His New Venture Isn't As Random As You Think

Maybe you've heard the big news: Harvey Weinstein plans to bring back Charles James Couture. Page Six made the announcement following the Met Gala on Monday night, which celebrated the opening of the “Charles James: Beyond Fashion” exhibit. The time has never been better for giving the brilliant couturier his due and revitalizing the defunct brand.

Now, more than ever, there is interest in bringing back the Charles James design house. According to Page Six:

Sources say James’ family is in possession of their father’s designs and archives. The Weinstein deal would, according to a source, “create an exclusive couture house” and cover all licensing rights, including a fragrance. The partnership was hatched after it was announced that iconic designer James, who died in 1978, was being honored by Anna Wintour’s Met Gala.

But why Harvey Weinstein? Surprisingly, the famed movie producer is not the strangest choice for the venture. Of course, he certainly has the capital, but that's not all. Firstly, Weinstein is married to Georgina Chapman, designer of Marchesa. Chapman and her brother, Edward, will join Charles James Couture as consultants.

Plus, this isn't the first time Weinstein has dipped his toes into the world of high-fashion. In 2007 he partnered with Sarah Jessica Parker to acquire Halson, but left the investment in 2011. With Charles James Couture, the Weinstein Company would be the sole entity in charge of the label.

But Weinstein's movies are the most telling — he has produced some very well-costumed films. From Velvet Goldmine to Factory Girl, there are period dramas, Shakespearian adaptations, and seedy thrillers that are high on fashion. Here are the best costumes from Weinstein-produced films that prove the future of couture is probably pretty safe in his hands.

Jonathan Rhys Meyers in Velvet Goldmine (1998)

It's hard to choose just one look from this 1998 celebration of '70s glam rock, but this silver jumpsuit worn by Jonathan Rhys Meyer's character Brian Slade is hard to gloss over. There is a feathery neckpiece, for crying out loud.

Neve Campbell in 54 (1998)

That criss-cross neckline is equal parts '70s, '90s, and today. Anyone else thinking it may be time for the Cruella Deville cigarette holder to make a comeback?

Gwyneth Paltrow in Shakespeare in Love (1998)

'98 was a good year for Weinstein costuming. Shakespeare in Love has plenty of classic looks, but none are better than the giant gold fan framing Gwyneth's lovely face.

Juliette Binoche in Chocolat (2000)

Juliette Binoche's decolletage is to die for in this sexy, wide-necked blouse/high-waisted skirt combo.

Cate Blanchett in Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring (2001)

That hair piece and flowing white cape make me long for the days of the Elves. Wait, there were no Elves? Then it won't be culturally appropriative for me to snag Cate Blanchett's LOTR style.

Cameron Diaz in Gangs of New York (2002)

This richly layered costume is enough to make you forget that she's in a very precarious situation in this scene.

Gwen Stefani in The Aviator (2004)

Gwen Stefani brilliantly channels her character, Jean Harlow, in this slinky Old Hollywood gown complete with fur and diamonds.

Sienna Miller in Factory Girl (2006)

Since I pretty much just want to be Edie Sedgwick (minus the drugs), Factory Girl was guaranteed to wind up on this list. It's not a very good movie, but Miller is a dead-ringer for Edie, and the costuming is outstanding.

Bérénice Bejo in The Artist (2011)

This plunging, sequined number is exquisite and period-appropriate.

Michelle Williams in My Week with Marilyn (2011)

Williams' stunning turn as Marilyn Monroe was aided by the amazing costuming of the film. This ice blue dress and white sunglasses ensemble is one of the most beautiful selections from the movie.

See? Maybe Weinstein has some fashionable instincts after all.

Images: the Weinstein Company