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October 03, 2024 19 min read
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Let’s face it: bathrobes and robes are the unsung heroes of TV and film. Sure, superheroes have their capes, mobsters have their pinstripe suits, and action stars have their leather jackets, but nothing quite says, “I’ve had it with the world, and I’m taking a personal day,” like a bathrobe. It's the costume for characters who mean business when it comes to not doing business. And in the grand pantheon of memorable movie and TV outfits, the bathrobe stands as a symbol of comfort, vulnerability, and occasional flamboyant flair.
Ever notice how certain scenes just wouldn’t work without a robe? Imagine Tony Soprano striding around his mansion in a business suit instead of his iconic bathrobes—it just wouldn’t have the same energy. Picture Jeff Bridges as “The Dude” in The Big Lebowski without his legendary, “I've definitely given up on caring” terry cloth masterpiece. Or take Arthur Dent from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy. He faces the destruction of Earth, intergalactic travel, and meeting creatures from all over the universe—all while refusing to get dressed. That’s a level of confidence we should all aspire to. Wearing a bathrobe while saving the galaxy is the ultimate “I can handle anything” vibe. I mean I get it. Well, maybe not the “saving the galaxy” part. But definitely the “I refuse to get dressed” part.
These robes aren’t just clothing; they’re an extension of the characters themselves, an accessory that screams (or gently suggests) relaxation, chaos, utter nonchalance, a baller with a pension for pleasure, or downright clinical depression, depending on the wearer. Hey don’t point that finger at me.
So grab a cup of coffee, tie up your own bathrobe (preferably one of SpiritHoods’ comfy hooded luxury robes), and let’s journey together through some of the most iconic robes that ever graced the silver screen.
Some bathrobes are the ultimate fashion statement for anyone who wants to blend "I just woke up" with "I own the world." These luxury robes are like the king of loungewear, draping your body in a waterfall of smooth, silky fabric that catches the light—and everyone’s attention—just right. You know the type: that robe you slip into when you want to feel like royalty lounging in your palace (even if your "palace" is a one-bedroom apartment). The silk glides with every step, turning your ordinary trip to the kitchen into a runway strut. These robes demand attention. And when worn on some of our favorite tv and film characters, we are happy to give it.
There are some robes that scream style—robes so magnificent that they could practically host their own fashion shows. Think about Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw, lounging around in a satin Agent Provocateur robe that probably costs more than some people’s rent. Her robes don’t just cover her up; they’re practically declarations of fashion war. Sarah Jessica Parker steals every scene wearing these gorgeous luxury robes made of flowing fabric, intricate patterns, and the perfect sash tie—it’s as if she’s daring the universe to find a more glamorous loungewear option. I especially love this gorgeous purple silk kimono style luxury robe. The flowing sleeves and floral and sparkly appliques look stunning when it catches the light.
In 1933 Jean Harlow graced the silver screen as the brash and flashy Kitty Packard, and one of her most memorable costumes is a glamorous luxury robe. The robe is a satin, light-colored gown, often described as either white or champagne, that is trimmed with fur (too bad SpiritHoods wasn’t around because the robe would be trimmed in luxurious faux fur), giving it a lavish and over-the-top elegance that perfectly captures Kitty’s character. The robe’s silky fabric reflects the light, highlighting Harlow’s signature platinum blonde hair and adding a touch of glitz and allure.
The fur trim, which lines the cuffs and the collar, further accentuates the robe’s opulence and makes Kitty look every bit the high-maintenance, social-climbing wife she’s meant to portray. The scene in which Harlow wears this robe has her lounging at home, embodying Kitty's persona as a woman who loves to flaunt her wealth and sensuality. The robe, paired with her coy mannerisms and playful banter, amplifies her character’s vanity, humor, and flirtatious nature. It also contrasts with the other more understated characters, helping to make Harlow's portrayal of Kitty one of the standout performances of the film.
Kelsey Grammer’s portrayal of Dr. Frasier Crane in the tv show, Frasier often sees him at home in his luxurious silk robe. As a highbrow, cultured character with a flair for the dramatic, Frasier's choice in loungewear fits his personality perfectly. His luxury dressing gowns and house robes convey refinement, indulgence, and a sense of high society—all traits that define Frasier's attempts to live his life with elegance (even if it doesn't always go as planned).
In Batman Begins, Christian Bale’s Bruce Wayne wears a luxurious silk robe with orange trim, embodying the billionaire playboy persona he projects to the world. The robe is classy, fitted, and understated in color—showing that even when he's not donning the Bat-suit, Bruce’s wardrobe remains impeccably stylish. This robe is often seen during the moments when Bruce is at home in Wayne Manor, relaxing or discussing plans with Alfred, adding a layer of sophistication to his dual identity.
