Iconic Costume Designer Turned Producer Anthea Sylbert Dies at 84

Anthea Sylbert, the acclaimed costume designer turned producer, known for her work on iconic films such as "Chinatown" and "Julia," passed away at the age of 84 in her home on the picturesque Greek island of Skiathos. Her stepson, Robert Romanus, revealed that the cause of her death was complications related to emphysema, marking the end of a remarkable career that had left an indelible mark on the world of cinema. Ms. Sylbert embarked on her journey as a costume designer in 1967, quickly establishing herself as a sought-after talent in the industry. Her collaborations with renowned directors like Mike Nichols, Roman Polanski, and Elaine May propelled her to the top tier of her profession. One of her most notable achievements was her work on "Chinatown," where she crafted the distinctive looks that helped bring the characters to life. Her vision for Jack Nicholson's portrayal of private detective Jake Gittes as a fashion-conscious dandy resonated with audiences and critics alike. In a poignant moment captured in the documentary "My Life in 3 Acts," directed by Sakis Lalas, Ms. Sylbert fondly recalled Nicholson's praise for her work, stating, "When 'The Ant' does your clothes, you don't have to act as much." This anecdote not only speaks to her talent but also to the rapport she shared with the actors she collaborated with. Deborah Nadoolman Landis, a respected figure in the world of costume design, highlighted a memorable scene in "Chinatown" where Gittes and Faye Dunaway's character, Evelyn Mulwray, share a moment on a red restaurant banquette. It is in such intricately crafted scenes that Ms. Sylbert's artistry shone brightest, capturing the essence of the characters and the story they inhabited. Beyond her work as a costume designer, Ms. Sylbert transitioned into producing, further showcasing her versatility and passion for storytelling. Her legacy extends far beyond the garments she designed, leaving an indelible imprint on the history of cinema. As the film world mourns the loss of a true trailblazer, Anthea Sylbert's contributions to the art of filmmaking will continue to inspire generations of creators to come.