In conclusion, costumes are used in two essential ways in the film. The first is that it reinforces the sense of normalcy and creates a background that juxtaposes and heightens the horror and drama of the film. The second use of costume in the way that Bates dresses as his mother is a complete transgression of normalcy and psychologically and socially diametrically opposed to the mundane costumes worn by the rest of the cast. This contrast is severe and serves not only to heighten the horror and shock aspects of the film but also functions to highlight and to provide insight into the twisted mind of Norman Bates.

Finally it is also interesting to note that the film was made in the 1960's, when the dress codes were more formalized and strictly related to particular social roles and norms. In this time the issue of cross-dressing and transvestitism was virtually...
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