Lost in Translation
- alicelindsell
- Apr 3, 2020
- 3 min read
Updated: Apr 13, 2020
Lost in Translation - Spring - Nancy Steiner
Week three into lockdown this seemed like the perfect film to pick. I’ve never seen a female lead look so cosy as in this dreamy classic, about a blossoming friendship between two lonely insomniacs. Inevitably though - as when I’m tired, I dress in my most duvet-like ensembles too- so no wonder Scarlett Johanssen’s Charlotte is constantly in soft-cotton layers, cashmere, and hand-knitted wool scarves. Her muted wardrobe also echoes the seemingly constant twilight of the film and so, all combined, she (and Bill’s Yukata, obviously) serves as perfect inspiration for dreamy WFM attire.
‘I wish I could sleep.’ ‘Me too.’
Charlotte
Although Charlotte's style may not stand out as ground-breaking, that's exactly why it is. It's ruthlessly pared down, resolutely non-complicated. She uses classic shapes, block colours, and either pastel tones or ink black to complement her pale complexion. It's a look that always works and I always want to achieve but could never as I’d get bored way too easily. To emulate this style, I would suggest investing in some cashmere pieces from trusty brands, like Uniqlo or M&S. Wrap up in a duffle coat. Stock up on soft white tees, muted colours, sweater vests, and oversized button-downs for layering. Live in plimsoles and flats, even (especially) on a night out, wear black to look striking, and if you need to jazz it up, throw a sherbet pink wig into the mix. Obviously.
From left to right: Uniqlo Tee, Superga Trainers, Uniqlo Jumper, & Other Stories Top, Uniqlo Polo-neck, & Other Stories Top, Arket Shirt, Gloverall Duffle Coat, Ganni Sweater-vest, & Other Stories Pumps, You Must Create Cardi
‘I’ll be in the bar for the rest of the week’
Bob
To be honest there’s not a lot to say for Bob as he has about two costume changes throughout the whole film. He could probably be summarised in: one - yes, men (and women) always look fantastic in tuxes, wear one if you ever have an excuse to. Two - also applies to Yukatas. I have one I too bought in Tokyo, and with their funky geometric patterns and lightweight material you don't feel guilty wearing them in the day, as they're an effortlessly cool outfit within themselves. Three - make the most of any t-shirt by flipping it inside out and layering under a blazer, that's good value.
‘Let's never come here again because it would never be as much fun’
From left to right: Trouva Robe, An Indian Summer Robe, A.P.C. Tee, Etsy Yukata, A.P.C. Tee, Belstaff Tee, Nanin Vintage Blazer
Japanese Teenagers
The Japanese teenagers dotted around this film have fantastic style. See: the moody guy with slicked up spiky hair, playing guitar hero in an all-night arcade, while smoking a cigarette. Suggestions below.
'Let's go’
‘Okay’
'I'm trying to organise a prison break, I'm looking for, like, an accomplice …'
From left to right: Gentle Monster Sunglasses, Nike Trainers, & Other Stories Top, You Must Create Shirt, Yohji Yamomto Trousers, Undercover Coat, Issey Miyake Top, Junya Watanbe Miniskirt, Needles Trousers, Facetasm Shirt, Takahiromiyashita Top
Extras
Wool and the Gang Scarlett Johansson made knitting cool in the noughties and thankfully we have Wool and the Gang for that in 2020. Also, not exactly a bad time to start a new hobby.
‘So don't, stay here with me. We’ll start a Jazz band.’
Japanese TV Shows Japanese TV shows are the best to watch if you’re still not asleep at 2am - they’re utterly bizarre and ridiculously entertaining. Start with Candy or Not Candy - annoyingly outside Japan can only be watched via YouTube clips.
'So I guess goodbye...and enjoy my jacket...which you stole...from me’
Shibuya If you’re ever in Tokyo, head straight to Shibuya. In this eclectic neighbourhood you can not only find the world's biggest zebra road crossing (cooler than it sounds), the epicentre of Japan’s pop culture, and about 50 psychedelic all-night arcades - but also the branch of Karaoke Kan that iconic scene was filmed.
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