In Mad Men, John Slattery’s character, Roger Sterling, exudes class and a sense of entitlement, and this extends to his red plaid men's smoking jacket moments as well. In a few memorable scenes, Roger can be seen lounging in elegant robes, enjoying cocktails, and conducting business with his usual flair. The robes are sophisticated and luxurious, fitting perfectly within the stylish, meticulously detailed world of the 1960s advertising industry.
David Cross wearing a silk robe in Arrested Development is the most deliciously ridiculous look. It’s as if he’s trying to exude luxury and sophistication, but instead, he ends up looking like he’s constantly in the middle of a misguided midlife crisis. Which makes us love him even more for it. The silk robe is often poorly tied, revealing just a bit too much of his pale, never-nude physique, and it clings to him in all the wrong ways—perfectly matching his delusions of grandeur and failed attempts at elegance. Tobias sports that robe with the kind of confidence only a struggling actor/psychoanalyst can muster. Much like Tobias himself, the robe is ever-present, slightly uncomfortable to watch, and guaranteed to make every awkward situation just a little bit worse.
Will Ferrell's character exudes confidence and swagger even when lounging in his robe. The way too short bright orange number he wears wide open while paired with a pair of maroon briefs during a party is unparalleled comedy gold. With a cocktail in hand he pursues to pick up Christina Applegate’s character with lines like “You have…an absolutely breathtaking…heiney. I mean that thing is good. I wanna be friends with it” and “I have many leather bound books...and my apartment smells of rich mahogany." It’s a perfect reflection of his “big deal” attitude, effortlessly blending comfort with a sense of self-importance. Whether he's strutting around his San Diego apartment, sipping scotch, or practicing his mustache grooming, Burgundy’s robe isn't just clothing—it's a declaration of his belief that he is always "kind of a big deal," even in his most relaxed moments.
Robert De Niro plays Sam "Ace" Rothstein, a sharp and impeccably dressed casino manager with a meticulous eye for detail. Some of his most memorable looks are his various silk dressing gowns. The stunning deep red robe with gold pin-dots, complete with deep burgundy piping on the edges of the shawl lapels and cuffs. The robe reflects Ace’s love for luxury, elegance, and precision, as well as his status as a high-roller in Las Vegas. It's not just a robe; it’s a power statement—an extension of his personality that combines sophistication and extravagance. And then there’s his pink silk luxury robe with its violet-and-gold pattern. And what about the gorgeous structured navy blue one? These robes capture the glamour of 1970s Las Vegas, and the meticulous detailing of these luxury dressing gowns show how Ace's sense of style mirrors his need for control and perfection. Even when he's in loungewear, the character exudes authority and class, highlighting the seamless blending of opulence and ruthlessness that defines De Niro’s character throughout the film.
First things first: bathrobes may look soft and casual, but don’t be fooled—they’re the ultimate power move. They tell the world, “I’m comfortable in my skin, but if you cross me, I’m also comfortable launching a hostile takeover while wearing fuzzy slippers.” Just look at Hugh Hefner, a man whose entire empire was built around silk robes that basically declared, “This is how to mix business and pleasure without ever changing your clothes.” And even though technically, Hugh isn’t a fictional character from tv or film, he’s a character nonetheless and his robes needed to be included in my list. Undeniably one of the most famous robes ever, Hugh Hefner's silk robe became his signature look. Hefner was rarely seen without his luxurious robes and often paired with a men's smoking jacket. His robe became a symbol of luxury, indulgence, and the laid-back, lavish lifestyle associated with the Playboy brand. Wearing pajamas all day and still making millions? Ultimate power move.
In Iron Man 3, Robert Downey Jr. 's Tony Stark lounges around Stark Tower in a luxury bathrobe that screams wealth and playboy charm. The robe matches his character’s billionaire persona- sleek and stylish, often paired with a drink in his hand. It’s more than just comfort wear; it’s a visual representation of Tony’s laid-back yet sharp style, even when he's dealing with a whole heap of superhero troubles.
While not technically a “bathrobe,” Rocky’s iconic red and yellow hooded boxing robe with the words "Italian Stallion" on the back is unforgettable. It represents the underdog spirit of the films and symbolizes both victory and struggle. Worn in various fights throughout the series, Rocky's robe is emblazoned with his name and worn with pride, making it one of the most recognizable robes in sports and film history. Also fun fact, listen to Sylvester Stallone talk about how this robe was stolen from him when it was put up for auction.
