Anne Hathaway: A Fashion Evolution in ‘Mother Mary’ and Beyond
In David Lowery’s Mother Mary, Anne Hathaway delivers a captivating performance as a pop star poised for a comeback. As she prepares for her highly-anticipated return to the spotlight, the singer seeks the help of her estranged friend Sam (played by Michaela Coel), a now-renowned fashion designer, to create a show-stopping dress. But Mother Mary is about more than just a stage look; it’s a journey towards reconciliation and self-discovery.
“The film explores the complexities of creative relationships,” explains Iris van Herpen, the Dutch designer who crafted the film’s breathtaking finale gown. “The dress becomes a visual representation of that dynamic—how one artist influences another, and how identity can be both lost and reclaimed through collaboration.”
Crafting a Visual Narrative
Director David Lowery (Peter Pan & Wendy, The Green Knight) collaborated with costume designer Bina Daigeler, known for her work on Tár and 2020’s Mulan, to bring the film’s fashion to life. This wasn’t simply about adorning Hathaway in sequins and bodysuits; it was about building a visual narrative that reflected her character’s emotional arc.
When we first encounter Mother Mary, her star has dimmed, and Daigeler skillfully used fashion to convey the weight of lost fame. “My goal was to translate emotions into costumes,” she shares. Flashback scenes reveal Mother Mary in her prime—draped in flowing capes, adorned with crystal-encrusted bodysuits, and crowned with halo-shaped headpieces, a subtle nod to the religious iconography.
Daigeler drew inspiration from iconic performers like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, and Dua Lipa, while also looking back to the era of Madonna in the 1980s. Vogue details the extensive research and creative process behind these looks.
Originality and Transcendence
Hathaway lends her voice to original pop tracks on the soundtrack, composed by Charli XCX and Jack Antonoff. The costume team mirrored this commitment to originality, striving to create a unique visual identity for Mother Mary. Daigeler designed numerous halo headpieces, each a distinct statement piece. “We wanted to establish our own signature style,” she explains. “We looked to designers like Alexander McQueen and John Galliano, but ultimately created something entirely new.”
The film’s most impactful costume arrives at the climax. The red, draped-organza gown created by Iris van Herpen isn’t just a fashion choice; it’s a symbol of transformation. “The dress embodies transcendence and the potential for evolution,” says van Herpen. “Mother Mary is grappling with fame and identity, and the dress represents her journey towards self-discovery. Putting it on is a spiritual elevation.”
Van Herpen was Lowery’s first choice, and the design process spanned months. “The dress isn’t a physical garment as much as a vessel or spirit,” she explains. The choice of red was deliberate, representing both spirituality and the life force within.
Daigeler was thrilled with the final result. “It’s a stunning piece that allows the inner self to shine through. It truly shows Mother Mary from the inside out.”
A Collaborative Vision
Daigeler also enjoyed collaborating with Michaela Coel. “Michaela and I spent a lot of time together, exploring fabrics, stones, and embroideries. It was a fun and glamorous process.” Mother Mary promises to be a visual feast for fashion enthusiasts, showcasing a stunning array of costumes and a compelling story of artistic collaboration and personal growth.
