The 2024 Oscars are approaching, and the film industry is abuzz with early 2024 Oscar predictions for the Best Costume Design category. As we’re three-quarters of the way through the year, several films have already made their mark at prestigious film festivals. Let’s take a look at the early contenders for the coveted Oscar nominations in the Best Costume Design category.
Top Contenders for Best Costume Design
1. Barbie – Jacqueline Durran

The leading contender for Best Costume Design is Barbie, designed by Jacqueline Durran, a two-time Oscar winner. Known for her work in Little Women and Anna Karenina, Durran has been nominated eight times. Barbie stands out with its diverse and visually striking costumes that not only enhance character development but also reflect Mattel’s influence on the fashion industry.
2. The Color Purple – Francine Jamison-Tanchuck

Returning to the Oscars scene, The Color Purple boasts the artistic talents of costume designer Francine Jamison-Tanchuck. The 1985 original was nominated but didn’t win. However, the revival promises a magical, colourful, and intricate portrayal of early 20th-century wardrobes that could clinch a nomination.
3. Killers of the Flower Moon – Jacqueline West

Jacqueline West, a four-time nominee and known for Dune, The Revenant, and The Curious Case of Benjamin Button, presents the costumes for Killers of the Flower Moon. Set in the 1920s, this historical film explores indigenous fabrics, colours, and styles, resulting in a visually stunning wardrobe that could earn her another nomination.
4. Maestro – Mark Bridges

Mark Bridges, a two-time Oscar winner for Phantom Thread and The Artist, takes on Maestro. With a focus on Leonard Bernstein, the film offers a unique opportunity to showcase the transformation of a legendary musical figure through satirical elegance. Bridges’ work could make Maestro a strong contender for a nomination.
5. Poor Things – Holly Waddington

In Poor Things, costume designer Holly Waddington combines 19th-century Victorian fashion with a steampunk aesthetic. The costumes are expected to play a vital role in depicting the emotional state of the characters, especially the protagonist, whose brain is placed in the body of an adult. This unique blend could secure Poor Things a nomination.
Dark Horse Contenders to Look for:
While the aforementioned five films are early favourites for Best Costume Design nominations at the 2024 Oscars, several others remain in the conversation:
- Wonka – Lindy Hemming
Costume designer Lindy Hemming, known for Topsy-Turvy, creates a fantastical Victorian and Edwardian look for Walker. The iconic costumes of Willy Wonka add to the visual appeal of the film, but its overall success remains uncertain.
- Asteroid City – Milena Canonero
Milena Canonero, a four-time Oscar winner, works on Asteroid City. The film is set in a mid-1950s desert town, and the costumes are expected to be quirky and vibrant, although its divisiveness among audiences and critics may affect its Oscar chances.
- Oppenheimer – Ellen Mirojnick
Costume designer Ellen Mirojnick captures the historical figure Oppenheimer well. While the costumes reflect the era accurately, the lack of uniqueness or historical relevance might hinder its Oscar prospects.
- Napoleon – Janty Yates
Jante Yates, known for Gladiator, dresses the characters of Napoleon. The film promises a neoclassical fashion with extravagant gold-embellished costumes, but its overall reception will determine its Oscar chances.
- Saltburn – Sophie Canale
Sophie Canale’s work on Saltburn is expected to visually support the film’s satire of wealth, privilege, and class differences. With the potential to highlight powerful themes through costumes, Saltburn might be a surprise nominee.
The Best Costume Design category at the 2024 Oscars is filled with talent and creativity. While five films are early favourites for nominations, the final lineup is yet to be determined as the awards season progresses. Stay tuned as we track their journey through film festivals, precursor awards, and the ultimate race towards the 2024 Oscars. The competition for Best Costume Design promises to be fierce, and only time will reveal which film will emerge as the winner.
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We have full-time jobs and other responsibilities but work tirelessly to provide the best possible content for you all to enjoy. Anything is really appreciated. 😁
We have full-time jobs and other responsibilities but work tirelessly to provide the best possible content for you all to enjoy. Anything is really appreciated. 😁
DonateDonate monthlyDonate yearlyAs we lead up to awards season, we will be regularly analyzing and predicting everything that comes our way. Be sure to head over to our Oscars page for all the latest news on our 2024 Oscar predictions (updated monthly), hot topics and analysis.
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