Sogo Citizen Costume
Barbarella
This costume appeared in Roger Vadim’s 1968 cult sci-fi classic movie Barbarella.
The film is celebrated for its distinctive production design, imaginative costuming and campy aesthetics. It is also, of course, the origin of the name taken by Birmingham New Romantic band Duran Duran, named after the film’s villain.
The costume can be seen being worn by a citizen of the city of Sogo after Barbarella arrives having been flown there by Pygar the angel.
The costume, designed by Jacques Fonteray and made by Sartoria Farani of Rome, is part of a verified set of screen-worn Sogo citizen ensembles from Barbarella. A matching green cotton bodysuit is also part of this collection but is not featured in this exhibition this year. Written on the Farani label inside the costume is the word RUBEO. This refers to the Rubeo family, a prominent dynasty in Italian cinematic costume and production design.
The costume has not been displayed previously in Shenstone having only been acquired for the collection in December 2025.
This dress can be clearly identified in the film but the actress who wore it was part of a crowd scene and as such was uncredited. The film is 60 years old and it has not been possible to ascertain the name of the actress, although she was probably Italian as the film was shot entirely in Rome and extras were employed locally.
Unknown Extra