Brad Pitt’s Tyler Durden makes quite a style statement in Fight Club with his chaotic, devil-may-care personality, and his robe is no exception. He rocks a cozy purple chenille bathrobe with cups of coffee which stands out against his otherwise gritty, anarchist appearance. The robe is almost comically grandiose and clashes with the rough-and-tumble lifestyle that Tyler embodies, making it an ironic nod to his disdain for societal norms and materialism. It’s a "bathrobe for destruction" kind of look.
In Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Ferris (Matthew Broderick) lounges in a maroon and grey striped bathrobe, creating the ultimate “day-off” look. This robe is a playful symbol of his carefree attitude as he fakes being sick to take a break from school. The bathrobe, paired with a 1980's cordless phone and Broderick's smug attitude, perfectly embodies the essence of Ferris—witty, fun-loving, and determined to enjoy life to the fullest, even if it means tricking everyone around him.
Alfred Molina's character wears a long flowing silvery-gray silk robe during one of the film's most memorable and tense scenes. The robe, which is more like a dressing gown, adds to the chaotic, hedonistic, and slightly unhinged vibe of his character. Rahad is portrayed as a drug dealer who is erratic and unpredictable, and the flashy, open robe reflects his eccentric personality and casual approach to danger. The whole scene, with Molina wearing the robe, blasting "Sister Christian" by Night Ranger and "Jessie's Girl" by Rick Springfield in the background, and dancing while fireworks go off indoors, adds to the suspense and surreal feel of the moment.
Then there are the bathrobes that tell a different story—the comfort zone characters. These are the people who have no intention of leaving the house, let alone the couch, and that’s just fine by them. Bathrobes are the universal symbol for a character who’s fully embraced the art of not trying—comfort zones wrapped up in plush fabric. You see a character in a bathrobe, and you know they’ve mentally clocked out of the world’s nonsense. It’s that soft, forgiving hug of terry cloth or fleece that says, “I’m not here to impress, I’m here to exist.” For some characters, the robe is like armor against the outside world; it’s the uniform of self-care, whether they're wallowing over a breakup, recovering from a wild night, or just generally embracing the art of doing absolutely nothing. There's no pressure to be productive when you’re in a robe; it's basically the fabric equivalent of a "Do Not Disturb" sign. And while the rest of the world may be putting on pants and getting things done, these characters know the secret truth: sometimes, life’s battles are best fought from the couch, one cozy sleeve at a time.
Arguably the most iconic bathrobe in film history, Jeff Bridges’ character The Dude sports a shabby, mauve colored terry cloth robe that he wears just about everywhere—the grocery store, his apartment, even during confrontations with gangsters. It's the ultimate symbol of “I don’t care” vibes, and it’s as much a part of The Dude’s character as his laid-back attitude and love of White Russians. This bathrobe embodies comfort, laziness, and that weird kind of style only The Dude could pull off. It’s more than an outfit; it’s a lifestyle. His robe hangs off him like an aura of permanent vacation, making every scene feel like he’s one spilled drink away from both nirvana and complete chaos.
James Gandolfini’s Tony Soprano has become synonymous with the various robes that he often wears while wandering around his mansion, coffee cup in hand surveying his kingdom with a look that says, “Yes, I am a mob boss, but I also like my bacon crisp and my mornings slow.” His robe isn’t just clothing—it’s armor. He may be a feared mob boss, but in that robe, he’s a man who values his downtime. His robes, which have a distinct “boss of the house” feel, are a visual representation of Tony’s ability to switch between family man and mob boss. The image of Tony in his bathrobe, whether he's checking the mail or contemplating life's existential struggles with a big cigar in his hand, is one of the defining visuals of the series.
Julia Roberts’ character sports a cozy hotel bathrobe during one of the film’s most memorable scenes. The bathrobe itself is a simple terry cloth hotel robe and Vivian has just woken up in Richard Gere’s hotel room. She sits down at a table full of every breakfast item on the room service menu and asks his character what he does for a living. The robe adds a sense of both comfort and girl next door sensuality, highlighting Vivian’s playful, down-to-earth nature amidst the lavish lifestyle she’s suddenly found herself in. And how can we NOT love her as she tries to hide her shock when Edward tells her he is buying a company that needs fixing for the bargain price of ONE BILLION Dollars. The red hair, the hotel robe, her eating a croissant...its all fantastical dreamy perfection.
Long before Julia Roberts wore a terry robe in the 1990 hit Pretty Woman, Audrey Hepburn made it look fabulous in the 1961 hit film Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Hepburn plays the iconic Holly Golightly, and one of her most memorable loungewear moments is when she wears a white terrycloth bathrobe. The robe is simple, yet elegant, perfectly capturing Holly’s effortless style and charm. Unlike the glamorous gowns and chic little black dress that are associated with her character, this robe shows a more intimate and relaxed side of Holly, offering a glimpse into her private moments away from her sophisticated social persona.
