Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande have sparked a cultural movement, reshaping how we dress, express ourselves, and think about social values
For those inclined to track down Wicked, look no further than the summit of the box office rankings. Universal’s film adaptation of the first act of the Tony Award-winning Broadway sensation debuted at the pinnacle of North American ticket sales, amassing $114 million across 3,888 screens during its opening weekend. Directed by Jon M. Chu, Wicked garnered an additional $50.2 million internationally, bringing its worldwide haul to an impressive $164.2 million. This achievement makes it the most successful global opening for a film based on a Broadway musical, surpassing the previous record held by Les Misérables in 2012.
Visualizza questo post su Instagram
Starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, Wicked unfolds as a compelling narrative of friendship, identity, and power that transcends entertainment, leaving a lasting impression on both fashion and society.
You likely already guessed it: Emerald City is not only captivating audiences on the big screen, but it is also transforming fashion, beauty and culture with a touch of magic.
Released on 22 November, this highly anticipated film has redefined how beloved stage productions are adapted for the big screen. With Cynthia Erivo as the bold and misunderstood Elphaba and Ariana Grande playing the radiant Glinda, Wicked is a masterful blend of music, emotion, and visual splendour.
Who Designed the Costumes for Wicked?
In Wicked, the costumes are as mesmerising as the story itself. Designed by Paul Tazewell, renowned for his work on the musical Hamilton, the wardrobe sparkles with fantasy and detail.
Glinda’s bubble gown, worn by Ariana Grande, reinterprets Billie Burke’s iconic look from The Wizard of Oz in shimmering pink. The design combines timeless charm with contemporary sophistication, featuring 137 intricate pattern pieces and over 20,000 meticulously hand-stitched beads.
@instyle Galinda’s bubble dress doesn’t just defy gravity…it also follows the fibonacci sequence. 🫧🪄 See all the hidden easter eggs in the @Wicked Movie costumes revealed by #paultazewell in this episode of InStyle’s ‘Behind The Seams: #Wicked’ at the link in bio. #arianagrande ♬ original sound - InStyle Magazine
In stark contrast, Cynthia Erivo’s wardrobe for Elphaba reflects her deep connection to nature, incorporating earthy textures, mushroom-inspired patterns, and Fibonacci spirals. These designs add depth to her persona, blending intellectual sophistication with a rebellious streak.
Everything You Need to Know About the Movie’s Fashion Reviews
Seamlessly blending fantasy with contemporary fashion, Wicked has received acclaim from fashion authorities. Vogue praised the costumes as “a bridge between fantasy and modernity,” capturing the film’s flawless fusion of storytelling and design.
Meanwhile, InStyle remarked that costume designer Paul Tazewell “spared no detail in bringing Elphaba and Glinda to life through their clothing.”
Did The Wizard of Oz Truly Inspire Wicked?
The historical connection further enhances the film’s impact. Wicked builds on the legacy of The Wizard of Oz, a story that has long reflected social change.
@wickedmovie We have an announcement to make: Wicked is the #1 ♬ original sound - Wicked Movie
The 1939 film, directed by Victor Fleming and starring Judy Garland, offered escapism during the Great Depression. In contrast, Wicked resonates in a modern era that focuses on inclusion, empowerment, and the celebration of individuality.
This evolution demonstrates Oz’s timeless ability to mirror the cultural values of its time.
How Wicked Has Proven Popular in Fashion
Move over, Barbiecore—Wickedcore is officially the trend of the season. While 2023 revelled in bubblegum pink, winter 2024 is shining with emerald enchantment and a touch of witchy sophistication. From beauty counters to closets, the Wicked aesthetic has become a cultural phenomenon.
View this post on Instagram
Beauty brands have fully embraced the magic of Oz, achieving record-breaking success. Ariana Grande’s R.E.M. Beauty launched makeup duo packs inspired by the sparkle of Glinda and the drama of Elphaba, generating over £16 million in revenue during the first week. IT Cosmetics saw a 23% increase in sales for its “Witchy Glow” highlighters, while OPI’s Emerald City glow-in-the-dark nail polishes sold out worldwide.
Fashion brands quickly followed suit. Crocs introduced glittering, witch-approved clogs, contributing £7.2 million in sales in a single month, while Aldo debuted enchanted heels that helped drive a 14% increase in quarterly revenue. Retailers like H&M and Bloomingdale’s incorporated Oz-inspired designs into their collections, solidifying Wickedcore as both a retail triumph and a cultural movement.
What Went On with Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo’s Press Tour Fashion?
The 9 November premiere in Los Angeles epitomised the Wickedcore aesthetic.
Ariana Grande’s custom Thom Browne gown, sparkling in pink, captured Glinda’s glamour and elegance.
View this post on Instagram
Cynthia Erivo impressed in a custom Louis Vuitton ensemble, embodying Elphaba’s resilience and complexity.
Visualizza questo post su Instagram
Kristin Chenoweth and Idina Menzel, Broadway’s original Glinda and Elphaba, reunited in radiant ensembles, celebrating Wicked’s enduring legacy.
A Militant Spell on Society: Unpacking the Message of Wicked
Beyond its glitz and glamour, Wicked presents a powerful narrative about identity, acceptance, and self-discovery. The story explores the blurred lines between good and evil, imparting deeply resonant lessons that align with today’s social movements.
Elphaba’s journey reflects the challenges of being misunderstood in a society that often marginalises those on the outside. Her story highlights themes of individuality, self-acceptance, and mental health awareness, encouraging audiences to celebrate their uniqueness. “Elphaba is unapologetically herself, and that’s her superpower,” says actress Cynthia Erivo.
View this post on Instagram
Glinda’s evolution challenges privilege and underscores the transformative power of empathy. Ariana Grande observes: “Glinda’s journey shows that being loved for who you truly are is far more meaningful than seeking adoration.”
Wicked has sparked a movement that extends beyond the screen. Fans are sharing their “Elphaba moments” on social media, celebrating the times they felt misunderstood but chose to embrace their individuality.
Director Jon M. Chu is aware of this. “Wicked is a beautiful mirror reflection of ourselves,” he says. “It’s about the messy, complicated parts of being human and finding the beauty in that.”
Is There Going to Be a New Wicked Movie?
As the credits roll and Wicked’s spell lingers, this is just the beginning.
A sequel is already scheduled for November 2025, promising even more magic, fashion, and cultural impact.
Laetitia El Hajj
MA in Fashion Promotion, Communication & Digital Media, Paris