Edith Head
Image credit: “Edith Head — Collection Highlights.” Courtesy of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (Oscars.org).
Image description: Edith Head stands in a cream suit and black top in front of a shelf displaying Oscar statuettes.
If you’ve ever watched The Incredibles, you’ve seen a character who looks an awful lot like legendary Hollywood costume designer Edith Head. People have long speculated that Edna Mode was based on her—but director Brad Bird has said Edna isn’t modeled on any one specific person (even if the resemblance is hard to miss).
Either way, Head’s real-life legacy is undeniable: she won eight Academy Awards for costume design (a record), dressing era-defining stars and shaping what “classic Hollywood glamour” looks like in our heads. She won for films like All About Eve and created the costumes for White Christmas—and you can practically feel her influence in the movie’s visual magic.
And if you want a single, jaw-dropping example of her artistry: Elizabeth Taylor’s iconic gown in A Place in the Sun—designed by Head—became one of the most famous (and widely copied) dresses in movie history.
So as the Christmas season rolls on, revisit White Christmas and really look at the costumes—especially those striking red-and-white numbers for Rosemary Clooney and Vera-Ellen. They don’t just decorate the scene; they make it. And if you’re in the mood for a visual rabbit hole, Head’s filmography online is basically a guaranteed treat for the eyes.
You tell me!
Image description: Edna Mode (animated character) stands with arms folded, wearing a black bob haircut, round glasses, and a structured dark outfit against a blue background.
Oscars.org notes that Edith Head’s signature glasses and forthright personality inspired the character Edna Mode in The Incredibles.
Host, The Pink Money Podcast | Financial Educator
With over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, Jerry has worked as a financial and wealth advisor, guiding individuals and families to grow and protect their wealth. His mission has always been clear: provide actionable advice, demystify complex financial concepts, and help people make confident, informed decisions.
Jerry earned his BS from St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas, and his Master of Science in Personal Financial Planning from the College of Financial Planning. Today, he uses that background to not only cover practical money topics but also to explore cultural conversations, personal growth, and the ways financial choices intersect with identity and community.
When he’s not podcasting, Jerry enjoys writing think pieces, curating Jerry’s Playlist (a celebration of music and culture), and encouraging listeners to think critically about the world around them.
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