Gene Hackman’s character, Royal Tenenbaum, sports a simple yet unforgettable blue striped bathrobe throughout much of The Royal Tenenbaums. Royal's robe is an extension of his character—an aging, washed-up patriarch who’s more interested in comfort than decorum. It’s slightly oversized and worn in, suggesting a man who’s made peace with the chaos of his family life, or at the very least, knows how to tune it all out with a comfortable bathrobe and some takeout.
Charlie Sheen’s character in Two and a Half Men was known for his relaxed lifestyle and womanizing antics, which were often accompanied by his navy blue bathrobe. Typically paired with pajama pants, a bowling shirt, or shorts, Charlie’s robe was an everyday staple, perfectly representing his laid-back, bachelor attitude. The robe emphasized his lack of ambition, love for comfort, and carefree, hedonistic lifestyle.
Bill Murray's character, Bob Harris, lounges in a kimono-style robe during some of the film’s most intimate and reflective moments. The robe, simple yet elegant, mirrors his character’s sense of displacement and search for comfort in an unfamiliar world while shooting a whiskey commercial in Japan. Wearing the kimono robe symbolizes Bob's blending into Japanese culture, while also conveying his laid-back, unguarded state as he navigates both his midlife crisis and connection with Scarlett Johansson’s character. It adds a touch of humor and charm, capturing his attempt to relax and find solace amidst the chaos of his surroundings. Side note: It is said that the director, Sophia Coppola, wanted to showcase Murray’s character’s more sensitive side and thought it would be funny to put him in a kimono robe.
Wesley Snipes’s character is best known for wearing a blue terry cloth bathrobe during one of the film’s memorable scenes. The robe captures a moment of Nino's laid-back yet still in-command vibe as he rules over his drug empire in New York City during the crack epedemic. It’s an interesting contrast to his usual flashy suits, showing that even in his downtime, he exudes a sense of power and casual confidence. The terry cloth robe adds a touch of comfort while still maintaining his larger-than-life, intimidating presence.
Bathrobes also serve as a mood—a visual indicator of what’s going on inside a character’s head. Ever see a scene where a character's been defeated by life, moping around in a robe that hasn't seen the inside of a washing machine in weeks? That robe says everything. It’s the clothing version of a sigh. These robes are the ultimate “I am completely over it” attire. Paired with ice cream (substitute any device you want. Mine is ice cream) and bad TV, they are the perfect visual representation of a character going through a rough time.
Early on in Breaking Bad, Bryan Cranston's iconic character, Walter White, is often seen wearing a bathrobe—an indication of his powerlessness, his boredom, and his trapped life as an overworked, underpaid chemistry teacher. But as his life changes, his wardrobe does too, trading in the comfy robe for more sinister threads. The robe, in retrospect, symbolizes the last piece of his humanity—a final shred of comfort before everything unravels.
In both the book and the film adaptations, Arthur Dent’s green bathrobe is more than just an article of clothing—it's a metaphor for his entire journey. Thrown into an intergalactic adventure just as he’s waking up to his house being demolished, Arthur doesn’t even have time to change, so he spends much of his odyssey wearing a plain robe and gripping his towel. This simple robe captures the essence of Arthur’s character: bewildered, reluctant, and just trying to survive the absurdity of the universe.
Lance, the drug dealer in Pulp Fiction, played by Eric Stoltz, wears a puke-green bathrobe. He's seen lounging around in the robe during one of the film's most memorable scenes—when Vincent Vega (John Travolta) brings the overdosing Mia Wallace (Uma Thurman) to his house. The robe fits Lance’s laid-back, drug-dealer vibe, adding to the casual, chaotic, and darkly humorous atmosphere of the scene.
Marge Simpson’s bathrobe is a regular feature in The Simpsons, often worn during scenes at home in the early morning or late at night. The robe is a staple of her character, representing her role as the stay-at-home mom who juggles the chaos of the Simpson household. It’s cozy, practical, and helps establish Marge’s warm and nurturing personality amidst the zaniness of Springfield.
Randy Quaid as Cousin Eddie has one of the funniest bathrobe scenes ever in Christmas Vacation. Standing out in the snow, dumping waste into the sewer system, all while wearing a short women's robe tied by a belt and a fur hat, Eddie epitomizes the spirit of holiday chaos. It’s a bathrobe moment that combines humor and the charm of a family holiday gone terribly awry.
