‘The Vampire Lestat’ Costume Designer Breaks Down Lestat’s Rockstar Wardrobe and the Season’s Hidden Easter Eggs

The costume designer for "The Vampire Lestat", Lex Wood, has revealed the inspiration behind the character's rockstar wardrobe in the show's third season. With the shift in narrator to Lestat de Lioncourt, played by Sam Reid, Wood saw an opportunity to expand the show's aesthetics and move away from the traditional red and black colors associated with vampires. Instead, she drew inspiration from musicians such as Iggy Pop, David Bowie, and Freddie Mercury to create a unique and individual look for Lestat.

Wood's design process was heavily influenced by the music industry, with a focus on creating a look that reflected Lestat's persona as a musician. She spent a lot of time researching and listening to music that fit the show's vibe, and worked closely with the composer Daniel Hart to ensure that the costumes aligned with the music. The result is a wardrobe that is both bold and eclectic, with a mix of archival pieces and handcrafted items. Wood notes that about 75% of the show's costumes were handcrafted, and she was deliberate in her fabric choices, often incorporating silk to give a sense of continuity with the characters' past.

The costumes for other characters, such as Louis de Pointe du Lac and Regina, were also carefully considered. Louis' wardrobe reflects his transition from being restrained by Armand to being more free and expressive, with a greater use of color and pattern. Regina's costumes, on the other hand, are more subdued, with a focus on creating a sense of normalcy and blending in. However, as she begins to impersonate Claudia, her wardrobe takes on a more deliberate and symbolic meaning, with nods to the original character's style.

Wood's attention to detail extends to the jewelry worn by the characters, with each piece carefully chosen to reflect their personality and backstory. Lestat's jewelry, in particular, is used to toy with people and convey his emotions, with different colored stones and symbols holding specific meanings. In contrast, Louis' jewelry is more consistent, with a focus on silver and a particular bracelet that holds significance for his character.

The costumes in "The Vampire Lestat" are not just functional, but also serve as a way to convey the characters' emotions and backstory. Wood's use of color, fabric, and jewelry creates a rich and layered visual landscape that adds depth and complexity to the show. As the season progresses, fans can expect to see more hidden Easter eggs and symbolic meanings woven into the costumes, adding an extra layer of meaning to the story.

The overall effect of Wood's costume design is to create a sense of immersion and authenticity, drawing the viewer into the world of the show. With its bold and eclectic style, the wardrobe of "The Vampire Lestat" is a key element in bringing the characters to life and creating a unique and captivating visual experience.