Margot Robbie's 'Wuthering Heights' press tour fashion is sparking a delightful debate: is it high-fashion homage or historical misstep? The buzz around Emerald Fennell's latest film, "Wuthering Heights," has been amplified not just by its trailer, but by the theatrical costumes. For those who cherish historical accuracy, the film's wardrobe might feel a bit off. However, Margot Robbie and her stylist, Andrew Mukamal, are offering a different kind of treat: a journey through period-inspired fashion on the red carpet. It's a playful nod, not a strict reenactment.
Think of their historical references like creative prompts on a dating profile – they're meant to be fun starting points, not literal truths. We've seen elements like bustles, which were quite the rage during Emily Brontë's era, though perhaps more so than for her character Cathy, who lived about 50 years prior. Corsets, lace, and chokers have also made appearances. Take, for instance, the Roberto Cavalli dress Robbie sported to launch the film's promotion. The square neckline? A whisper of Tudor England. The Fausto Puglisi necklace with its ruby pendant? Reminiscent of 18th-century portraiture. And the mini-skirt hemline? A bold leap to the '60s. Anyone seeking strict historical accuracy might find more satisfaction revisiting the "Barbie" press tour, where Robbie and Mukamal meticulously recreated iconic doll outfits. But for fashion enthusiasts, these red carpet ensembles are rich texts, inviting deep dives into their inspirations.
But here's where it gets truly fascinating: At the film's London premiere, Robbie stunned in a boned corset dress by Turkish-British designer Dilara Findikoglu. Crafted from translucent Victorian lace, the dress held a surprising, deeply personal tribute. It was adorned with braided synthetic hair, dyed to match the dishwater blonde hue of the Brontë sisters, Anne and Emily. The inspiration? Victorian mourning jewelry, which often incorporated braided hair from loved ones. On Robbie's wrist, a replica bracelet, similar to one Charlotte Brontë created after Emily and Anne's passing, served as a poignant memento mori. This practice, while seemingly morbid, made the concept of mortality tangible and, in turn, celebrated life.
Earlier in the week, at a London photo call, Robbie also channeled the late 1700s with a John Galliano brocade frock coat. Styled with a black mini skirt, vibrant scarlet stockings, and satin Manolo Blahnik pumps, the look was a striking blend of eras. The archival fur-trimmed jacket, worn as a top, was part of Galliano's iconic Spring-Summer 1992 collection. Though created in the '90s, the collection drew heavily from the romantic era of Napoleon Bonaparte and Josephine, who lived from the late 1760s to the early 1800s – the very period Brontë chose for "Wuthering Heights."
And this is the part most people miss: Mukamal has been deeply immersed in the novel, sharing his insights on Instagram. He pairs his styling work with quotes from "Wuthering Heights," offering a window into his creative process. Remember Robbie's ethereal Victoria Beckham looks earlier this year? Mukamal quoted Cathy's descent into madness, tearing pillows apart. Then, when Robbie donned a striking red snakeskin corset, jacket, and mini skirt by Dilara Findikoglu, he let Heathcliff's raw emotion speak, quoting his insult to Catherine.
While not a textbook historical recreation, it's undeniably captivating. What do you think? Is this playful interpretation of history a brilliant fashion statement, or does it detract from the source material? Let us know your thoughts below!
