One of the most captivating elements of the globally renowned series “Downton Abbey” is its meticulous attention to sartorial history. The show doesn’t just transport viewers to a bygone era through its gripping storylines but also through its historically accurate period costumes.
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The Role of Costume Designers
Downton Abbey owes its fashion accuracy to the genius of lead costume designers like Susannah Buxton, Rosalind Ebutt, Caroline McCall, and Anna Robbins. Their dedication ensured that characters, whether they were from the aristocratic Crawley family or the diligent downstairs staff, dressed impeccably in the styles of the 1910s and 1920s.
The series beautifully captures the stark contrast in fashion between its initial seasons and the subsequent ones. For instance, in Season 1, characters like Matthew and Lord Grantham consistently wore white ties for dinner scenes. However, as the series progressed and mirrored the war’s impact, we saw them in dresses or even informal dinner jackets. This shift wasn’t just limited to the men. Sybil Crawley’s mention of her gowns being from the season before the war subtly highlighted the halt in luxury and the onset of austerity.
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The war brought about significant changes in women’s fashion. The once long, waist-defining gowns gave way to dresses with rising hemlines and looser fits, symbolizing the need for practicality and mobility during wartime. While the younger Crawley girls were quick to embrace these changes, the older generation, like the Dowager Countess Violet, clung to their Edwardian gowns. Yet, even they couldn’t resist incorporating modern textiles and the enchanting art deco patterns of the 1920s.
The Daily Ritual of Dressing at the Abbey
Downton Abbey wasn’t just about grand events and dramatic moments. It delved deep into the daily rituals of the era, including the elaborate process of dressing and undressing. The Crawley family’s strict dress code required them to change outfits multiple times a day, marking different parts of their daily routine. In stark contrast, the Crawley servants had limited wardrobe changes, emphasizing the societal hierarchy of the time. This distinction was so pronounced that actors like Joanne Froggatt, who portrayed Anna, often expressed their envy at the expansive wardrobe of characters like Lady Mary.
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The Significance of Hats in the Edwardian Era
Hats, an essential accessory in the 1910s and 1920s, were more than just fashion statements. They were symbols of etiquette and propriety. Women would don their hats when stepping out and would keep them on until they returned home. Given the importance of hats, it was only fitting for aristocratic women to put them on or remove them in their bedrooms with the assistance of a lady’s maid. This custom was cleverly used in the series, like when Mary employed it as an excuse to exit an awkward conversation in Season 5.
Conclusion: The Timeless Appeal of Downton Abbey’s Fashion
“Downton Abbey” is a masterclass in blending historical accuracy with compelling storytelling. Its portrayal of fashion, from the grandeur of the Edwardian era to the practicality of the 1920s, offers viewers a visual treat and a lesson in history. The series reminds us that fashion is not just about clothing but a reflection of the times, societal norms, and individual personalities.
