Top 10 Shows with EPIC Costume Design

Since each season of this fantastical show has a radically different theme, the series has seen a wide range of costumes. From the witchy attire in "Coven" to Lady Gaga's Countess looks in "Hotel” and the colorful outfits in "1984,” each installment has boasted instantly memorable looks. Players like the nuns in “Asylum” and the Rubber Man in “Murder House” simply wouldn’t be what they are without their iconic costumes. Lou Eyrich, the designer for much of the show’s run, has spoken about loving projects that balance period and contemporary fashions. It comes as no surprise that she loves building pieces for these eccentric characters year after year.

It’s not uncommon for assassins to be decked out in signature looks. However, this spy thriller makes sure all these hit women look their best. Jodie Comer’s Villanelle is a particular stand out amongst the cast. She constantly displays her independent streak through bold clothing choices that eschew the sleek utility we’d expect in her profession. While the show is packed with action, espionage, and has a great plot, the inventive and striking costumes are a huge draw in their own right. Some have even speculated that the uptick in pink dresses worn at the 91st Academy Awards was owed to a particular billowing gown of Villanelle’s.

Viewers can instantly tell this comedy-drama series is set in the 1980s thanks to the costumes. The show follows multiple characters as they work on the set of the “Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling.” Emmy-nominated costume designer Beth Morgan outfitted the players in things like leg warmers, parachute pants and tight-fitting spandex. She also boasted a unique styling philosophy. Instead of focusing on making every character look like a fashion model, she made sure each of their outfits best expressed their personalities. The thought and research put behind these period getups is plain to see in every fame.

This historical drama series follows a family and their sprawling estate in the English countryside. Throughout the show, the upstairs-downstairs divide of the family and their employees is a crucial aspect of the show. The disparity of wealth is perfectly portrayed through theirr attire. Costume designer Anna Robbins aimed to make the show’s garments as historically accurate as possible whenever she worked on the show or film. She got inspiration from sources like period photographs, text and portraits. As the series stretched from the 1910s into the ‘20s, the immaculate garments always reflected social divides and what was accurate for the time.

“Sex and the City” chronicled the lives of four New York City women as they navigated dating, relationships, and their own desires. Fashion is hugely important to all of their journeys. Manolo Blahnik shoes are basically one of the show’s biggest supporting characters. There were also narratives focused on style-related matters like starring runway shows or finding the perfect wedding ring. Before consulting on the set of “Emily in Paris,” costume designer Patricia Field created countless memorable ensembles over six seasons. Each member of the main cast had their own signature style to bring to the screen. Outlets like “The New York Times” have even credited the series with further popularizing items like nameplate necklaces and flower corsages.

A series focused on New York City’s underground ballroom culture in the ‘80s and ‘90s was guaranteed to feature amazing looks. Frequent Ryan Murphy collaborator Lou Eyrich and Analucia McGorty costumed the series. In some cases, costume items came from McGorty’s closet. They helped make sure Blanca, Elektra, and Pray Tell sported truly incredible outfits while walking categories and emceeing. The outfits the characters wear in quieter and more intimate moments also boast authentic period touches. It’s fitting that the series began with House of Abundance burgling royal garments from a museum. This plot point set the tone for many stunning fashion moments to come.

As we travelled through the realm of Westeros, it was clear that each region of the land boasted a different fashion sense. While the Northern-dwelling characters might sport leathers and furs, King’s Landing resident Cersei wears countless gowns fit for a queen. And let’s not forget about all that armor! Although the costumes are regionally specific and reflect social status, they’re also thoughtful in other ways. For instance, Sansa’s attire memorably evolves as she overcomes serious personal and political hurdles. The show’s world wouldn’t be nearly as immersive without costume designer Michele Clapton’s inspired work.

In “Outlander”, Claire is transported from 1945 Scotland to the year 1743. The show’s dual timelines demand multiple kinds of period costumes for vastly different contexts. As the setting of the Scottish highlands transition to luxe 18th-century Paris in Season 2, the clothing did too. Organic materials and muted colors get replaced by a more varied palette. When the characters relocate to the American colonies, we see even more changes. Designer Terry Dresbach has said that around 98 percent of the series’s costumes were made in-house. Knowing that they built so much of the show from the ground up makes the wardrobe on display even more impressive.

One of the most expensive TV shows of all time is overflowing with sumptuous and eye-catching fashion. This series takes us through Elizabeth II’s life from the years before her coronation through to various events of the 20th century. The show’s constantly blends historical accuracy with speculation about what royals wear when they’re away from the public eye. Whether the plot is focused on the Queen in private moments or Princess Diana in her famous wedding gown, the costumes always look amazing. Although the title of costume designer has changed hands, viewers have been treated to consistently incredible work.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Reign” (2013-17)
Designer Collections & Fast Fashion Brands Influence All of Mary, Queen of Scots’ Wardrobe

“Scream Queens” (2015-16)
Lou Eyrich Dressed the Ladies of Kappa Kappa Tau in Lavish Pastels

“The Tudors” (2007-10)
Some of These Gorgeous Garments Took up to Two and a Half Weeks to Make

“Harlots” (2017-19)
While the 18th-Century Wardrobe Isn’t Always Completely Accurate, It Certainly Is Striking

“The Great” (2020-)
Costumes Help Chronicle Catherine the Great’s Journey From Idealistic Young Girl to Cunning Strategist

While the series was becoming one of the most-watched shows on Netflix, it was also receiving praise for its lavish costumes. This Netflix period drama follows the expansive Bridgerton family and the aristocratic class known as the “ton” in 1813 London. Co-designer Ellen Mirojnick’s philosophy involved bringing a modern twist to Regency-era fashions. While the clothes may not be totally historically accurate, the revved-up color scheme and luxurious fabrics certainly pack a punch. Although the Bridgertons are outfitted in a softer palette, the looks are still jaw-dropping. And the Featheringtons also dress boldly too. With countless swoon-worthy gowns on display, this show is a true feast for the eyes.