1. Bridgerton Featured Unhistorical Fabrics and Silhouettes
While Bridgerton gained immense popularity for its visually stunning wardrobe, the series took significant creative liberties with historical accuracy. The story is set in the Regency Era (early 1800s), known for high-waisted empire gowns and muted colors. However, the show features vibrant colors, sparkly fabrics, and modern necklines that wouldn’t have existed during that period.
Additionally, some of the female characters are seen wearing corsets that give them a modern silhouette rather than the authentic Regency silhouette, which was softer and less restrictive. These costume choices, while visually appealing, reflect contemporary tastes rather than historical realities.
2. Pride and Prejudice Showed Incorrect Hair Accessories
In adaptations of Pride and Prejudice, the costumes and accessories are usually close to period-specific fashion. However, some details are inconsistent with the late Georgian Era (early 1800s). For instance, the film versions sometimes feature hairpins, tiaras, and hairstyles that align more with Victorian trends of the mid-19th century rather than the simpler styles of the time Jane Austen’s story takes place.
Additionally, modernized fabrics such as polyester sneak their way into costumes, which would have been crafted using natural fibers like cotton or wool in the original period.
3. Seabiscuit Used Zippers on Clothing Before They Were Invented
Seabiscuit is set during the 1930s, but costume designers overlooked some key details. Zippers, now common in clothing, were not widely used until the 1940s. Yet, several characters in the movie are seen wearing outfits that feature modern zippers.
The oversight detracts from the authenticity of the time period, especially in a film that otherwise tries to faithfully depict Depression-era America. Such anachronistic details can pull sharp-eyed viewers out of the story.
4. Little Women Showcased 21st-Century Hairstyles
While Little Women is a cherished classic, various versions of the story have taken liberties with costume accuracy. The 2019 adaptation, for instance, portrays characters with loose waves and hairstyles that resonate more with modern trends than the strict updos of the 1860s.
The relaxed, beachy waves worn by Jo March, played by Saoirse Ronan, would have been highly inappropriate in the mid-19th century, where hair was styled tightly and covered with bonnets in public settings. These modern hairstyles stand out as glaring inaccuracies amidst the otherwise beautiful costumes.
5. The Tudors Ignored Modesty Rules of the Era
The Tudors is a show celebrated for its drama and storytelling, but its costumes deviated significantly from the actual Tudor fashion of the 16th century. The historical period was marked by modesty, with women typically covering their shoulders, arms, and necklines.
In the series, female characters are often seen in dresses with plunging necklines, sleeveless designs, and modernized fits, which are not historically accurate. While these outfits added to the dramatic appeal, they strayed far from the fashion norms of Tudor England.
6. Django Unchained Introduced Sunglasses Before Their Time
In Quentin Tarantino’s Django Unchained, the protagonist Django wears stylish sunglasses that help define his iconic look. However, this accessory is an anachronism. The story is set in 1858, and sunglasses were not widely available or used as a fashion statement during this time.
While spectacles existed, sunglasses as shown in the movie didn’t become common until the 20th century. Although Django’s sunglasses are undoubtedly cool, they are more fitting for a modern Western aesthetic than the mid-19th century.
7. Troy Misrepresented Armor and Hairstyles
The epic film Troy, based on Homer’s Iliad, captures the grandeur of ancient Greece but misses the mark on costume accuracy. The armor worn by Achilles, played by Brad Pitt, features intricate metalwork that would not have been available in Bronze Age Greece.
Additionally, the characters’ hairstyles often appear modernized. For instance, many male characters are shown with clean-shaven faces, a trend that became popular in later periods. In reality, warriors of this era would likely have sported long hair and beards.
8. Singin’ in the Rain Showed Modern Hemlines
While Singin’ in the Rain is a celebration of the 1920s, the costumes occasionally betray the time period. Some dresses worn by female characters feature higher hemlines and more modern tailoring than what would have been common during the Roaring Twenties.
The decade was known for drop-waist silhouettes and longer, flowing skirts. The movie’s reliance on 1950s trends, the decade in which it was filmed, occasionally bleeds into the costumes, making certain outfits feel out of place for a 1920s setting.
Final Words
Costumes play a vital role in historical films and series, as they help create a believable world for the audience. While some inaccuracies may be intentional, designed to enhance storytelling or visual appeal, they can detract from the authenticity of the setting. The examples above remind us of the challenges costume designers face in balancing historical accuracy with creative freedom. Despite their mistakes, these films and series remain beloved for their storytelling, performances, and visual splendor.
