The Acolyte: A Fashionable Journey Through the High Republic
Disney+’s new Star Wars series, The Acolyte, has captivated audiences with its intriguing story set during the High Republic era, a time of peace and prosperity before the rise of the Empire. But one aspect that has truly stood out is the show’s stunning costuming, a feat achieved by the talented costume designer, Jennifer L. Bryan. Bryan, known for her work on shows like Breaking Bad and Halt & Catch Fire, brings a unique blend of inspiration to The Acolyte, resulting in costumes that are both visually striking and deeply connected to the characters’ backgrounds and stories.
Drawing inspiration from both previous Star Wars media and real-world historical influences, Bryan and her team have crafted a wardrobe that embodies the essence of the High Republic while also pushing the boundaries of what we’ve come to expect from Star Wars fashion. The result is a diverse array of outfits that reflect the different cultures and identities within this era, from the sleek, modern aesthetic of the Republic to the more traditional, hand-crafted styles of those living on the outer rim.
Let’s delve into some of the most notable costume designs in The Acolyte and the stories behind them:
Osha: Played by Amandla Stenberg, Osha’s primary outfit is a striking combination of a flight suit and mechanic coveralls, a nod to her role as a pilot and mechanic. Bryan explains that the design was influenced by the clothing worn by soldiers during the Vietnam War, reflecting the era’s sense of practicality and functionality. The color palette of Osha’s outfit is also significant, with its subdued tones of grey and green suggesting both her dedication to her work and a certain sense of mystery.
Mae: Osha’s sister, Mae, is portrayed by Charlie Barnett, and her attire presents a stark contrast to Osha’s. Mae’s look draws heavily on warrior tribes from East and North Africa, as well as various empires across Asian and European history, lending a sense of ancient power and mystique to the character. Bryan describes Mae’s outfit as "cobbled together" from different elements, reflecting her past experiences and her determination to survive. The bamboo strips across her chest are reminiscent of samurai armor, while her chainmail arms and cloak are inspired by Byzantine knights and Roman gladiators. The inclusion of chainmail, a rare sight in Star Wars, is a deliberate choice, highlighting the importance of protection in a world on the brink of change. Mae’s primary color, purple, is a "memory color" that symbolizes her connection to her family and their shared past.
Qimir: The character Qimir, a mysterious figure with a dark past, is portrayed by Manny Jacinto. His costume reflects his allegiance to the Sith, drawing heavily on the visual language of Darth Vader and Kylo Ren. Qimir’s attire features layers of flowing black robes, reminiscent of the traditional Sith attire, paired with sleek, modern combat gear, suggesting his mastery of both power and technology. Bryan emphasizes the importance of agility and athleticism in Qimir’s costume, ensuring that the character can move with ease and grace in battle. A particular highlight is Qimir’s hand-sculpted cortosis gauntlet, a unique piece of armor that signifies his strength and his unique place within the galaxy’s power structures.
Indara: The character of Indara, played by Jodie Turner-Smith, embodies the elegance and sophistication of the Republic era. Her costume is heavily inspired by Princess Leia’s iconic white gown, with its flowing lines and ethereal beauty. The ivory color of Indara’s outfit is a symbol of purity and nobility, reflecting her status as a respected member of the Republic. However, the layers of her costume are not just for show, as Bryan designed them with Indara’s action scenes in mind, allowing for both fluidity and strength in movement. This duality mirrors Indara’s own character, who navigates the complexities of the High Republic with both grace and determination.
The Acolyte’s costume design is not just about aesthetics; it serves as a powerful tool for storytelling. Each character’s attire reveals their identity, their past, and their potential. Through Bryan’s meticulous attention to detail and her innovative use of historical and cultural references, The Acolyte has created a visual language that is both captivating and deeply resonant.
Here are some additional highlights of The Acolyte’s costume design:
- The use of materials and textures: Bryan’s team employed a wide range of fabrics and textures to create a sense of depth and richness in their costumes. From the sleek leather of Osha’s flight suit to the flowing silk of Indara’s gowns, each material adds another layer of character and complexity to the designs.
- The inclusion of intricate details: Many of the costumes feature intricate embroidery, embellishments, and accessories that add visual interest and provide further clues to the characters’ backstories. For example, Mae’s outfit incorporates a variety of beads, charms, and symbols that suggest her nomadic heritage and her connection to the mystical side of the Force.
- The celebration of diversity: The Acolyte showcases a diverse range of characters and cultures, and the costume design reflects this commitment to inclusivity. From the intricate braids and headdresses of the alien races to the bold colors and patterns of the human characters, each outfit celebrates the unique identity of its wearer.
In conclusion, The Acolyte is a triumph of costume design, blending historical inspiration with a deep understanding of Star Wars lore. The result is a visually stunning and deeply engaging world that not only captivates audiences but also adds a new layer of depth and intrigue to the fascinating history of the High Republic. As the series continues, we can expect more innovative and captivating costume designs that will continue to push the boundaries of Star Wars fashion and storytelling.
