Wicked Costume Designer Reveals Inspirations Behind the Wardrobe
Paul Tazewell envisioned an extraordinary range for the Wicked costumes.
Tazewell, now 60, shared insights with Us Weekly regarding his creative process behind the costumes worn by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo during the shooting of Wicked, during the 27th Costume Designer Guild Awards on Thursday, February 6.
“The main inspiration came from the legendary 1939 award-winning film, The Wizard of Oz, ” Tazewell revealed to Us, referencing the classic in which the late Judy Garland portrayed Dorothy, alongside Jack Haley, Ray Bolger, Bert Lahr, Margaret Hamilton, and others.
“It’s a fusion of that film, the Broadway musical, and the unique traits of the characters playing these roles,” he elaborated to Us.
Tim P. Whitby/Getty Images Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo once again showcased their characters from Wicked with exquisite style. Grande, now 31, and Erivo, aged 37, donned outfits that vividly reminded fans of the costumes their Broadway versions wore during the “One Short Day” performance. The stars graced the event in mesmerizing gowns…
Tazewell further described how “nature played a significant role” in depicting the Land of Oz, emphasizing the importance to [director] John Chu of creating a fresh vision for the characters’ attire. They aimed for the “audience to re-engage with this enchanting realm.”
Tazewell ensured that Galinda’s extravagant wardrobe contrasted beautifully with Elphaba’s understated yet stunning black dresses, while the students of Shiz University exhibited sharp, tailored outfits that reflected each character’s essence.
Take Galinda (portrayed by Grande, 31), who dazzled in a whimsical pink princess gown during the film’s opening sequence. The voluminous, sparkly creation immediately evoked memories of the original Good Witch (performed by the late Billie Burke) in the 1939 classic, complete with a shimmering silver star wand.
One of Galinda’s most iconic outfits in Wicked was her Ozdust ball dress, radiating vibrant sunset hues, truly embodying a magical aura.
Elphaba (Erivo, 38) sported several stunning outfits, including a striking black dress with detailed puffy sleeves, fine embroidery, and buttons along the corset. She completed the ensemble with bold combat boots.
Pink complements green beautifully, and it’s even more stunning together. Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande embodied their Wicked roles, Elphaba and Galinda/Glinda, respectively, at the Los Angeles premiere on Saturday, November 9. Grande captivated in a custom tea-length pink gingham dress by Thom Browne…
This year, Wicked is vying for the Best Costume Design award at the 2025 Oscars, scheduled for March 2. Fans eagerly anticipate a spectacular showcasing of gowns on the Academy Awards’ red carpet.
