Costume designer Sandy Powell has brought her creative flair to Disney’s latest live-action reimagining of Snow White. The Oscar winner, renowned for her work on films such as Shakespeare in Love (1998) and Cinderella (2015), has meticulously crafted the costumes for the characters in the upcoming movie. Powell’s intricate designs pay homage to the original 1937 animated Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, while infusing them with a fresh, contemporary twist.
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In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Powell reveals her approach to reimagining the iconic costumes for the film. She explains, “I knew I couldn’t deviate too far from the iconic color palette of the original Snow White but wanted to create a new version nonetheless.” The titular princess, played by Rachel Zegler, is seen in a primary ensemble that retains elements from the classic animated version, yet introduces new elements like long sleeves for a medieval touch.
Gal Gadot, who portrays the Evil Queen in the movie, dons a costume that draws inspiration from the glamorous evening gowns of 1930s Hollywood. Powell aimed to capture a sense of glamour and sophistication in the Evil Queen’s attire, reflecting the character’s intimidating persona. The costume is designed to highlight the jewels the Evil Queen accumulates and features a crown inspired by stained-glass windows and the colors of her jewelry.
Working closely with Powell, Gadot expresses her admiration for the costume designer’s expertise and dedication to the craft. She commends Powell’s attention to detail, describing the experience as “amazing” and praising her for the extensive research and creativity she brought to the project. The collaborative effort between Powell and the cast members has resulted in costumes that not only pay homage to the original animated characters but also bring a fresh perspective to the beloved story.
Zegler, who plays Snow White in the movie, acknowledges the impact of Powell’s designs on the overall aesthetic of the film. The actress credits Powell’s talent for creating visually stunning costumes that elevate the storytelling and capture the essence of the characters. Zegler notes that Powell’s previous work on live-action adaptations like Cinderella made her the ideal choice for bringing Snow White’s costumes to life on the big screen.
Despite the challenge of reimagining a classic tale, Powell’s unique vision and creativity shine through in the costumes for Snow White. The blend of traditional elements with modern influences gives the costumes a timeless quality that resonates with audiences. Zegler praises Powell’s ability to honor the original story while adding her own touch, creating a visually captivating and immersive experience for viewers.
With the release of Snow White in theaters on March 21, audiences can look forward to experiencing a visually stunning and modern take on the beloved fairy tale. Powell’s meticulous attention to detail and innovative designs are set to transport viewers into a world where fantasy and reality seamlessly intertwine. As fans eagerly anticipate the film’s release, Powell’s costumes stand as a testament to her unparalleled talent and dedication to her craft.