Like any great costume department, the Hallmark movies’s fashion teams will view what characters wear as more than just an aesthetic choice: Their clothes must evoke a feeling, that being one of holiday joy and optimism. “People are often surprised by how much storytelling goes into every wardrobe choice,” says Detienne. “Nothing is random—each look is carefully considered in relation to character development, lighting, set design, and the emotional beats of a scene.” Costume designer Kathy Strachan, who worked on Twelve Dates ’Til Christmas, echoes the sentiment. “The costumes for a Christmas movie have a duty to be fun! It is a time for celebration and counting one’s blessings.”
Of course, there are specific colors, silhouettes, and pieces they all use to achieve this jubilant mood. Shades of red, green, and white are—obviously—pivotal. “Christmas is red, green, and white,” says Strachan. “Add to this sparkle and twinkle, some gold and silver, and you have the classic Hallmark Christmas palette.”
In She’s Making a List, Detienne outfitted Chabert in deep reds and sumptuous greens, designing outfits in rich wool or velvet textures. “I wanted the wardrobe to showcase a balance between polished structure and playful holiday charm, before easing into the cozy, small-town Connecticut vibe.” says Detienne. Chabert—who has starred in over 40 Hallmark films—says cultivating an upbeat look for her characters is always a fun part of the job. “The overall look is always festive, relatable, and cozy,” she says. “In She’s Making A List, the costumes Jaralin found for my character’s disguises as an inspector for the Naughty or Nice group were particularly fun. I love when we have the chance to branch out and mix it up as well.”
The Hallmark looks also often have a relatability to them: The characters are never too trendy or avant-garde, rather, they are designed to be more accessible and appeal to the masses. (That is, unless, they go for the opposite: dressing to really feel the whimsical, festive fantasy: See the theatrical Christmas tree hats below.) Comforting textures and layers are often used to achieve this (think: plaid scarves over wool coats over cozy cableknit sweaters). “Texture is just as important as color,” says Detienne. “Sequins, tweeds, velvets, flannels, and chunky knits all help sell that sense of seasonal warmth on screen.”
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