Baz Luhrmann Reveals His Vision to 'Grow Old Disgracefully' with Bold Fashion Choices
Synopsis
Filmmaker Baz Luhrmann, at 63, embraces his eccentric fashion sense, expressing a desire to 'grow old disgracefully' through wild outfits and a love for suits. He finds inspiration in artist Leigh Bowery and believes fashion is a vital part of storytelling in cinema.
Key Takeaways
Baz Luhrmann aims to age with style, embracing bold fashion choices.
His inspiration comes from the late artist Leigh Bowery .
He owns three containers of suits, reflecting his obsession with fashion.
Fashion significantly influences his filmmaking process.
Luhrmann challenges conventional views on aging in relation to fashion.
Los Angeles, March 2 (NationPress) Director Baz Luhrmann has expressed his desire to "grow old disgracefully", intending to do so by donning "wild" outfits.
The 63-year-old filmmaker is adamant about not toning down his wardrobe as he ages, and instead, he aims to feel even less restricted in his fashion choices as time goes on, according to reports from ‘Female First UK’.
He shared with The Sunday Times, "I grow old disgracefully. I wear crazy stuff and people are like: 'What are you doing, dude, you’re 60?' To hell with that, I don’t care, I like to dance.”
Baz also drew inspiration from the late artist and designer Leigh Bowery, stating, "He’s a remarkable Australian artist who deserves more recognition for his contributions to fashion. He once said, 'Embarrassment is the unexplored emotion.’ You can either blend in with what everyone else is wearing or take a bold stand. If you’re not being mocked, you’re not being creative.”
As reported by ‘Female First UK’, Luhrmann revealed that his primary fashion obsession is suits, admitting to owning three shipping containers filled with clothing that he shares with his costume designer wife, Catherine Martin.
When questioned about a clothing item he has "too much of", he replied, "Suits, but I can’t part with them. Between CM and me, it’s somewhat excessive. We have three shipping containers at our Queensland [Australia] complex that were shipped from our house in New York.”
Previously, he discussed the impact of fashion on his films with Forbes, stating, "I think it influences both ways, but it’s strange because Moulin Rouge has only recently gained acceptance. When I created Moulin Rouge!, even CM questioned me about making a can-can movie! I typically begin with a story, but I’m very aware that my role is to take what might appear untrendy and translate it into something relevant now. I do that in fashion with CM and my team. And fashion has evolved.”
“When I was starting, fashion was separate from filmmaking. I always had a passion for fashion. In classic films, for instance, Givenchy designed Audrey Hepburn's dress for Breakfast at Tiffany’s. She personally approached Givenchy to create her gown, illustrating how fashion communicates through cinema. Today, it has regained its status as a significant cultural influence,” he added.
Point of View
Baz Luhrmann's approach to aging and fashion reflects a larger cultural shift towards embracing individuality and self-expression. His comments highlight a desire to defy societal norms around aging and to celebrate creativity through personal style.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Baz Luhrmann mean by 'growing old disgracefully'?
Baz Luhrmann refers to embracing bold and unconventional fashion choices as he ages, opting for a vibrant and uninhibited style.
Who is Leigh Bowery and how does he influence Luhrmann?
Leigh Bowery was a notable Australian artist and designer known for his avant-garde fashion. Luhrmann admires Bowery's contributions and views him as a source of inspiration for his own style.
What is Baz's fashion obsession?
Baz Luhrmann has a significant obsession with suits, claiming to own three shipping containers full of them, shared with his wife, Catherine Martin.
How does fashion influence Baz Luhrmann's films?
Luhrmann believes fashion plays a crucial role in filmmaking, helping to reinterpret stories and create a dialogue between contemporary trends and cinematic narratives.
What does Luhrmann think about aging in fashion?
He advocates for defying traditional norms about aging in fashion, encouraging individuals to embrace their unique style regardless of societal expectations.
