"Big Little Lies" (2017) Fashion Moments: Iconic Outfits That Stole the Show
Introduction
HBO’s "Big Little Lies," premiering in 2017, became an instant cultural phenomenon, not only for its thrilling storyline and powerhouse performances but also for its impeccable fashion. This series, based on Liane Moriarty’s novel, showcases a striking array of sartorial choices that add depth to each character, becoming a visual narrative all on their own. The fashion in "Big Little Lies" was not just an accessory to the plot but a crucial element that amplified character development and contextualized the affluent, complicated lives of Monterey’s elite. This article explores the significance of the show’s fashion moments, analyzing themes, styles, and cultural influences that make it an indelible part of fashion history.
Themes and Styles
The fashion in "Big Little Lies" cleverly mirrors the nuanced complexities of its characters and the social fabric of Monterey’s high society. Costume designer Alix Friedberg curated a wardrobe that was as diverse and multidimensional as the ensemble cast. Here’s a deep dive into the themes and styles that defined the show’s iconic outfits:
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Wealth and Privilege: The affluent setting of Monterey allows for an exploration of luxury fashion. Characters like Madeline (Reese Witherspoon) and Renata (Laura Dern) frequently don haute couture, high-end designers, and statement pieces that scream opulence. Their wardrobes reflect their need to project success and control.
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Individual Identity: Each character’s sartorial choices are a direct reflection of their personality and evolution across the series. Celeste (Nicole Kidman) often wears soft, flowing fabrics, reflecting her internal struggle and the facade of the perfect wife. Jane (Shailene Woodley) favors more utilitarian, casual outfits that highlight her outsider status and pragmatic nature.
- Cultural Influences: The costumes are heavily influenced by the rich cultural backdrop of California, mixing bohemian elements with high fashion. Character wardrobes blend local craft aesthetics with global luxury brands, a testament to Monterey’s unique cultural milieu.
Notable Fashion Moments
To understand the full impact of "Big Little Lies" on fashion, it’s essential to delve into some specific designs and moments that stood out:
Madeline’s Power Wardrobe
Madeline Martha Mackenzie, played by Reese Witherspoon, is the quintessential power mom whose wardrobe is a rich tapestry of vivid colors, bold prints, and structured silhouettes. Designers like Isabel Marant and Diane von Furstenburg regularly feature in Madeline’s closet, exemplifying her vibrant, assertive personality. One notable example is her red wrap dress by Michael Kors, symbolizing her fiery nature and uncompromising stance on issues close to her heart.
Celeste’s Elegantly Dissonant Choices
Nicole Kidman’s character Celeste Wright is a study in contrasts, and her wardrobe reflects the duality of her existence. Often seen in soft, ethereal pieces by designers like The Row and Valentino, Celeste’s attire belies the turbulence beneath her composed exterior. One striking piece is the white lace dress she wears to the school function, portraying a facade of purity and perfection even as her life unravels.
Renata’s Boardroom Power Dressing
Laura Dern’s Renata Klein redefines power dressing for the modern, corporate woman. Clad in sharp suits from designers like Alexander McQueen and tailored dresses by Victoria Beckham, Renata’s clothes become symbolic of her fierce tenacity and unyielding demeanor. Her vibrant jewel-toned outfits during boardroom scenes emphasize her desire to dominate and control her environment.
Jane’s Relatable Casual Wear
In stark contrast, Shailene Woodley’s Jane Chapman embodies a more grounded aesthetic, often opting for jeans, plaid shirts, and durable boots. Brands like Madewell and J.Crew are prevalent in her wardrobe, resonating with viewers familiar with dressing for practicality and modesty. This subtle styling helps to underline Jane’s distance from the opulence that defines her peers’ lives.
Cultural, Social, and Historical Context
The fashion in "Big Little Lies" is more than just eye candy; it reflects broader cultural and social dynamics. The show’s wardrobe choices underscore themes of empowerment, identity, and societal roles. For instance, Celeste’s designer garments contrast sharply with her concealed domestic abuse, highlighting the chasm between public perception and private reality. The tendency of the rich, seemingly perfect characters to wear luxury brands and maintain a polished exterior mirrors real-world societal pressures to conform to certain standards of wealth and success.
Moreover, the series subtly critiques the excesses of wealth and privilege through its characters’ sartorial extravagance. Renata’s opulent outfits juxtaposed against her personal battles, for instance, serve as a critique of the American Dream and the often unspoken cost of maintaining such facades.
Legacy and Lasting Influence
"Big Little Lies" has left an enduring mark on the fashion industry and popular culture. The show’s meticulous costume design has inspired fashion collections, with designers citing the series as a muse for blending luxury with everyday wear. Furthermore, fans often imitate the characters’ styles, and fashion blogs continue to decode the looks, illustrating the show’s lasting influence.
The integration of fashion into the storytelling of "Big Little Lies" has elevated the role of costume design in television, proving that outfits are not mere embellishments but pivotal to character and narrative development. Furthermore, it has underscored the potential of television as a significant medium for fashion’s cultural dissemination, rivaling traditional platforms like the runway.
Reflective Questions and Takeaways
As we reflect on the fashion legacy of "Big Little Lies," several questions arise that highlight its contemporary relevance:
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How does fashion in media shape our understanding of societal roles and individual identity? The show illustrates that clothing is not just personal but political and social, offering a critical lens through which to view the characters’ struggles and aspirations.
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What can we learn from the juxtaposition of opulence and underlying turmoil in character wardrobes? This brings to light the disconnect between outward appearances and hidden realities, a theme that resonates deeply in our social media-dominated culture.
- In what ways can television influence fashion trends and reshape industry norms? "Big Little Lies" demonstrates the power of television as a fashion influencer, potentially altering consumer behaviors and fashion marketing strategies.
In conclusion, "Big Little Lies" has woven its sartorial narrative into the fabric of fashion history, leaving an indelible mark. Its costumes have served not merely as props but as integral elements of storytelling, reflecting and influencing cultural dialogues about wealth, identity, and societal expectations. As viewers and fashion enthusiasts, we are invited to ponder the broader implications of fashion in our lives and its power to tell complex, human stories in visually compelling ways.
Final Takeaway
The next time you watch "Big Little Lies," look beyond the drama and intrigue to the threads that bind the narrative together. Consider how each outfit tells a story of its own, layered with meaning and reflective of the characters’ deeper truths. In doing so, we gain a richer, more nuanced understanding of the show’s cultural and fashion legacy.
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