The original script had a much darker ending
Many fans of Pretty Woman remember it as a heartwarming romantic comedy, but the film’s original script painted a much darker picture. Initially titled 3000, the screenplay by J.F. Lawton was a gritty drama that explored the harsh realities of life on the streets. Unlike the fairy-tale romance that audiences fell in love with, the original version had a far less optimistic ending.
In the early drafts, Vivian Ward, played by Julia Roberts, was not swept off her feet by Edward Lewis (Richard Gere) in a grand romantic gesture. Instead, the story concluded with Edward coldly dropping Vivian back on Hollywood Boulevard with a payment of ,000, the agreed-upon sum for their arrangement. There was no glamorous shopping spree, no opera date, and certainly no happily-ever-after. The script was a stark commentary on class differences and the struggles of sex workers, rather than a Cinderella-style transformation.
Disney’s Touchstone Pictures, which eventually produced the film, wanted a more uplifting and commercially viable story. Director Garry Marshall played a key role in reshaping the script into the beloved romantic comedy it became. He introduced humour, warmth, and a fairy-tale ending that resonated with audiences worldwide. The changes not only softened the film’s tone but also allowed Julia Roberts to showcase her charm and charisma, making Vivian one of the most iconic characters in romantic comedy history.
Despite the drastic shift in tone, elements of the original script still linger in the final film. Vivian’s struggles and vulnerability remain central to her character, and the film subtly acknowledges the challenges she faces. However, by giving the story a more hopeful resolution, Pretty Woman became a box office sensation and a defining film of the 1990s.
How Julia Roberts’ wardrobe transformed her character
One of the most memorable aspects of Pretty Woman is the way Vivian’s wardrobe evolves throughout the film, reflecting her transformation from a streetwise sex worker to a confident woman discovering her own worth. Costume designer Marilyn Vance played a crucial role in shaping this journey through fashion, carefully selecting each outfit to highlight Vivian’s growth and changing circumstances.
At the beginning of the film, Vivian’s attire is bold and revealing—her signature outfit consists of a cut-out mini dress, thigh-high boots, and a cropped jacket. This look was deliberately designed to reflect her tough, street-smart persona. The outfit, which has since become iconic, was actually a last-minute creation. The original costume was meant to be a different colour, but Vance opted for the now-famous blue and white dress to better complement Julia Roberts’ complexion and hair.
As Vivian spends more time with Edward, her wardrobe begins to shift. The pivotal shopping spree scene marks a turning point, where she trades in her streetwear for elegant, tailored pieces. The beige polka-dot dress she wears to the polo match is a prime example of this transformation—sophisticated yet playful, it signifies her growing confidence and ability to navigate Edward’s world. However, despite the outward changes, Vivian’s personality remains intact, and her charm and humour shine through regardless of what she’s wearing.
One of the most striking aspects of Vivian’s wardrobe evolution is that it never erases her individuality. Even in her more refined outfits, there are subtle nods to her original style, such as bold accessories or playful silhouettes. This careful balance ensures that her transformation feels authentic rather than forced. By the time she steps out in the breathtaking red gown for the opera, she has fully embraced her new sense of self, but she is still the same Vivian at heart.
Julia Roberts’ wardrobe in Pretty Woman not only helped define her character but also left a lasting impact on fashion. Many of the film’s looks, from the thigh-high boots to the elegant evening gowns, have remained iconic decades later. The film’s costumes played a crucial role in telling Vivian’s story, proving that fashion can be a powerful tool in character development.
The surprising story behind the iconic red dress
Few dresses in film history are as instantly recognisable as the stunning red gown Vivian wears to the opera in Pretty Woman. The off-the-shoulder design, paired with white gloves and a dazzling diamond necklace, cemented Julia Roberts’ character as a true Cinderella figure. However, this now-iconic dress almost didn’t make it into the film.
Originally, costume designer Marilyn Vance had envisioned Vivian wearing a black dress for the opera scene. The idea was to keep the look classic and sophisticated, in line with the elegant setting. However, the film’s creative team felt that black didn’t have the impact they were looking for. They wanted something that would make Vivian stand out, something that would symbolise her transformation and newfound confidence. After much debate, they decided on red—but even then, the process wasn’t straightforward.
Finding the perfect shade of red proved to be a challenge. The team tested multiple fabrics and hues to ensure the dress would look striking on camera without clashing with Julia Roberts’ complexion or the film’s lighting. The final choice was a deep, rich red that exuded both glamour and warmth. The dress was custom-made to fit Roberts perfectly, with a structured bodice that highlighted her silhouette while maintaining an air of sophistication.