The Hollywood screen siren wore bathrobes in a few of her films. Some of the most notable ones that capture her timeless appeal are:
The Seven Year Itch (1955) In this iconic film, Marilyn wears a simple white terrycloth robe in one of the scenes, offering a casual and intimate look at her character, "The Girl." While the most famous scene is the one with her white dress blowing up over the subway grate, the bathrobe moments add a more relaxed and playful side to her character.
How to Marry a Millionaire (1953) Monroe plays one of three women trying to find rich husbands in this comedy. In one scene, she dons a robe while lounging around with her co-stars Lauren Bacall and Betty Grable. The robe adds to her character’s elegance and understated glamour, balancing her beauty with a touch of playfulness.
Niagara (1953) In this thriller, Monroe's character, Rose Loomis, wears a bathrobe during some of the tense scenes, adding to the film’s mix of sensuality and suspense. The robe is part of Monroe’s sultry style, revealing a softer side while also keeping her femme fatale edge.
I'm obsessed with the Golden Girls. Blanche, Rose, Dorothy, and Sophia can do no wrong in my book. And any single one of their many bathrobes, luxury robes, and housecoats from the show make me so happy.
Jack Nicholson makes a memorable appearance wearing an animal print bathrobe that perfectly embodies his character's chaotic, flamboyant, and unpredictable nature. The robe is a bold, leopard-print style that speaks to Costello's extravagant and fearless personality—he's a mob boss who thrives on his own eccentricities and doesn't care what others think. The animal print also serves as a visual metaphor for Costello’s wild and predatory nature, reflecting his power and dangerous instincts. It’s a striking choice for a character who exudes charisma, menace, and a disregard for social norms. Nicholson's relaxed yet menacing portrayal of Costello, while donning this robe, enhances the impression that he’s in complete control, even in his most casual moments, and adds to the film's gritty, unpredictable atmosphere. The bathrobe becomes an extension of Costello’s persona—a flashy, unapologetic symbol of his reign over Boston’s underworld. Plus we love anything animal print at SpiritHoods. Big points to the costume designer for that.
William Gillette, who famously portrayed Sherlock Holmes on stage, wore a dressing gown during the play. Gillette co-wrote Sherlock Holmes with Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and played the title character over 1500 times. Gillette's depiction of Holmes in the late 19th and early 20th centuries helped cement the image of the detective wearing a robe while in his Baker Street study, which has since become an iconic part of Sherlock Holmes' character. Gillette's version of the robe was typically silk or velvet, often richly colored, and was worn during scenes where Holmes was relaxing at home, deep in thought, or preparing for a case. This wardrobe choice emphasized Holmes’ intellectual sophistication and comfortable eccentricity. Gillette's portrayal significantly influenced later depictions of Holmes, and his use of the robe became a defining feature that is still closely associated with the character today.
Sean Connery wore a bathrobe in the very first James Bond film in 1962. The robe is a light blue terry cloth bathrobe, which Bond wears after taking a shower at Dr. No's lair. This bathrobe scene captures Bond's relaxed yet suave demeanor, even when he’s in enemy territory. The moment showcases Bond’s style and confidence, as he maintains his sophistication even when dressed in something as casual as a bathrobe. It also set the tone for many later Bond films, where lounging in luxury—even in dangerous settings—became a staple of the character's on-screen portrayal.
In adaptations of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol, the Ghost of Christmas Present is often portrayed wearing a green robe with faux fur trim and is sometimes decorated with holly or ivy. It represents warmth, generosity, and abundance, in contrast to the sparse life of Scrooge, and embodies the spirit of joy and festivity of the Christmas season. The robe has become a recognizable part of the many film, TV, and stage adaptations of this classic story. And is the faux fur trim reminding anyone else of the SpiritHoods faux fur luxury robes?
The character of Brad, played by Barry Bostwick wears a blue bathrobe after arriving at Dr. Frank-N-Furter’s mansion and experiencing the wild events that ensue. The short silk light blue robe, adds to the contrast between Brad’s "square," conservative personality and the wild, flamboyant characters around him. It also underscores his vulnerability and discomfort as he finds himself in increasingly surreal and sexual situations. The robe becomes part of the visual humor, emphasizing how out-of-place he feels amidst the outrageous attire and behaviors of the mansion's inhabitants.
It used to be that you would have to scour Poshmark or Ebay for one of these robes and be willing to shell out hundreds of dollars, but after a little research, I found out that the company launched a kickstarter and now they’re back! Check out the popular robes from Canyon Group! You’re welcome!
In this blog we explore some of film and television's most famous bathrobes and luxury robes through history.
The bathrobe worn by Jeff Bridges as the character "The Dude" in the Big Lebowski is one of the most notable bathrobes in film history.