Costume Couture: Wolverine (and The Wolverine)
Our Superstylist-in-Residence Caitlin Burke is back once again and this week examining everyone’s favorite clawed mutant, Wolverine, just in time for his appearance in “The Wolverine.” In the interest of equal time, Burke examines both the movie look and the costume from the comics.
Caitlin is a New York-based fashion editor and stylist. Check her out at caitlinburkenyc.com or on Twitter, @caitlinburkenyc
Hugh Jackman gets jacked in “The Wolverine.”
I’ve already mentioned my penchant for practical over theatrical when it comes to superhero dress, and judging by the bare bones (err… chested) Hugh Jackman version of The Wolverine, I’m guessing the film’s costume designer felt the same. I appreciate that his wardrobe’s been stripped of all the superfluous adornments and lighting bolts plaguing the comic rendition, but I am confused as to why the most offensive part of the whole look — a hairstyle that could put Donald Trump and Ed Grimley to shame — has somehow made the cut (or lack thereof).
And speaking of hair, the Wolverine seems to be an anomaly in the comic world compared to his clean-cut contemporaries, who have all been waxed and man-scaped within an inch of their lives. Even macho man Thor bears a glistening, pre-pubescent chest in his latest film. But not Wolverine. Despite, quite literally, having razor blades at his fingertips, he still can’t be bothered to prune his pecs, and that’s what I like about him.
I can understand why longtime Wolverine fans may feel that too much of the original costumery was lost in the movie’s portrayal, but as a Penn State alum, I personally despise the blue and gold color palette, especially when associated with a wolverine. Not to mention, he basically looks like a Teletubbie on steroids in this head-to-toe yellow jumpsuit. Uma Thurman in Kill Bill aside, this is never a good look on anyone.
I have mixed feelings when it comes to his accessories, as well. Unless he plans on attending the opera or handling a falcon, those elbow-length gloves have got to go. His eyewear is interesting though, I like the unique shape and sharp lines — very reminiscent of something [socialite] Peggy Guggenheim might have worn. The skull cap they’re attached to, on the other hand, is questionable at best, but I guess anything to cover up the dreadful ‘do is a step in the right direction.
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