What Bob Wore: A Sartorial Appreciation of the Notable Costumes Worn by Robert De Niro in Martin Scorsese’s Films
What Bob Wore: Home | About | Costumes by Type: Period Picture vs. Modern day | Costumes by Film Year | Costumes by Chonological Order |
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1973 Tiny Hat Intro: Our first look at Bob in Marty's Films
Rakish grin, terrible hair
1976 NYC Loner
We ARE the People
1977 V-Day Meet-Cute
Musical Takes a Dark Turn
1980 In the Ring
Hubris: The Aftermath of Fame
1982 Rupert: Armchair Comedian in his Mother's House
Can't Take No For an Answer
Amateur Goes Rogue- And Kills It
1991 The Illustrated Man Behind Bars
Freedom
Stalking Continues
Loud Moviegoer

Tiny Hat Intro: Our first look at Bob in Marty's Films

Film Details:

  • Film Title: Mean Streets
  • Film Year: 1973
  • Character Name: Johnny Boy
  • Cinematography: colorFilm
  • Scorsese Cameo? true

Here is more information about the costume and how it informs the character:

  • Clothing Articles: Warm brown plaid suitjacket with a melon-colored collared shirt.
  • Hairstyle: Bowl haircut
  • Props: Tiny hat
  • Costume Style: Casual Dress
  • Facial Hair? false
  • Bare Chested? false
  • Tattoos? false
  • Headwear? true

In this first look at Robert Deniro’s costumes, it’s worthwhile to read this anecdote regarding his relationship toward his clothing. According to acclaimed costume designer and UCLA professor Deborah Nadoolman Landis, "Bob has saved all the costumes he's worn since he was a young actor…Every. Single. Thing. They're totems of those different characters, and he didn't want anybody else to wear them" (Hollywood Reporter, October 26, 2012). With this in mind, Bob gives us a striking first impression as the volatile and violent Johnny Boy in an ill-fitting hat as a statement piece. Right away, something seems “off” about his persona- even before he says a word.

Did you know? Scorsese spent approximately half the film's budget clearing the songs. (via IMDb)

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