not merely decorative; they also carried symbolic meaning. The beading, for example, was often used to create intricate patterns that represented Egyptian hieroglyphs. The embroidery and gold jewelry were also used to represent the wealth and power of the Egyptian monarchy. These symbolic elements added depth and complexity to the costumes, transforming them into visual narratives that reflected the cultural and historical context of the film. The use of hieroglyphs and other Egyptian motifs reinforced the authenticity and immersive quality of the costumes, enhancing their impact on audiences.
Facet 2: Historical Accuracy
The ornate embellishments on Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were also historically accurate. Archaeological evidence suggests that the ancient Egyptians used a variety of beads, embroidery, and gold jewelry to adorn their clothing. The use of these embellishments helped to create a sense of authenticity in the film. Costume designer Irene Sharaff conducted extensive research to ensure that the costumes accurately reflected the fashion and adornments of ancient Egypt. This commitment to historical accuracy added credibility to the film and enhanced its overall visual appeal. The use of authentic materials and techniques further contributed to the costumes' iconic status.
Facet 3: Visual Impact
The ornate embellishments on Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes had a significant visual impact. The beading, embroidery, and gold jewelry helped to create a visually stunning and immersive experience for audiences. The costumes were so elaborate that they often overshadowed Taylor herself, but they also helped to create a memorable and iconic image of Cleopatra. The dazzling array of embellishments captured the light and drew the eye, creating a sense of opulence and grandeur. These visual elements were crucial in establishing Cleopatra as a powerful and alluring figure, enhancing Taylor's performance and solidifying the costumes' place in film history.
Facet 4: Cultural Significance
The ornate embellishments on Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes have had a lasting cultural significance. The costumes have been featured in numerous exhibitions and publications, and they have inspired countless designers and fashion enthusiasts. The costumes have also helped to shape our understanding of ancient Egyptian culture and fashion. Their influence is evident in contemporary fashion designs, film productions, and art exhibitions, highlighting their enduring appeal and cultural impact. The costumes have become synonymous with the glamour and opulence of Hollywood's Golden Age, continuing to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

In conclusion, the ornate embellishments on Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were a key factor in their iconic status. The embellishments were not merely decorative; they also carried symbolic meaning, conveyed historical accuracy, and had a significant visual impact. The costumes have had a lasting cultural significance, inspiring designers and fashion enthusiasts for generations. Their meticulous craftsmanship, historical accuracy, and visual appeal have cemented their place in film history, ensuring that they continue to be admired and celebrated.

Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were designed to be both visually appealing and historically accurate. This was a challenging task, as the film's setting was ancient Egypt, a time period for which there is relatively little surviving visual evidence. However, costume designer Irene Sharaff was able to create costumes that were both visually stunning and historically accurate, drawing inspiration from a variety of sources, including ancient Egyptian art, architecture, and sculpture. Sharaff's dedication to research and attention to detail resulted in costumes that not only looked beautiful but also reflected the cultural and historical context of ancient Egypt. Her ability to balance visual appeal with historical accuracy is a testament to her skill and artistry.

Facet 1: Ancient Egyptian Art and Architecture
Sharaff studied ancient Egyptian art and architecture to get a sense of the styles and motifs that were popular during Cleopatra's time. She incorporated many of these elements into her designs, such as the use of lotus flowers, scarabs, and hieroglyphs. These motifs were not merely decorative but carried symbolic meaning, reflecting the religious and cultural beliefs of ancient Egypt. The integration of these elements into the costumes enhanced their authenticity and visual impact. The use of ancient Egyptian art and architecture as a source of inspiration highlights Sharaff's commitment to historical accuracy.
Facet 2: Ancient Egyptian Sculpture
Sharaff also studied ancient Egyptian sculpture to get a sense of the human form and how it was depicted in art. This helped her to create costumes that were both flattering and historically accurate. The sculptures provided valuable insights into the clothing styles and adornments worn by ancient Egyptians. Sharaff used this knowledge to create costumes that accentuated Taylor's figure while remaining true to the historical period. The careful consideration of the human form and its depiction in ancient Egyptian art is a testament to Sharaff's attention to detail.
Facet 3: Color and Fabric
Sharaff used a variety of colors and fabrics in her designs, but she always kept in mind the historical context of the film. For example, she used rich colors such as gold, blue, and green, which were popular in ancient Egypt. She also used luxurious fabrics such as silk and velvet, which were worn by the wealthy and powerful. The choice of colors and fabrics was crucial in creating a sense of opulence and grandeur, befitting the character of Cleopatra. Sharaff's careful selection of materials and colors enhanced the visual appeal and historical accuracy of the costumes.
Facet 4: Authenticity and Visual Appeal
Sharaff's goal was to create costumes that were both authentic and visually appealing. She succeeded in this goal, creating costumes that were both historically accurate and visually stunning. Her work helped to bring the character of Cleopatra to life on the big screen, and her costumes continue to be admired and imitated by designers and fashion enthusiasts today. Sharaff's ability to balance authenticity with visual appeal is a testament to her skill and artistry. Her costumes not only enhanced Taylor's performance but also set a new standard for costume design in historical films.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were a masterpiece of historical accuracy and visual appeal. Sharaff's careful research and attention to detail resulted in costumes that were both authentic and visually stunning. These costumes helped to bring the character of Cleopatra to life on the big screen, and they continue to be admired and imitated by designers and fashion enthusiasts today. Their enduring legacy is a testament to the power of costume design in shaping the visual narrative of a film.

Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes have become some of the most iconic and recognizable costumes in film history. This is due to a number of factors, including their historical accuracy, their visual appeal, and their association with one of the most famous actresses of all time. The combination of these elements has elevated the costumes beyond mere garments, transforming them into cultural symbols that continue to inspire and captivate audiences. Their influence is evident in fashion designs, film productions, and art exhibitions worldwide.

Facet 1: Historical Accuracy
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were designed to be historically accurate, and this has contributed to their iconic status. The costumes were based on extensive research of ancient Egyptian art and architecture, and they accurately reflect the styles and motifs of the time period. This attention to detail has made the costumes a valuable resource for historians and Egyptologists. The meticulous research and accurate representation of ancient Egyptian fashion have enhanced the costumes' credibility and enduring appeal. Their historical accuracy has made them a valuable reference point for scholars and designers alike.
Facet 2: Visual Appeal
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes are also visually appealing. The costumes are made from luxurious fabrics and adorned with intricate beading and embroidery. They are also designed to be flattering to Taylor's figure, and they help to create a memorable and iconic image of Cleopatra. The combination of opulent fabrics, intricate embellishments, and flattering designs has created a visually stunning effect that has captivated audiences for generations. The costumes' visual appeal has contributed significantly to their iconic status.
Facet 3: Association with Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor was one of the most famous and glamorous actresses of her time, and her association with the Cleopatra costumes has helped to make them iconic. Taylor's performance in the film is considered to be one of her best, and her costumes have become synonymous with the character of Cleopatra. Taylor's star power and association with the costumes have elevated them to legendary status. Her performance in the film, combined with the costumes' visual appeal and historical accuracy, has created an unforgettable image of Cleopatra.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes have become iconic due to their historical accuracy, their visual appeal, and their association with one of the most famous actresses of all time. The costumes are a valuable resource for historians and Egyptologists, and they continue to be admired and imitated by designers and fashion enthusiasts today. Their enduring legacy is a testament to the power of costume design in shaping the visual narrative of a film.

Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes have had a profound influence on fashion and film. The costumes have been imitated and referenced by designers and filmmakers for decades, and they continue to inspire new generations of artists. Their impact is evident in contemporary fashion designs, film productions, and art exhibitions worldwide. The costumes have become synonymous with the glamour and opulence of Hollywood's Golden Age.

Facet 1: Fashion
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes have had a major impact on fashion. The costumes' opulent fabrics and intricate embellishments have been imitated by designers for decades. For example, the gold lame dress that Taylor wears in the film's iconic opening scene has been copied by numerous designers, including Yves Saint Laurent and Versace. The influence of the costumes on fashion is undeniable, with designers consistently drawing inspiration from their luxurious fabrics, intricate embellishments, and flattering designs. The gold lame dress, in particular, has become a symbol of glamour and opulence, inspiring countless interpretations and reinterpretations.
Facet 2: Film
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes have also had a major impact on film. The costumes' historical accuracy and visual appeal have made them a popular choice for filmmakers who want to create a sense of authenticity and grandeur in their films. For example, the costumes worn by Angelina Jolie in the 2005 film Alexander were heavily influenced by Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes. The costumes' influence on film is evident in the numerous productions that have drawn inspiration from their historical accuracy and visual appeal. Filmmakers often look to the Cleopatra costumes as a benchmark for costume design in historical epics.
Facet 3: Cultural Impact
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes have had a significant cultural impact. The costumes have helped to shape our understanding of ancient Egypt, and they have inspired countless works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and films. The costumes have also been used to promote tourism to Egypt, and they have helped to raise awareness of ancient Egyptian culture. Their cultural impact extends beyond the realm of fashion and film, influencing our understanding of ancient Egypt and inspiring countless works of art. The costumes have become a symbol of the glamour and opulence of Hollywood's Golden Age, continuing to captivate and inspire audiences worldwide.

