Some may tire of “method dressing” — where actors align their fashion choices with their roles — but character-inspired fashion remains prevalent. Last year, Margot Robbie and her stylist Andrew Mukamal coordinated outfits for the “Barbie” press tour, inspired by doll wardrobes. Zendaya wore tennis-inspired outfits before her film “Challengers,” while Lady Gaga’s Harley Quinn look for “Joker: Folie à Deux” included bold makeup and striped hair.
Now, Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande bring “Wicked” to life with Erivo in green and Grande in pink, aligning their press tour wardrobes with their characters, Elphaba and Glinda. At the Los Angeles premiere, Erivo wore a custom green Louis Vuitton cut-out dress with a matching stole, while Grande donned a crystal-embellished pink gingham Thom Browne dress. The color scheme has continued since the Academy Awards, with Grande and Erivo in hues reflecting their roles at various events.
Designer Thom Browne crafted multiple Glinda-inspired looks for Grande, while Louis Vuitton tailored several green pieces for Erivo. However, some critics on social media suggest this extended campaign has made the red carpet feel like a prolonged dress rehearsal, leaving little room for their authentic styles.
Still, a subtle shift in method dressing could allow for more nuanced character references without limiting personality. Jonathan Bailey, playing Prince Fiyero in “Wicked,” recently added a hint of the fantastical to his look, wearing a silver chainmail shirt and red loafers — a nod to his character, but true to his unique style.
