Why an outfit from ‘Maid in Manhattan’ is my autumn style inspiration

By Edaein OConnell
17th Sep 2019

Why an outfit from ‘Maid in Manhattan’ is my autumn style inspiration

Who would have thought that an outfit from the movie ‘Maid in Manhattan’ would provide such autumn style inspiration? Well, this IMAGE writer explains exactly why it does.

I never thought I would say it, but Jennifer Lopez might just be my AW19 style inspiration.

The 50-year-old’s style has never been my cup of tea, but I just can’t move past the style of one of the characters she played – hotel maid Marissa Ventura in Maid in Manhattan.

It’s a fairytale-style story. The maid falls in love with the handsome politician and they live happily ever after. Although Ralph Fiennes is incredibly charming as the leading man, the love story is not what I longed for. It was one of Marissa’s outfits that I coveted and dreamed of after watching the film.

It was a cream Dolce & Gabbana coat with matching trousers and polo knit. In the film, the outfit belonged to a hotel guest but Marissa tries it on while cleaning the room. It was the perfect fit and she subsequently wears it on a date with the handsome politician. Without the obvious issue of stealing, it was a modern Cinderella moment. No ball gown or tiara in sight. I was seven when the film was released and this was quite a powerful message for my young eyes.

In a later scene, Marissa gets to go to an actual ball and has the princess moment, but I didn’t care about it. It was all about the Dolce & Gabbana outfit. I vividly remember seeing it for the first time and thinking that when I grew up that was how I would dress.

Seventeen years on I still think the same.

The outfit

Chic and classic

Eternally classic and chic, this ensemble would work in any era. It’s rich and luxurious. It’s understated yet quietly impactful. The outfit is also an advertisement for investment pieces, showing good trousers, coats and knits will take you anywhere and everywhere.

Luckily for me, the high street is satisfying my sartorial hunger. Cream pieces are everywhere and it is relatively easy to recreate the look on a budget. Mango is leading the way with some fabulous coats and knitwear. The usual suspects, such as Zara and Topshop, are following suit.

A structured coat from Mango and tailored trousers from Topshop will be in your wardrobe for a long time. If you are looking for something a little edgier, pair the shearling coat and leather leggings from Zara together for a more modern look.

If trousers aren’t your thing, the Arket midi skirt is both flattering and comfortable. And the H&M knit with low back is a beautiful change from the traditional jumper.