Ever wonder how the iconic ’80s style of Stranger Things comes to life? It’s all thanks to the costume designer, Amy Parris, who sees herself as a storyteller. She uses clothing to subtly reveal the characters’ journeys, from their deepest emotions to their most thrilling adventures. But how does she do it? Let’s dive in!
Amy Parris, the mastermind behind the Stranger Things wardrobe, explains that costume design is more than just picking outfits; it’s about crafting a visual narrative. “We tell our version of the characters’ story; at times the story can be very obvious and other times it’s told subliminally through fabric type, how well clothing fits or how well the clothing is made,” she shared.
Parris joined the Stranger Things team for Season Three, bringing fresh ideas to the already established ’80s aesthetic. She drew inspiration from family photos and magazines of the era, aiming for a brighter, more vibrant look. This was a bold move, considering the show’s evolution into darker themes.
But here’s where it gets controversial… Season Five presents new challenges. With fewer costume changes, each outfit must tell a story, be comfortable for the actors, and be durable enough for stunts and special effects. Parris emphasizes the need for multiples of each outfit to accommodate the action-packed scenes, including blood, goo, and everything in between.
The show’s success is deeply rooted in its ’80s pop culture references. Parris drew inspiration from movies like “A Nightmare on Elm Street” and “The Goonies.” She even used films like “Three O’Clock High” and “Adventures in Babysitting” to create specific looks for new characters like Derek.
Looking back, Parris reflects on her work, including Eddie Munson’s iconic look from Season Four. She’s proud of how authentic he feels, resonating with many viewers. She also notes how the characters’ clothing evolves as they mature, with patterns and silhouettes reflecting their growth.
“You’ll find a person’s disposition can be conveyed from lighter to darker colors if they are feeling angsty, like Dustin this season,” Parris explains. “From the armor as clothing Hopper wears for protection to the training gear Eleven wears to show her new strength and ability, the clothing always complements a character’s journey.”
And this is the part most people miss… The clothing in Season Five goes through a lot, mirroring the characters’ transformations. From Eleven’s journey to Hopper’s protective gear, every piece of clothing tells a story.
Season Five of Stranger Things follows Eleven and her friends as they battle Vecna. Part One is already available, with Part Two arriving on December 25th and the series finale on December 31st.
What do you think about the importance of costumes in storytelling? Do you agree that the clothing choices effectively reflect the characters’ development? Share your thoughts in the comments!