Our Production Designer, Hannah Poston, and Costume Designer, Manda Levie, have provided this great guide for the look of everyone appearing as extras and tango dancers in Tango Silent Films:

MEN
simple:  oxford shirt, tie, pants, suit (single or double breasted), tango shoes.
fun additions:  suspenders, fedora or newsboy cap

WOMEN
simple:  shift dress, drop-waist dress. Lacy or silky blouse w/skirt. Any elegant dress will do. Tango shoes.
elaborate:  gown in 20s or 30s style (chemise or full-length bias-cut)
fun additions:  rhinestones, long strings of pearls.

HAIR isn’t too important for extras, but if you would like to experiment with a bob, updo, finger waves, or chignon, go right ahead!

MAKEUP isn’t necessary either, but feel free to go for some intense flapper eyeliner and some red bow-shaped lips to get in the mood.

If you have clothing options, please try to avoid wearing solid black or solid white.  It is extremely hard to film, and can throw off the lighting.  Wear colors that contrast well with each other, such as a light pink shirt and dark green tie.  If it looks strange in color, it will probably show up well on black and white film.  Patterns are encouraged but if they are very small they may “bleed” or show up fuzzy on film.

Manda Levie has also prepared an excellent article about 1920′s & 30′s fasion if you’re interested in reading more. CLICK HERE to read about 20s-30s Fashion

Let us know what you think!