In conclusion, Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes have had a profound influence on fashion, film, and culture. The costumes are a testament to the power of costume design, and they continue to inspire artists and audiences today. Their enduring legacy is a testament to their historical accuracy, visual appeal, and association with one of the most famous actresses of all time.

The legacy of Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes is undeniable. The costumes continue to be admired and imitated by designers and fashion enthusiasts today. This is due to a number of factors, including their historical accuracy, their visual appeal, and their association with one of the most famous actresses of all time. The combination of these elements has elevated the costumes beyond mere garments, transforming them into cultural symbols that continue to inspire and captivate audiences.

Facet 1: Historical Accuracy
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were designed to be historically accurate, and this has contributed to their enduring legacy. The costumes were based on extensive research of ancient Egyptian art and architecture, and they accurately reflect the styles and motifs of the time period. This attention to detail has made the costumes a valuable resource for historians and Egyptologists, and it has also ensured that the costumes remain relevant and admired today. The meticulous research and accurate representation of ancient Egyptian fashion have enhanced the costumes' credibility and enduring appeal. Their historical accuracy has made them a valuable reference point for scholars and designers alike.
Facet 2: Visual Appeal
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes are also visually appealing. The costumes are made from luxurious fabrics and adorned with intricate beading and embroidery. They are also designed to be flattering to Taylor's figure, and they help to create a memorable and iconic image of Cleopatra. The combination of opulent fabrics, intricate embellishments, and flattering designs has created a visually stunning effect that has captivated audiences for generations. The costumes' visual appeal has contributed significantly to their enduring legacy.
Facet 3: Association with Elizabeth Taylor
Elizabeth Taylor was one of the most famous and glamorous actresses of her time, and her association with the Cleopatra costumes has helped to ensure their legacy. Taylor's performance in the film is considered to be one of her best, and her costumes have become synonymous with the character of Cleopatra. Taylor's star power and association with the costumes have elevated them to legendary status. Her performance in the film, combined with the costumes' visual appeal and historical accuracy, has created an unforgettable image of Cleopatra.

In conclusion, the legacy of Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes is secure. The costumes are a testament to the power of costume design, and they continue to inspire artists and audiences today. The costumes' historical accuracy, visual appeal, and association with Elizabeth Taylor have all contributed to their enduring legacy. Their influence is evident in contemporary fashion designs, film productions, and art exhibitions worldwide.

Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes are some of the most iconic and recognizable costumes in film history. They have been the subject of much discussion and debate over the years, and there are many common questions and misconceptions about them. Addressing these questions can provide a deeper understanding of the costumes' design, construction, and cultural impact.

Question 1: Were Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes historically accurate?

Yes, Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were designed to be historically accurate. Costume designer Irene Sharaff conducted extensive research on ancient Egyptian art and architecture to ensure that the costumes were authentic. Sharaff's commitment to historical accuracy is evident in the costumes' design, materials, and embellishments.

Question 2: Were Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes comfortable?

No, Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were not comfortable. They were made from heavy fabrics and adorned with intricate beading and embroidery, which made them very hot and uncomfortable to wear. Taylor often complained about the costumes, and she even fainted on set on one occasion due to the heat. The costumes' weight and construction made them challenging to wear, but their visual impact and historical accuracy outweighed the discomfort.

Question 3: How much did Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes cost?

The total cost of Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes is not known for certain, but it is estimated that they cost around $500,000. This was a very large sum of money at the time, and it is a testament to the film's lavish production values. The high cost of the costumes reflects the quality of the materials, the intricacy of the designs, and the expertise of the artisans who created them.

Question 4: Who designed Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes?

Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were designed by Irene Sharaff. Sharaff was a renowned costume designer who won two Academy Awards for her work on the films "An American in Paris" and "West Side Story." Her expertise and artistry were instrumental in creating the iconic Cleopatra costumes.

Question 5: Where are Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes now?

Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes are now housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. The costumes are on display in the museum's Fashion and Textiles Gallery. The Victoria and Albert Museum is a fitting home for these iconic costumes, preserving them for future generations to admire and study.

Summary of key takeaways:

Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were designed to be historically accurate.
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were not comfortable to wear.
The total cost of Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes is not known for certain, but it is estimated that they cost around $500,000.
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes were designed by Irene Sharaff.
Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes are now housed in the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.

The costumes in Cleopatra are just one example of the film's lavish production values. The film also featured elaborate sets, special effects, and a cast of thousands. Cleopatra was one of the most expensive films ever made at the time, and it remains one of the most visually stunning films in history.

Elizabeth Taylor's Cleopatra costumes are some of the most iconic and recognizable costumes in film history. They are a testament to the power of costume design, and they continue to inspire artists and audiences today. The costumes' historical accuracy, visual appeal, and association with Elizabeth Taylor have all contributed to their enduring legacy.

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