Meaning: The quote you've provided is from Catherine Deneuve, a renowned French actress, who played the lead role in the classic 1967 film "Belle de Jour" directed by Luis Buñuel. In this quote, Deneuve is expressing her belief that the clothes featured in the film are crucial to its overall style and that, even decades later, they remain timeless.

The film "Belle de Jour" is known for its exploration of desire, fantasy, and reality, as well as its striking visual aesthetic. Set in Paris, the story follows Séverine, played by Deneuve, a young and beautiful housewife who, bored with her conventional life, secretly works as a prostitute during the day while her husband is at work.

Deneuve's character, Séverine, is always impeccably dressed in the film, and her wardrobe plays a significant role in conveying her character's internal conflicts and desires. The contrast between her elegant and conservative attire as a housewife and the more daring and provocative outfits she wears in her secret life as a prostitute reflects the duality of her character and the dichotomy between her public persona and private desires.

The costumes in "Belle de Jour" were designed by acclaimed French fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent, who was a close friend of Deneuve. Saint Laurent's designs for the film perfectly captured the essence of 1960s Parisian fashion, showcasing the elegance, sophistication, and avant-garde style that defined the era. The costumes not only complemented the film's narrative but also added a layer of visual richness and depth to the storytelling.

Deneuve's statement about the timelessness of the clothes in "Belle de Jour" reflects the enduring influence of the film's costume design. The fashion featured in the movie continues to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts, demonstrating its lasting impact on popular culture and the world of fashion.

Furthermore, the film's enduring appeal and the longevity of its sartorial choices can be attributed to the way in which the costumes were integral to the storytelling and character development. The clothes not only reflected the fashion sensibilities of the 1960s but also contributed to the psychological and emotional depth of the characters, particularly that of Deneuve's Séverine.

The quote also speaks to the broader concept of timeless style in cinema and fashion. It highlights the ability of certain films and their accompanying costumes to transcend their original time period and remain influential and relevant across generations. "Belle de Jour" continues to be celebrated for its visual aesthetics and the enduring impact of its costume design, a testament to the skillful collaboration between the director, the actress, and the fashion designer.

In conclusion, Catherine Deneuve's reflection on the importance and timelessness of the clothes in "Belle de Jour" underscores the significance of costume design in film and its enduring impact on the world of fashion. The film's iconic costumes, designed by Yves Saint Laurent, not only enhanced the visual storytelling but also continue to inspire and resonate with audiences, cementing their status as a timeless and integral element of the film's enduring legacy.