The Perfect Couple, Industry, and the Subtle Art of Class Dressing
In the world of television dramas like The Perfect Couple and Industry, fashion is not just a backdrop—it’s an integral part of storytelling that speaks volumes about character identity and social standing. From Dakota Fanning’s Abby Winbury’s sartorial judgments to Nicole Kidman’s Greer’s haute couture choices, clothing is wielded as both shield and sword in the battle for class distinction.
The Sartorial Commentary of The Perfect Couple
Set against the backdrop of an opulent Nantucket island mansion, The Perfect Couple showcases the nuanced dance of class dressing. The show cleverly uses fashion to differentiate characters like Merritt Monaco, whose Missoni dress is deemed too casual for the elite Winbury family.
Dressing for Old Money: A Visual Language
The old-money WASP aesthetic within the show is epitomized by subtle cues of reserve. Characters who belong in this exclusive circle adhere to an unspoken dress code:
- Reserve and discretion are key; shoulders and midriffs are kept covered.
- Casual attire like denim and flip-flops is frowned upon.
Aesthetic as a Signal: The Contrast Between Greer and Tag Winbury
Nicole Kidman’s character, Greer Winbury, dons an elegant but stiff wardrobe of silks and neutral tones. Her appearance clashes with her husband Tag’s more relaxed style—linen button-downs and bathrobes speak to a deep-rooted connection with his family home. This contrast in attire becomes emblematic of their differing backgrounds and personal narratives.
Class Dressing in the Boardroom: Industry
The high-stakes world of finance depicted in Industry also relies heavily on fashion to communicate socioeconomic status. The show uses clothing as a visual shorthand for characters’ origins and aspirations.
Signifiers of Social Standing in Fashion
Clothing choices within the series serve as direct indicators of character backgrounds:
- Robert Spearing’s working-class roots are revealed through his nervous concern over maintaining a crisp suit.
- In contrast, Yasmin Kara-Hanani’s Burberry trench coat is a signifier of her affluent background and financial security.
The Ascension of Harper: Fashion as Progression
As Harper evolves from an uncertain newcomer to a confident player in the investment banking world, her wardrobe reflects this transformation. The transition from nondescript attire to high-end labels like Prada symbolizes her growing acumen and status.
The Art of Dressing for Your Class: Practical Insights
While the subtleties of class dressing are often showcased in fictional narratives, they can also apply to real-life scenarios. Here are some practical takeaways:
Understanding Context is Key
Fashion choices should be appropriate for both setting and occasion. Just as characters in these shows adjust their wardrobe based on social context, individuals should consider the environment when selecting attire.
Mastery of Subtlety: The Unspoken Rules
- Accessories and details can speak volumes; a simple scarf or watch might denote an attention to style that aligns with more refined tastes.
- Quality over quantity often defines elegance—opt for well-tailored pieces rather than excessive layers of fast fashion.
The Language of Fabrics and Colors: Expressing Identity
Fabrics and color palettes can subtly communicate one’s place in the social hierarchy. Light silks and creams may convey luxury, while heavier fabrics like wool might suggest a more grounded sensibility.
Conclusion: The Unending Dialogue Between Fashion and Class
In both The Perfect Couple and Industry, fashion is an eloquent language that reveals much about a character’s place in the world. As viewers, we’re invited to decode these cues, understanding that sometimes what you wear can say more than words ever could.
Whether it’s Merritt Monaco’s controversial Missoni dress or Harper’s evolving sartorial choices, clothing remains an enduring and telling component of storytelling—and perhaps life itself. It is a reminder that in the subtle art of class dressing, every stitch matters.