The Oscar-winning costume designer behind the hotly anticipated new adaptation of Wuthering Heights has publicly responded to a wave of online criticism directed at the film's modernised wardrobe.
Social Media Scrutiny Over Modernised Costumes
Following the release of the full trailer in November, social media users have been vocal in their disapproval of the stylised costumes seen on Margot Robbie, who stars as Cathy. The film, set for release on 13 February and featuring a soundtrack by Charli XCX, has faced accusations of prioritising style over historical authenticity.
Critics on platform X described the designs as "hideous" and "cheap fantasy costume," with one user stating the outfits looked "worse than Bridgerton's costume design." Another commented that the choices appeared "random" and more akin to a "costume party with a twist."
Designer's Defensive Stance on Creative Choices
In a new interview with Vogue, the film's costume designer, two-time Oscar winner Jacqueline Durran, has robustly defended her creative vision. Durran explained that the use of shiny, modern fabrics was a deliberate character choice for Cathy, intended to "take you out of the period."
"It was exciting to mix the shape of a Victorian dress with a fabric that was completely modern," she stated. Durran openly admitted the production did not aim for historical accuracy, noting "the dates are all confused." The guiding principle, she revealed, was simply selecting "clothes we like for each character."
Robbie's Personal Challenges and On-Screen Chemistry
The controversy arrives alongside revelations from Margot Robbie about the personal challenges of filming. The 35-year-old actress admitted she was fearful about shooting the movie when she was just three months postpartum after welcoming her son in October 2024, crediting director Emerald Fennell with helping to relieve her anxiety.
Robbie also addressed expectations for steamy scenes, following Fennell's previous work on Saltburn. "Everyone's expecting this to be very, very raunchy. I think people will be surprised," she said, describing the film as a "big epic romance" more akin to The Notebook. She confessed that some tender moments with her co-star, Jacob Elordi (28), who plays Heathcliff, left her feeling "weak at the knees."
Elordi, in turn, praised Robbie's formidable work ethic, joking to Vogue that she must possess "Hermione's time-turner" to balance new motherhood, acting, and producing.
Despite the costume debate and other pre-release controversies—including the casting of a light-skinned Heathcliff—early test screenings in Dallas, Texas, reportedly noted the "great chemistry" between the two leads and their "committed performances." The film is said to retain Fennell's signature provocative style, aiming to elicit a strong physical response from its audience.
