Method Dressing is Having Its Moment

Fashion Fri Aug 30 2024 by Martha Brooke

In 2024, it seems that the real challenge for the industry's leading actors and actresses isn’t ‘getting into character’—it’s ‘getting out of character.’ Method dressing is the latest term taking the media by storm, which sees Hollywood’s finest coordinating red carpet looks with those akin to their starring role, essentially blurring the lines between actor and character on and off-set. This approach has swiftly set the new standard for film and TV promotion, setting the internet ablaze, fuelling excitement, and turning fans into fashion disciples.

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Jenna Ortega, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice
The latest starlet to join the method dressing movement is Jenna Ortega during the press tour of Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice. In the highly-anticipated sequel, Ortega plays Astrid Deetz, the daughter of Lydia Deetz, famously played by OG scream queen, Winona Ryder. In an impressive homage to her on-screen mother and Easter eggs within the film, Ortega and long-standing stylist Enrique Melendez served up an array of clever and incredibly chic press tour looks. At the 81st Venice International Film Festival, Ortega wowed in not one but two recreations of iconic looks from the first film - a custom Dior gown with cutouts and tulle that echoed Ryder’s iconic red wedding dress, followed by a custom Paul Smith burgundy suit inspired by Beetlejuice’s maroon tux. Another applaudable outfit was a custom Thom Browne look, channelling Ryder’s final scene with a plaid skirt, sweater, and shirt. The show-stopping piece? A Handbag for the Recently Deceased—a perfect homage to an iconic prop.

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Jenna Ortega, Wednesday
It’s not the first time Ortega has taken styling cues from her leading role. In 2022, the actress wore numerous ensembles inspired by her title character, Wednesday, including the notable Dolce&Gabbana® dress worn on an appearance on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. The sheer, long black dress, accented with a dramatic collar, gave a nod to Wednesday’s most recognisable look, while the addition of platform heels and cinched silver belt steered away from costume territories but one that certainly inspired plenty.

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Zendaya, Challengers
Earlier this year, Zendaya reaffirmed her status as a style icon while promoting Challengers. With her trusted stylist and confidant, Law Roach by her side, the duo turned out a series of inspired but not cliche press looks that turned tennis practice into press tour perfection. Our favourite? Zendaya in a custom Loewe mini tennis dress, marrying classic pleats with a touch of modern sparkle. But what truly set the look apart were her custom Loewe pumps, each featuring a tennis ball pierced through the heel—a kitsch touch from the playful brand. The ensemble was flawlessly completed with dazzling Bvlgari jewels, making it a serve for the ages.

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Margot Robbie, Barbie
Of course, no mention of method dressing is complete without Margot Robbie and Barbie. Teaming up with stylist Andrew Mukamal, Robbie delved into the Mattel archives to bring some of the doll's most iconic looks to life on the red carpet. From the custom Vivienne Westwood gown inspired by the 1960s ‘Enchanted Evening’ Barbie to the Schiaparelli couture ensemble echoing the ‘Solo in the Spotlight’ doll, the duo fully committed to the bit, turning the town—and the world—pink.