As far as Christmas films go, Richard Curtis' Love Actually has to take the cake for being the most memorable. From the star-studded cast to the tangled storylines spanning heartbreak to high school crushes, every single moment of onscreen runtime is pure Yuletide magic (Emma Thompson and Joni Mitchell - the combination that continues to crack hearts wide open come December.)
Naturally, part and parcel of creating such an iconic film is the brilliance of the costume department. Conjured up by Joanna Johnston, the film's costume perfectly reflects the zeitgeist of the early 2000s. Off-the-shoulder tops, turtlenecks (on both men and women) and floral embroidery lean into the mismatched, comfort-forward vibe that the period embraced.
Between the Mariah Carey tunes, papier-mâché lobster heads and stressful Selfridges encounters, the Love Actually cast sported some scene-stealing winter looks. So, in honour of our favourite festive flick, here are the best Love Actually outfits that you recreate this season.
Juliet's Knit Top
Hailed at the 00s style moment of Love Actually, Juliet's light, fluffy knit top has played on our minds since first laying eyes on Curtis' Christmas concoction. An off-the-shoulder bardot silhouette, a timeless cream colourway and a subtly cropped fit encapsulate the Spice Girls-inspired aesthetics of the Y2K era.
© Love ActuallySarah's Shirt-Vest
Not too dissimilar to something Emma Chamberlain would wear now, Laura’s casual girl-next-door ensemble championed geek-chic. The past few seasons have witnessed the comeback of the humble knit sweater vest (Ganni girls you know what we're talking about) so it's very likely that you can recreate this outfit from your existing wardrobe. If you really want to channel your office damsel-in-distress, opt for a touch of frazzled rain-kissed hair and boho jewellery.
© Love ActuallyJuliet's Wedding Dress
In that wedding scene (cue the trumpets), we were all captivated by Juliet's whimsical bridal look. Opting for an intricate lace gown with capped sleeves and a crisscross v-neckline, Juliet, played by Keira Knightley, looked divinely elegant on her special day. The costume department opted to eschew jewellery in favour of a simple hair feather, making for a whimsical addition to the character's ethereal bridal aesthetic.
© Love ActuallyMia’s Turtleneck
It's no secret that villains often have the best wardrobes in the biz - and the loathsome Mia is no different. Despite her meddling temptress temprament, the character has one of the best wardrobes in the film. Perhaps it's her sharp French-girl bob, or simply the overarching allure of her demonic (yet chic) character, but she somehow made a plain black Steve Jobs turtleneck look flawless. Damn her.
© Love ActuallyJoanna's Sparkly Top
In our opinion, Joanna doesn't get enough credit when it comes to festive 'fits - probably because no one wants to admit that they were inspired by an 11-year-old. Age aside, Joanna came to slay at the end-of-year school concert, donning a very a one-shoulder sequin top featuring a cut-out sleeve that's styled with a pair of matching glittery jeans. Topping off the look - some tinsel hair streaks, yet another trend we've seen doing the rounds recently on TikTok (thanks, Anora.)
© Love ActuallyNatalie’s Red Knit
The sweetest character with a thoroughly Y2K wardrobe, Natalie's ruby red off-the-shoulder top with embellished stars is an ode to pre-Christmas style. A delightfully Noughties version of a traditionally ugly Christmas jumper, the bardot knit perfectly captured the character's upbeat spirit - no doubt a certain Mr Hugh Grant has something to do with that.
© Love ActuallyMia's Graphic Long Sleeve
What looks to be the work of Desigual, Miss Sixty or Custo Barcelona, Mia's long sleeve graphic top was a true relic of the early Aughts. A painterly face in monochrome hues contrasts a rainbow striped sleeve to create a nostalgic onscreen look. Depop girlies, take note.
© Love ActuallyJoanna's Beanie
Cut from a plush plum fabric with a fishnet knit finish, Joanna's beanie made for the ultimate Noughties accessory choice. Worn during the scene where a young Thomas Brodie Sangster charges through the airport in the name of love, the look remains a firm favourite among East London girls today.
© Love ActuallyJeannie's Diamanté Vest
January Jones, Elisha Cuthbert, Denise Richards, and Shannon Elizabeth in one scene? A Noughties dream. The American beauties who caught Colin's eye are all impeccably dressed - with graphic long sleeves, bootcut jeans and cowboy boots forming the foundation of their wardrobes. We especially love what January Jones' Jeannie is wearing - a sky blue V-neck dotted with Y2K diamanté. A club night essential.
© Love ActuallyJuliet's Baker Boy Hat
Fun fact - Juliet's iconic baker boy hat wasn't actually planned. Ms Knightley happened to wake up with a break-out the day of filming, which was cleverly covered by the statement headpiece. A staple accessory of stars including Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera and perhaps most famously Paris Hilton, the hat was often styled by 00s style insiders with low-slung, bootcut jeans, butterfly tops and a touch of Juicy Couture.
© Love Actually
