The costumes in The Last Showgirl are more than just clothes; they’re veritable works of art, steeped in history and carrying a significant monetary value. This is especially true for the vintage pieces sourced from iconic designers like Bob Mackie and Pete Menefee.
Kiernan Shipka, who plays Jodie in the film, shared her appreciation for the wardrobe in an Entertainment Tonight interview. She described the thrill of wearing “archival pieces” with such rich stories and history, emphasizing the unique experience of donning garments “honored in a previous life.”
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Brenda Song, who portrays Mary-Anne, echoed this sentiment, expressing the universal desire to be a showgirl and the undeniable allure of wearing Bob Mackie creations. However, the glamour came with a significant responsibility. The immense value of the costumes, particularly the headpieces adorned with “millions of dollars worth of feathers and gems,” kept everyone on edge. Song recounted how any stray feather prompted a frantic scramble to retrieve it, highlighting the precious nature of these elaborate ensembles.
In the film, Pamela Anderson plays Shelly, an aging Las Vegas showgirl. The costumes, many of which were originally used in the iconic Las Vegas show Jubilee, played a crucial role in bringing the characters and the story to life.
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The weight of these elaborate costumes, however, was a challenge for the actors. Both Song and Shipka acknowledged the physical strain of wearing not just the headpieces but the entire outfits, emphasizing the dedication required to perform in such extravagant attire.
Pamela Anderson, in an interview with Harper’s Bazaar, expressed her own admiration for the showgirl costumes. Director Gia Coppola’s mother, Jacqui Getty, served as the costume designer, collaborating with Jose Rodrigo and Jesse Phillips to ensure the authenticity and splendor of the showgirl attire. Shipka also recalled a specific lavender dress, highlighting the memorable impact of these unique pieces. Anderson confirmed wearing the lavender dress, adding to the shared appreciation for the stunning wardrobe. Ultimately, the experience of wearing these costumes transcended mere clothing; it was an opportunity to embody living art.
