Clemons explores the meaning of costume choice presented through style, whether or not trends are followed, and color scheme. She mentions how in the very first episode of Buffy, fashion is presented as very important to the show. Not only is Buffy proven to be fashion conscious in "Welcome to the Hellmouth" as Cordelia quizzes her on the latest trends, but she also spots a Vampire because his out-of-date clothing suggests he's been dead for many years. Clemons also describes how character arcs throughout the series are further defined by the clothing choice of those characters. For example, Willow abandons her geeky and colorful garb for something much darker as she is drawn further and further into her magical powers, and as Buffy matures she begins to dress more and more like a motherly figure (at least a very stylish motherly figure).
"Tabula Rasa" is mentioned a few times in the article, and I think it is an excellent example of how clothing choice accentuates character traits. As previously mentioned, Buffy dawns a dark coat which I think reflects her eventual fall to Spike and spiral into darkness. She begins the episode in all white or light tones, suggesting she is trying to compensate for kissing Spike at the end of "Once More, With Feeling". Willow is also dressed in all dark tones, and also looks very fashionable and quite witchy, with the tattered shirt and tight jeans. This again emphasizes her movement into Dark Willow. Furthermore in this episode, we see how clothing choice can be deceptive. Spike sees the name in his stolen suit and thinks his name is Randy, and Willow notes the name Harris on her jacket and comes to the conclusion that she and Xander must be dating.
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ReplyDeleteInteresting post. Willow's outfit in "Tabula Rasa" had always been one of my favorites. Mainly because it's fairly badass and sexy compared to WIllow's normal combination of fuzzy sweater and skirt. I think you're right that this outfit physically marks her descent into the dark side of things. I also noticed the contrast between Buffy's white clothes and Spike's black ones at the beginning of the episode, and I like the parallel you draw between Buffy's leather coat and her relationship with Spike.
ReplyDeleteI think your post is very relevant to the Buffy series as a whole. I agree that as they grow older, more mature, and find their true selves, the characters dress more to stereotypes, perhaps. Buffy’s leather pants in the “Buffy vs. Dracula” episode and her long leather coat in this episode depict, what I picture as, an ideal Slayer, someone that kicks ass and looks really cool and confident doing it. Furthermore, I think in Northanger Abbey, clothing plays a significant role in everyday society. For example, people’s obsession with dressing well and the latest fashion trends, especially Mrs. Allen’s, really paints a picture of their true nature and how they view manners and etiquette during that time.
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