3. Atonement (2007) - Keira Knightleys Green Dress
The emerald green dress worn by Keira Knightleys character Cecelia Tallis in the tragic drama Atonement is unquestionably deserving of its fame: the emerald gown was lusted over by millions and ultimately voted the best movie costume of all time in a recent poll. Designer Jacqueline Durran told The LA Times that she had the exact green pigment of the dress specially created but this has not stopped numerous attempts at replicas. Alluring and regal, the gown represents Cecelias upper class status and is yet another reminder of the difference in social standing between Cecelia and her love interest: James McAvoys Robbie. Furthermore, the majestic glamour of the green dress forms a heightened contrast to the costumes worn by characters in the latter part of the film, which takes place in an England overwhelmed by the Second World War. The stylistic change from glamour to drabness could represent the psychological change from hope to despair after a crucial event changes the lives of all the characters forever.