Just as good as seeing the movie on the big screen was all the high-drama fashion moments Posey created for the glamorous events surrounding the festival. This year, she worked with her go-to stylist Leith Clark to dial up the drama and deliver a full-on ethereal fantasy. “I’m inspired by all the designers, and when my stylist chooses items, I’m drawn to colors, like the pink Valentino,” says Posey, speaking of the polka-dotted, high-neck mini dress with lace trim she worn to the photo call.
For her approach to dressing in general, Posey says it’s all about looking for pieces that have a story and specific mood. She is not a star who treats fashion frivolously. “I enjoy feeling connected to the women who inspired me growing up,” says Posey. “As a child of the ’70s, I remember women [during times of] early feminism, so when I get to nod to that, I am happy.”
Her premiere look, also by Valentino, evoked that strength and confidence: Posey wore a sheer, blush-toned cape that extended down to the floor. It was perfect for a formal affair like Venice, but called back to a more unexpected reference beyond Hollywood glamour. “There was a show called Night Gallery that Rod Serling hosted—this was in the ’70s. It was gothic and surreal, and I loved it,” says Posey. “The cream dress and cape had me feeling from another realm. I kept saying I was casting spells! I like to feel bold at these premieres, so strong choices help me feel more secure when I could be overwhelmed—I like looking like I’m showing up!”
She certainly did—fabulously, at that. As for what’s next for Posey now that her epic Venice run is completed? The actor will be pulling off a different kind of fashion whirlwind on our TV screens very soon. “I have the new Traitors show coming out—fun for the whole family,” she says. (She will be hosting a spinoff series called The Mob.) “I have some fun wardrobe in that too. It felt like a treasure trove of costumes, the styling for that project. I hope it inspires some playing around in costumes!” We can’t wait to see what she wears next.
Below, scroll on for more of a look inside Parker Posey’s Venice Film Festival.
