Hollywood costumes transport viewers into the setting of a movie. Whether in a different time period, alternate reality or dystopian world, clothing, hair and makeup can transform an actor into a character. They help them embody the role and allow audiences to take 90 minutes out of their daily lives to experience a little bit of movie magic. What would Star Wars be without Darth Vader’s mask or Princess Leia’s gold bikini?

Hollywood has had a major role in defining American pop culture through the ages. A generation of girls grew up in awe of Dorothy’s blue dress and red sequined shoes and many young boys admired Indiana Jones for his bravery and suave fedora.

The outfits you see below reflect their contemporary society much like a work of art. As you peruse everything from iconic hollywood glamor to comedic genius in the costumes below, think about whether society influenced the costume or, if the costume influenced society.

The outfits you see below, researched and created by a team of experts prior to filming, play a pivotal role in creating context for viewers. They also reflect their contemporary society much like a work of art. As you peruse everything from their iconic Hollywood glamor to their comedic genius, think about whether society influenced the costume or, if the costume influenced society.

Discover more Hollywood costumes and props in Profiles in History’s three-day Hollywood Auction (June 26–28). Explore the catalogs for day 1, day 2, and day 3.