W.E. – It’s almost time for Wallis to Rule

The reviews aren’t exactly glowing, but I’m still very excited about Madonna’s new movie about the great love affair between Edward and Mrs Simpson. The film is released on 20th January, with Angela Riseborough playing Wallis, and from film stills and publicity shots I have seen pre-release, this is going to be a supremely stylish affair.

Any film about the Duchess of Windsor is always going to feature fashion heavily. Clothes were important to Wallis, she believed that not being the most beautiful women in the world mattered far less if you were the best dressed. Wallis was always exquisitely turned out, favouring designers like Mainbocher and Schiaparelli, and having an extensive jewellery collection that included the infamous Cartier panther bracelet.

Madonna has recreated Wallis’s impeccable style and found a real star in Andrea Riseborough. Riseborough is no slouch in the style stakes herself, and has shown real star quality already in roles in ‘The Devil’s Whore’ and Margaret Thatcher in ‘The long walk to Finchley.’ Together, they have created a Wallis full of charm and style, who should herald the return of the Ladylike 30s and 40s to the fashion firmament.

To get the Wallis look, you need to look carefully at your lines. Broader shoulders, nipped in waistbands and straight skirts all help create the Wallis look. Bias cut evening gowns in a palette of black and white, diamante style brooches that stand in for the real thing and kid gloves that show you are a lady all add to the look.