Table of Contents
Costume design is integral to the storytelling of films. In director Paul Thomas Anderson’s latest project, ‘One Battle After Another’, this element is especially prominent. The film stars Leonardo DiCaprio as Bob, a laid-back father on a quest for his daughter.
Costume designer Colleen Atwood employed a distinctive approach to illustrate Bob’s character through his clothing, merging comfort with narrative depth.
Atwood reveals that the iconic robe worn by DiCaprio is crafted from vintage fabric sourced by her. Initially, Bob was intended to wear a sweatshirt, but a brainstorming session inspired the shift to a robe reminiscent of Jeff Bridges’ character in ‘The Big Lebowski’.
This choice not only suited the character but also added relatability.
Bob’s wardrobe: The robe and beyond
The robe, made from a cotton-wool blend, embodies the essence of a well-worn garment suitable for lounging at home. Atwood stated, “It’s a cozy and comfortable robe, and we aged the fabric significantly to enhance its authenticity.” DiCaprio’s character spends substantial time in this robe, reflecting his relaxed demeanor and lifestyle.
Attention to detail in footwear
For Bob’s sneakers, Atwood emphasized comfort, noting DiCaprio’s involvement in selecting his footwear. After discovering a popular brand among runners, he chose Altra Lone Peak trail runners with a distinctive orange sole. “These shoes were perfect for the character,” explained Atwood, “and they lent themselves well to the overall look, especially after they got a bit dirty during filming.”
For those interested in replicating Bob’s look this Halloween, Atwood humorously recommends checking local thrift stores like Goodwill for a similar robe, highlighting the accessibility of these costume elements.
Willa’s character: A glimpse into her style
In contrast to Bob’s relaxed vibe, Willa, portrayed by Chase Infiniti, presents a youthful and vibrant style. Her dance ensemble, particularly the petticoat dress, was inspired by a previous encounter Anderson had with a young girl wearing a similar skirt.
Atwood remarked, “Before Chase was even cast, we experimented with various dresses during camera tests.”
Color choices and emotional resonance
Originally designed in a faded pink, the petticoat was altered to a blue hue after assessing the character’s emotional landscape.
Atwood recognized that this shift would communicate a sense of vulnerability and align better with the film’s overall aesthetic. “The color adjustment made a significant impact on Willa’s character portrayal,” she noted.
Sergio’s style: A blend of functionality and character
Benicio del Toro plays Sensei Sergio, who operates a karate dojo where Willa trains. The development of his wardrobe was equally meticulous. Atwood visited Del Toro’s home for a fitting, bringing a selection of outfits, including a traditional white karategi. However, she quickly reassessed this concept, realizing that a full white outfit would be impractical for a character on the run.
Collaborating with custom denim designer Jimmy McBride, Atwood opted for a more understated look that reflects Sergio’s relaxed post-work demeanor. They created a basic jean jacket, which was adorned with chainstitch embroidery to connect to the character’s background without overwhelming the visual narrative.
To complete Sergio’s outfit, Atwood sourced cowboy boots from New Mexico, expertly sized for Del Toro. “These boots strike a balance between classic Western style and a nod to ‘Rebel Without a Cause’,” she noted, encapsulating the character’s essence through thoughtful design choices.
