Outfits and wigs worn by Elizabeth Taylor in "Cleopatra" and Kirsten Dunst in "Marie Antoinette" have gone on show in the US capital in a salute to the skills of Italian costumers.

"Star Wigs: The Italian Hand Creates," which runs through May 11 at the Italian embassy in Washington, brings together 100-odd creations from such famous Italian houses as Rochetti and Rochetti, Peruzzi and Farani.

"'Star Wigs' showcases the excellence of Italian firms, appreciated internationally," said Italian Ambassador Claudio Bisogniero, who is hosting the exhibition as part of a year-long US celebration of Italian culture.

"Their work, consisting of making beautiful wigs and impressive costumes and dresses, is crucial in shaping and bringing to life complex characters in movies, as well as on theater stages."

Among other items on display are the skull-hugging wig Donald Sutherland wore in "Fellini's Casanova," headpieces from Baz Luhrmann's "Moulin Rouge" and Jane Fonda's metal bikini from "Barbarella."

Guido Torlonia's recent documentary "Handmade Cinema," which casts a spotlight on Italian film artisans over the decades, accompanies the show.