: Her wardrobe emphasized her family's wealth, featuring heavy embroidery and luxurious textures. Sourcing and Production
If you were a fan of The CW’s historical drama Reign (2013–2017), you know that pinpoint historical accuracy was never the show's strong suit. The timeline was condensed, the ghosts were real, and the bodices were tight. But to criticize Reign for a lack of accuracy is to miss the point entirely. reign tv series costume designer
From the series' inception, the show's creators— and Stephanie SenGupta —envisioned Reign as a teen drama rather than a strictly accurate historical piece. Markworth-Pollack was tasked with creating a wardrobe that was aspirational and relatable, leading her to shop at modern retailers like Net-a-Porter and Anthropologie for items that could be modified into period-inspired looks. : Her wardrobe emphasized her family's wealth, featuring
Megan Oppenlander and her team created a look that has since influenced other fantasy period dramas. They proved that costumes don't have to be enslaved to history to be beautiful. They created dresses that inspired thousands of Halloween costumes, prom dresses, and fan art. But to criticize Reign for a lack of
For every stunning custom gown, there is a polyester disaster. On a high-definition screen, some of the cheaper fabrics (shiny satin, visible synthetic lace) betray the show’s modest budget. A few of Mary’s simpler court dresses look suspiciously like altered prom dresses from 2009, complete with zippers peeking out.
The show’s signature move is the juxtaposition of traditional elements (velvet, brocade, corsetry, lace) with shockingly modern materials and cuts. You will see Mary, Queen of Scots in a structured, beaded bodice over a sheer panel and skinny leather pants. You will see Queen Catherine de’ Medici in a formidable metal-and-leather shoulder piece that looks like it walked off a goth nightclub stage.