1940s Style Never Sexier in The Imitation Game
Sammy Sheldon Differ, the films costume designer, said “Mr. Cumberbatch tried on a series of sweaters and suits, then acted out scenes at fittings in search of the right combination of disheveled order.” Another challenge was designing something new and interesting for a time period that is already well-worn on-screen. So Ms. Sheldon Differ threw out old notions of what the period should look like according to the New York Times.
Keira Knightley co-stars with Cumberbatch in a wardrobe of knits, cardigans and cute hats. Ms. Sheldon Differ went on to say “We tried to find as much CC-41 clothing as possible,” the government’s label for rationed goods. She created three distinct outfits for each character, but kept Knightley’s wardrobes limited. “...you have to bear in mind that people didn’t have a lot of clothing (in the time period). If you had one good suit, you were well off. Most would make-do mend.”
Whether or not The Imitation Game wins an Oscar, Fashion One gives best dressed to Keira Knightley and Benedict Cumberbatch.