When costume designer Natasha Newman-Thomas was enlisted for Euphoria season 3, she knew she was in for a major undertaking. Levinson’s latest chapter of the dark, coming-of-age series is different from the previous ones: five years after high school, the characters are navigating the turbulent realities of adulthood, including the complexities of crime, career-building, and evolving personal identities. “Those are big shoes to fill. Heidi Bivens did such a phenomenal job in the first two seasons,” Newman-Thomas notes.
Newman-Thomas, who previously collaborated with Levinson on the 2023 project The Idol, approached this season with a focus on psychological exploration. By creating distinct narratives for each character’s five-year gap, she aimed to reflect their growth—or lack thereof—through their sartorial choices.
Evolving Narratives Through Fashion
For characters like Lexi, played by Maude Apatow, the wardrobe shift reflects a transition into a more intentional, sustainable aesthetic. Newman-Thomas envisioned Lexi attending a liberal arts college, leading her to reject fast fashion in favor of vintage pieces. This choice aligns with her aspirations in the film industry, where she seeks to emulate icons like Diane Keaton and Shelley Duvall while maintaining a practical, Hollywood-appropriate edge.
Conversely, the wardrobe for Rue, portrayed by Zendaya, emphasizes her emotional stagnation. Newman-Thomas explains that Rue’s style remains fluid, often reflecting her immediate surroundings, such as her work at a strip club. This chameleon-like approach allows Rue to blend into the various worlds she inhabits, using clothing as a necessary facade.
Iconic Details and Easter Eggs
The season also introduces new characters, including Rosalía’s role as Magick. A standout element of her look is a bedazzled neck brace, a prop that perfectly captures the show’s unique blend of burlesque and contemporary style. “We definitely wanted it to be bedazzled, and I think it’s hilarious. It’s very fitting,” says Newman-Thomas.
For fans of the series, the costume design is packed with subtle nods to the past. Newman-Thomas reveals that viewers should keep an eye out for specific Easter eggs, such as Jules wearing some of Rue’s old shirts, and Rue incorporating pieces from the late Fezco’s wardrobe. These small details serve to keep the history of the characters alive as they move forward into their new, more mature chapter.
