When it comes to sartorial moments in the movies, there’s perhaps none as legendary—or as timeless—as when Elizabeth James, portrayed by the late Natasha Richardson, graces the screen in the Nancy Meyers reboot of The Parent Trap. A London-based wedding dress designer, James is the type of character who instantly exudes chic, effortless style. From her first scene, where she dons a cream, sleeveless boatneck shift dress, to the memorable mini black dress and relaxed-fit blue button-down she packs for her reunion with Nick Parker in California, James’ wardrobe is a defining factor of the film.
“I always like to dress my characters simply, in classic silhouettes, and not in too much color. I just want everything on the screen to last and not date itself,” Meyers tells Condé Nast Traveler. And last it did. With the recent cultural conversations surrounding quiet luxury, rich mom outfits, and old money style, Elizabeth James’s closet of neutral separates; simple, elegant dresses; and elevated accessories feels as relevant today as it did when the movie premiered in 1998.
To mark the film’s 25th anniversary, we took inspiration from Elizabeth James (and a bit of input from Meyers herself) to create a packing list for London. While James’s outfits may feel aspirational, they’re also equally attainable—and the perfect suitcase staples for sightseeing along the Thames, indulging in afternoon tea at The Ritz, or making a trip to 23 Egerton Terrace, the Georgian home that served as the James family residence in The Parent Trap.
What to wear in London:
The shift dress
“Natasha was so beautiful and wore clothes so well. I liked the subtle, understated vibe of her wardrobe—it all seemed like it really came from the character’s closet,” says Meyers. That refined look is initially introduced to the audience via an off-white shift dress as James descends down the staircase to greet her daughter (played by Lindsay Lohan). An easy, put-together dress—like these styles from Tuckernuck, Reformation, Theory, and Everlane—can be worn while browsing the latest exhibitions at the Tate Modern, antiquing along Portobello Road, or catching a show in the West End.
The light-colored trench coat
We get a full view of James’s London look when she brings Annie (or, more accurately, Hallie) to her boutique, a scene that begins with their recreation of The Beatles’ Abbey Road album cover. Her slightly oversized trench coat is the kind of easy-to-layer, do-it-all jacket you need when venturing across the pond.
The neutral basics
James “had a confident way of dressing,” says Meyers. That confidence, as well as wardrobe versatility, can be achieved by investing in neutral tones and high-quality fabrics. In London’s warmer months, mix and match pieces made of linen or cotton—think sleeveless or breezy tops, smart trousers, midi skirts, and high-waisted shorts.
The versatile flat
We’d be remiss not to mention the character’s sophisticated slingbacks and stilettos, but you need something a bit more practical for exploring London by foot. Brands like Rothy’s, Everlane, Loeffler Randall, and Mansur Gavriel offer comfortable styles that wouldn’t feel out of place in the film. And, as an added bonus, they’ll go with most of your suitcase’s Elizabeth James–inspired contents.
The luxurious pajama
When asked about her favorite Elizabeth James fashion moment, Meyers says, “I really loved her white PJs.” For an extra dose of glamour, use your London travel plans as an excuse to upgrade your nightwear.
The button-down
The button-down has a few starring roles throughout The Parent Trap—including Annie and Hallie’s coordinating pink and salmon shirts and Chessy’s layered denim look. Elizabeth brings a couple of button-downs to California, but it’s a timeless piece that should be part of every traveler’s wardrobe—whether you’re visiting the West Coast or Great Britain.
The little black dress
“When Penny [Rose] showed me the black dress Natasha wore on the boat, I thought it was very Audrey Hepburn,” says Meyers, referencing the film’s costume designer. Both actresses made the LBD their own—with the latter giving it a decidedly ’90s moment. Slip on one of these styles from Cos, J.Crew, Abercrombie, or Universal Standard before you head out for martinis at Dukes Bar or dinner at one of London’s best restaurants.
The leather bag
Elizabeth James carried various bags throughout the film, but the roomy leather satchel she slings over her shoulder while running around London is a traveler’s dream. Find your version of her bag at Everlane, Madewell, Cuyana, or Advene.
The oval sunglasses
Richardson’s relatable “I’m not mature enough for this” line is delivered while wearing oval sunglasses, a ’90s style that has reappeared just in time for this summer. And while London may have a reputation for being gray and gloomy, you’ll regret not having a pair of shades when the sun manages to emerge during your trip.
The elevated accessory
“Penny Rose did a beautiful job—her choices always came from character,” Meyers says. The aforementioned beauty also extends to the character’s jewelry selection, which added a bit of tasteful sparkle to everything she wore. You don’t need to pack a lot of jewelry for London, though; a couple of pieces will turn a basic outfit into one that feels inherently Elizabeth James.
Still planning your trip? Check out more of our London travel recommendations:
