Helmed by Greek director Yorgos Lanthimos, known for his surreal black comedies like The Lobster (2015) and The Favourite (2018), Poor Things is an eagerly awaited Victorian-era science fiction film set to premiere in December 2023 in the United States. Starring the talented Emma Stone, this fantastical movie is inspired by the 1992 novel of the same name by Scottish author Alasdair Gray.
Emma portrays Bella Baxter, a young woman reanimated in a manner reminiscent of Frankenstein, thanks to the eccentric genius Dr. Godwin Baxter. After her brain is exchanged with that of her unborn fetus, Bella embodies a childlike spirit and behavior. Yearning for the wonders beyond London, she embarks on a hedonistic, exhilarating escapade across Europe, accompanied by the charming yet morally dubious lawyer, Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo).
Poor Things is set in a visually striking steampunk world adorned with lavish Victorian-era costumes and opulent mansions. It’s important to differentiate steampunk from cyberpunk; the former is a subgenre of science fiction that showcases an aesthetic reminiscent of the industrial revolution of the 19th century. Many works within this genre draw from literary giants such as Jules Verne and H.G. Wells.
Steampunk fashion heavily reflects Victorian aesthetics, incorporating elements like bustles, corsets, gowns, petticoats, waistcoats, top hats, bowler hats, and military attire. Accessories from the period include pocket watches, parasols, goggles, and even gas masks. Steampunk ensembles often receive a clockwork or Gothic twist to accentuate their sci-fi essence.
From the Poor Things trailer, it’s evident that the opulent costumes feature dramatic puff sleeves, ruffles, exaggerated cuts, and vibrant monochromatic palettes. Below are four Halloween-inspired outfits that draw from the steampunk flair evident in Poor Things, each highlighting different elements of the genre.
The Dark Take
The Poor Things trailer includes moments when Bella is dressed entirely in black, giving an air of mourning. This ensemble blends dark Lolita influences with steampunk by combining a fluffy tiered black dress with a men’s tailcoat. A black bonnet and lace stiletto boots finish off this striking, monochromatic look, offering an aristocratic touch.
The Fantasy Take
In several outfits, Bella is adorned in cheerful yellow, embodying her youthful naivety. The whimsical steampunk look described above juxtaposes a dreamy yellow dress with a black shrug and industrial-style strappy boots, echoing the belt’s buckled yellow design. A pearl brooch accentuates the neckline.
The Quirky Take
This quirky steampunk outfit is inspired by Bella’s scene where she experiments with goggles. The puff sleeves on the ruffled shirt and the wide-legged pants create a playful contrast, underscoring Bella’s eccentric character. Faux leather aviator goggles and strappy tall boots add an edgy vibe to the ensemble.
The Vintage Take
In one scene from the trailer, Bella is depicted in a relaxed outfit while lounging on a deck chair with a book in hand, engaging in conversation. This attire, inspired by that moment, features a cozy ribbed-knit sweater paired with a brown leather skirt, complete with a harness and a boxy bag with gold accents, creating a vintage vibe. The rabbit charm on the bag subtly reflects Bella’s youthful nature.
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