Interview with "A Simple Favor" Costume Designer, Renée Kalfus

After writing “‘A Simple Favor’ Fashion: Blake Lively Revitalizing Suits,” I was able to secure an interview with the movie’s costume designer, Renée Kalfus. Her responses provide a deeper look into the influence behind the jaw-dropping looks in “A Simple Favor,” and offer interesting insight into the relationship between Stephanie and Emily’s costumes.

Which movie costumes have inspired you the most/ which is your favorite movie in regards to its costume design?

I remember early on before I was a designer being so impressed and made aware of the costumes and moved by them, in the films of “Barry Lyndon” [and] “Bonnie and Clyde.”

How do you feel that Emily, as a woman, redefined suits and challenged Director Paul Feig’s everyday look?

I think she used her suited look as armor; her character had an innate style that was intimidating and powerful.

In your interview with Vanity Fair, you said Emily’s final look was very "Rear Window." I am a huge Hitchcock fan and would love to hear more about the influence and train of thought for this Grace Kelly inspired decision.

There is a cool innate style in Hitchcock movies, and Grace Kelly has a memorable look that influenced me. Therefore, I used this style as influence for Blake's character.

Grace Kelly in “Rear Window”

In what ways do the costumes draw off of film noir imagery? For example, I noticed a connection between Emily’s first outfit, the navy pinstripe suit, and Jack Nicholson’s suit in one of the “Chinatown” movie posters/scenes. Was this intentional?

I can understand your observation. What I can say about the influence is that Blake wore her suits in a very handsome manner and in vain of men's suiting. They were not feminine suits. Hence, I think you make that connection more with men in suits in past films. They also have a slightly vintage quality that reminds you of the past.

Anna Kendrick’s character Stephanie wears a strikingly different wardrobe which came off as innocent and playful. What was it like planning such contrasting wardrobes?

The contrast between the characters were obviously a lot of fun. They were the least likely friends. She was a very DIY mommy blogger, very friendly, and so much different from the sleek, stylish Emily.