Four Post-Apocalyptic Style Lessons We Learned From The Hunger Games Movie

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The Hunger Games opened this week with monster box office success (to the tune of $155 million—the third highest domestic opening weekend of all time) and though there's plenty to talk about on all fronts (did you miss Madge? Was Peeta cute enough? How scary was that dog?) the movie actually has much to teach us about fashion. Check out four post-apocalyptic style lessons we learned from The Hunger Games, after the jump.

1. Nicki Minaj Could Easily Be a Citizen of the Capitol: In The Hunger Games, the residents of the wealthy Capitol dress like some combination of dandies and 1998 Harujuku girls. While the book leaves their styling partly to the imagination, in the movie, the bright super-permed hair, elaborate eyes, and crazy hats make quite the statement. We couldn't help but feel that maybe The Hunger Games is making a point about the way pop stars live now. Are Nicki Minaj and Lady Gaga the first wave of Capitol citizens? If so—and here's a better question—which one do you think would win a Hunger Game?

2. Never Underestimate the Power of Accessories: When Katniss' sister Primrose is terrified of being picked to compete in the Hunger Games, Katniss gives her that famous mockingjay pin to soothe her. Of course, being the best big sister in the history of the universe, Katniss ends up taking Prim's place as a Hunger Games tribute, and the lucky pin goes with her. In fact, she is never never without it for the duration of the movie. Does it keep her safe? Who's to say! Does it look awesome—sort of retro-futurist, Communism chic? Indisputably.

3. Go Big or Go Home: When Katniss and Peeta enter the stadium for the Hunger Games Opening Ceremonies, their stylist Cinna creates costumes that make it look as though they are literally on fire, an effect he replicates for Katniss' television interview dress. Do you remember what anyone else wore to either event? You do not. The lesson here? Let's all set ourselves on fire! Metaphorically, not literally!

4. Braids Aren't Going Anywhere: Fact: Braids were all over spring runways. Fact: The Hunger Games makes braids look good, from the elaborate updo Katniss wears to the Reaping to her one-sided fishtail during the Games. Prediction: we're going to be seeing a million variations on each all summer long. (And in case you missed it, here's how to do it.—Leila Cohan-Miccio

· 3 DIY Beauty Tutorials That Would Make Katniss Everdeen Proud [Racked]
· All Hunger Games Coverage [Racked]