“Verity” Costume Designer Reveals the Hidden Details in the Characters’ Wardrobes, Including How They’re Secretly Linked (Exclusive)

The intricacies of wardrobe design play a vital role in storytelling, especially in films. This is particularly evident in the newly released thriller “Verity,” where the costumes serve as a reflection of the characters’ development throughout the narrative. This film, which hit cinemas on 2 October and stars Anne Hathaway and Dakota Johnson, is a notably layered tale adapted from Colleen Hoover’s best-selling novel.

At the heart of “Verity” are two central characters—Verity Crawford, played by Hathaway, and Lowen Ashleigh, portrayed by Johnson. Following a tragic car accident, the once-successful author Verity finds herself unable to write, while aspiring author Lowen is invited to her home to ghostwrite her next book. Their connection grows deeper as the plot unfolds, intertwining not only their lives but also their fashion choices. Costume designer Jacqueline Demeterio recently shared insights regarding how the costumes reflect the evolving identities of both characters.

Lowen, who arrives in Vermont from New York City, is depicted as a struggling writer at the story’s commencement. Demeterio describes Lowen’s attire as “a mess,” indicative of her uncertain and financially strained beginnings. The designer opted for a wardrobe that echoes a “Brooklyn edgy” aesthetic, consisting of garments that appear thrifted and were likely inexpensive—mirroring Lowen’s precarious situation.

In stark contrast, Verity’s wardrobe is brimming with luxury and opulence, a reflection of her prior acclaim as a successful author. Her costumes prominently feature the colour red, which is utilised symbolically to embody her bold character. “Red is such a strong, bold colour,” Demeterio notes, highlighting how it encapsulates the multilayered nature of Verity’s persona and the underlying mystery surrounding her character.

A pivotal moment occurs when Jeremy, Verity’s husband, takes Lowen out to celebrate her birthday. Dramatically, Lowen admits her lack of suitable attire and chooses an elegant red dress from Verity’s wardrobe. This dress serves not only as a symbol of connection between the two women but also as a narrative device, reflecting both empowerment and tension within the plot.

Both women don red Versace dresses which evoke their shared yet distinct experiences. The challenges of sourcing the perfect attire for Hathaway’s portrayal of Verity led Demeterio and her team on an exhaustive hunt throughout New York City just before shooting began. Ultimately, they secured a fitted midi dress that accentuated Hathaway’s figure. “We felt like she was this sort of social being at that time… She needed something to fake it till you make it,” Demeterio explained, alluding to the nuances of Verity’s character.

Conversely, Johnson’s red dress was comparatively easier to procure. Demeterio encapsulated Lowen’s character as someone drawn to a “ribbed knit, sexy type dress” that remains accessible to her world, subtly revealing Lowen’s desire to insert herself into a realm of glamour that feels slightly out of reach.

As Verity’s condition shifts into a comatose state, her wardrobe takes a notable turn towards neutral tones, creating a stark visual narrative that prompts viewers to perceive her as “ghostly.” Demeterio carefully curated Verity’s subdued wardrobe of nightgowns and oversized sweaters, aiming to maintain an air of elegance even in her bedridden condition. Interestingly, despite her tragic state, Verity is still shown adorned with exquisite jewellery—chosen by her nurse Anna—that serves as a nod to her former status and a strong indicator of her character’s essence.

Jewellery plays an important role in fortifying Verity’s backstory, even when she is depicted at her most vulnerable. Demeterio and Hathaway selected luxurious estate pieces from high-end brands, ensuring that while Verity’s appearance is understated in her moments of fragility, it remains true to who she is, capturing her enduring glamour and complexity.

“Verity” continues the cinematic adaptation trend of Hoover’s works, adding to the list of novels such as “It Ends With Us” and “Regretting You,” which have also achieved film adaptations. The film’s release has not only garnered considerable attention for its thrilling plot but also for the thoughtful way in which costumes accentuate the narrative arc. As viewers immerse themselves in the film, it’s clear that every piece of clothing tells a significant tale of its own, contributing richly to the unfolding drama on screen.

With “Verity” now in theatres, audiences can appreciate both the depth of storytelling and the artistry behind its costume design, exemplifying the powerful relationship between character development and fashion in film.