One of the most memorable moments involving the dress wasn’t even scripted. In the scene where Edward presents Vivian with the diamond necklace, Richard Gere playfully snaps the jewellery box shut as she reaches for it. Julia Roberts’ surprised laugh was completely genuine, and director Garry Marshall loved the reaction so much that he decided to keep it in the final cut. This spontaneous moment added an extra layer of charm to an already magical scene.
The red dress has since become one of the most celebrated costumes in film history, inspiring countless recreations and tributes. It perfectly encapsulates Vivian’s journey—elegant yet bold, refined yet full of personality. More than just a beautiful gown, it represents her transformation and the confidence she gains throughout the film. Decades later, it remains a defining image of Pretty Woman and a testament to the power of costume design in storytelling.
Behind-the-scenes secrets of *Pretty Woman
When *Pretty Woman* hit cinemas in 1990, it became an instant classic, but what many don’t realise is just how much went on behind the scenes to bring this beloved film to life. From unexpected casting choices to last-minute wardrobe decisions, the making of this film was anything but predictable.
Originally, *Pretty Woman* was meant to be a much darker film, focusing on the harsh realities of life on the streets. The script, initially titled *3000*, painted a grittier picture of Vivian Ward’s world. However, when Disney took over production, the tone shifted dramatically, transforming the film into the modern-day fairytale we know today.
Julia Roberts wasn’t the first choice for the role of Vivian. A-list actresses including Michelle Pfeiffer, Meg Ryan, and Daryl Hannah were all considered before Roberts, then a relatively unknown actress, landed the part. Her undeniable charm and infectious smile ultimately won over the filmmakers, making her the perfect Vivian.
One of the most iconic scenes in the film—the moment Edward snaps the jewellery box shut on Vivian’s fingers—wasn’t scripted. Richard Gere improvised the playful move, and Roberts’ genuine laughter was so endearing that the director decided to keep it in the final cut. This spontaneous moment became one of the most memorable in romantic comedy history.
Even the film’s fashion had its own behind-the-scenes drama. The now-iconic red opera gown almost didn’t happen. Costume designer Marilyn Vance originally envisioned a black dress for the pivotal scene at the opera, but director Garry Marshall insisted on red. After multiple fittings and fabric tests, the final design became one of the most recognisable gowns in film history.
From unexpected casting twists to last-minute wardrobe changes, the magic of *Pretty Woman* wasn’t just in the script—it was in the details that made it unforgettable.
The story behind the film’s unforgettable costumes
Few films have left as lasting an impact on fashion as *Pretty Woman*. From Vivian’s thigh-high boots to that unforgettable red gown, every outfit told a story—one of transformation, confidence, and timeless glamour. Costume designer Marilyn Vance was the mastermind behind these iconic looks, carefully curating a wardrobe that would not only define Vivian’s journey but also influence fashion for decades to come.
One of the most recognisable outfits in the film is Vivian’s streetwear ensemble—her cut-out blue-and-white dress paired with patent leather thigh-high boots. This look was deliberately designed to reflect her life at the start of the film. The boots, which became a signature piece, were reportedly sourced from a bargain bin on Hollywood Boulevard for just . Today, thigh-high boots remain a wardrobe staple, proving the enduring influence of this bold fashion choice.
As Vivian’s character evolves, so does her wardrobe. The transformation is most evident in the elegant polka-dot dress she wears to the polo match. This brown-and-white number, cinched at the waist and paired with a matching hat, exudes sophistication while maintaining a playful charm. The dress became so iconic that it continues to inspire designers and high-street brands, with modern versions frequently appearing in seasonal collections.
Of course, no discussion of *Pretty Woman*’s fashion would be complete without mentioning the breathtaking red opera gown. Initially, the dress was meant to be black, but director Garry Marshall insisted on a more striking colour. The final design, with its off-the-shoulder neckline and dramatic draping, was custom-made for Julia Roberts and has since become one of the most celebrated gowns in cinematic history. The look was completed with white opera gloves and a dazzling diamond necklace, cementing Vivian’s transformation into a true Hollywood fairytale.
Vance’s approach to costuming was meticulous, ensuring that every outfit not only suited the character’s journey but also resonated with audiences. The film’s wardrobe continues to inspire fashion lovers worldwide, proving that great style is truly timeless.