‘Euphoria,’ ‘Qala,’ ‘Do Revenge,’ And More Films And Series Push Fashion As The New Storyteller

Where are men here?

By Jasveen Kaur Sawhney Updated January 18, 2023

In the latest string of narratives, that have been making waves with impressive storylines, one thing that has remained common, is the intelligent incorporation of costume design. Using fashion as a mode to build the character’s look and certainly help push the plot forward, shows like Euphoria, and films closer to home like–Qala are using fashion as a storyteller. From delightful drapes to glossy eye makeup, many shows in the recent past have been seeking help from designers to go beyond the usual drill of dressing up. Besides making trends, most narratives have used costume design as a window to the character’s story. Weaving more depth and pocketing details in the name of Easter eggs, we’re happy to see this new love for detailed costume design in cinema. Flag-bearers of change are women, playing leading roles in each of these films and shows, curating interesting trends. But where are all the men at? Anyways, for every fashion nerd, who is also a movie buff at heart, bookmark these films/shows to nurture your love for both.

Qala

Closer to home, Netflix’s latest release–Qala, tells the tale of a mother-daughter duo, painting the scars with the brightest of stars. Starring Triptii Dimri, Babil Khan and Swastika Mukherjee, the film’s costume design by Veera Kapur is beyond spectacular. From vintage drapes reminiscing the nostalgia of the 1920s to using motifs like the moth as the leading character in every silhouette, the film’s costume design is a genius effort made by fashion, in a long time.

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Euphoria

HBO’s hit show–Euphoria, has already garnered love and appreciation from both audiences and critics. Starring Zendaya in the lead, the show packages the regular teen drama into a unique format, with art resting at its core. Especially with makeup leading the way in every episode, makeup artist Doniella Davy gathered much-needed appreciation for introducing the world to some interesting trends like–emotional glam, face jewels, and sassy nails. From glitter tears to Zendaya’s yellow t-shirt in the previous season’s last episode, Euphoria used fashion to seal hidden meanings.

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Bridgerton

The latest season of Bridgerton was not only flavoured with diversity but helped bring desi Indian culture under the spotlight. Designed by Sophie Canale, the Sharma sisters wore their Indian roots, mixed with their British upbringing through their saree-esqué gowns and rose gold jewellery. Besides that, Simone’s Kate Sharma chose more romantic colours, and lovely hair curls as she visibly fell deeply and madly in love with Anthony Bridgerton.

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Gangubai Kathiawadi

Filmmaker Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s cinematic genius gathered love from around the world. From a premiere at the Berlinale to winning every major award, Bhansali presented the story of Gangubai Kathiawadi, with Alia Bhatt leading the film on her shoulders. From the sets to the promotions, what caught our attention was Alia endorsing the Gangu-white. With costumes designed by Sheetal Sharma, Alia as Gangu played with an elaborate collection of white sarees, through swiftly shifting embroidery types to depict her situation in the film. With florals for romance and red borders for the big win, Sharma gave a deeper meaning to the swan colour.

Only Murders In The Building

With Selena Gomez taking the centre stage as Mabel, costume designer–Dana Covarrubias experimented with a splash of fall colours to style the main lead. And paying homage to Mabel’s Mexican-American background was Selena wearing marigold-yellow in almost every scene. From a yellow beanie to a locket representing marigold, the motif and the shade symbolised the brevity of life, as popularly known by the cultures.

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Also Read: Exclusive: Costume Designer Veera Kapur On Dressing Triptii Dimri, Babil Khan, And Building The World Of ‘Qala

Do Revenge

Paying homage to the sweet style trends of the 90s, Netflix’s Do Revenge follows every little detail from the era. From Camila Mendes’ hair inspired by style icons from the year to Maya Hawke’s Eleanor following the signature makeover trope in movies, Do Revenge paid tribute to the 90s through colours, silhouettes and significant incorporation of coral red eyeliner to represent the chaos in character Drea’s life.