Funny Bloopers, Real Jewels, and On-Set Magic: More Secrets from Pretty Woman

Beyond its fairytale love story, Pretty Woman is full of amusing bloopers and behind-the-scenes tales that make it even more enjoyable to rewatch. One of the film’s most talked-about moments — the jewelry box snapping shut on Vivian’s fingers — wasn’t scripted at all. Richard Gere and director Garry Marshall staged it as a lighthearted prank on Julia Roberts, hoping to capture her genuine reaction. Her surprised laugh was so natural that the scene became one of the film’s most iconic moments.
The fashion in Pretty Woman played a vital role in telling Vivian’s story, with costume designer Marilyn Vance creating pieces that symbolized transformation and empowerment. Her striking red opera gown remains one of the most famous dresses in movie history, while the brown polka-dot outfit worn at the horse races was made from vintage silk discovered in a small Los Angeles fabric shop. Even Edward’s wardrobe had subtle quirks — his tie changed knots between scenes, a small continuity error that eagle-eyed fans continue to spot.
Another amusing blooper comes after the opera scene. When Vivian removes Edward’s shoes, they mysteriously reappear moments later. Likewise, when she hides money in her boot, it vanishes in a later shot. Even small props, like the colorful condoms Vivian shows Edward, seem to shuffle around between cuts — a reminder that movie magic sometimes includes a little chaos.
Not all the movie’s details were accidental, though. The ruby-and-diamond necklace Julia Roberts wore with her red gown was real, valued at around $250,000 and protected by armed security throughout filming. The authenticity helped heighten the sense of luxury and glamour that defines some of the film’s most memorable scenes.
Despite these slip-ups, Pretty Woman’s imperfections are part of what makes it so timeless. Richard Gere later joked that Edward was “just a suit with a good haircut,” yet his improvisation — including the piano scene — added warmth to the character. And Julia Roberts’ charisma, humor, and sincerity turned Vivian into one of cinema’s most loved heroines.
The enduring charm of Pretty Woman lies in its humanity — a mix of heart, humor, and happenstance that even its bloopers can’t diminish. In fact, those tiny errors have become part of its legend, proof that sometimes, cinematic perfection is found in the most unexpected moments.