Glenn Close has always embraced bold and challenging roles throughout her illustrious career, gaining particular fame as the menacing Alex Forrest in the 1987 thriller Fatal Attraction, which catapulted her into the spotlight.
Now at 78, Close has dedicated over 50 years to her craft, showcasing her versatility in iconic characters—from the glamorous and sinister Cruella De Vil in 101 Dalmatians to a strong-willed feminist nurse in The World According to Garp.
Her impressive filmography has resulted in an enviable collection of costumes, many of which she has acquired after filming wrapped. Notably, she once lent a stunning dress from Dangerous Liaisons to Madonna for her famous VMA performance of “Vogue.”
In an interview with The Talks, Close revealed that her collection boasts over 800 pieces gathered throughout her career. Her wardrobe features designs from renowned costume designers like Ann Roth, James Acheson, and Anthony Powell—an aspiration for many budding actors.
Reflecting on her passion for costumes, she noted, “It all started with my love for the characters represented by those costumes and the creative process in the fitting room.” Close emphasized the critical role of costume designers, stating, “They are as vital as the director in bringing a character to life.” She proudly listed numerous pieces from her most significant roles, including those from Fatal Attraction, 101 Dalmatians, and even her debut film, The World According to Garp.
In 2013, a curated selection of her costumes was displayed at the Muscarelle Museum of Art at the College of William & Mary, a meaningful event for Close, who graduated from the college in 1974 with a double major in theater and anthropology. Just six years after graduating, she was nominated for her first Tony Award for her performance in the musical Bar.
Over her career, Close has won three Tony Awards for Best Actress for her roles in The Real Thing (1984), Death and the Maiden (1992), and Sunset Boulevard (1995), establishing herself as one of Hollywood’s most respected actors. She has also received six Academy Award nominations, two Golden Globe Awards, and three Emmy Awards, further cementing her legacy.
In a bittersweet decision, in 2018, Close donated her entire costume collection to Indiana University’s Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design for an exhibit titled The Art of the Character, celebrating her remarkable career and the diverse characters she has brought to life through her extraordinary wardrobe.
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