BREAKING: The highly anticipated Season 2 of “Palm Royale” premiered this week, showcasing a dazzling array of costumes that elevate the storytelling and humor in this female-driven comedy. Kristen Wiig, stepping out of a vintage Rolls-Royce, sets the tone with her striking yellow fringed hat and vibrant bell bottoms.
With a backdrop of 1969 Palm Beach, the show continues to explore the dynamics of high society through the lens of fashion. This season, Emmy-winning costume designer Alix Friedberg revealed her team coordinated “thousands” of looks, blending original vintage pieces with custom creations. A staggering 50-60% of the costumes are authentic vintage designs sourced for their iconic styles.
Friedberg’s meticulous work is underscored by emotional testimonials from the cast. Kaia Gerber, who portrays Mitzi, expressed how the costumes often bring her to tears, reflecting the depth of character development. “The looks are so iconic,” Gerber noted, emphasizing the significant role fashion plays in the narrative.
In a recent interview, Friedberg explained the creative process behind the costumes, noting that if a character requires multiple outfits for various scenes, duplicates are often crafted to ensure continuity. She cited original pieces from designers like Oscar de la Renta and Halston, which help encapsulate the era’s opulence.
“Evelyn wore a lot more pants — which seems ridiculous to say today — but back then that was a real power move,” Friedberg stated, highlighting the season’s focus on female empowerment.
This season also emphasizes character evolution through costume choices. Allison Janney, who plays Evelyn, remarked on how the costumes help her embody her character effortlessly. “All of them just make me feel divine,” Janney remarked, acknowledging the artistry behind each piece.
The humor of “Palm Royale” is further enhanced by the costumes. Friedberg noted how Evelyn’s over-the-top outfits contribute to comedic moments, with characters appearing in extravagant ensembles that elicit laughs. Carol Burnett, portraying the scheming Norma, described the costume fittings as “great fun,” vital for her character’s development. Her signature turban, initially a practical choice, became a defining aspect of Norma’s identity.
As the fashion narrative unfolds, the costumes also reflect deeper societal themes. Josh Lucas, who plays Douglas, illustrates a contrasting wardrobe that mirrors his character’s struggles, with threadbare Hawaiian shirts symbolizing his decline.
Gerber’s character, Mitzi, undergoes a significant transformation, paralleling her journey of self-discovery with luxurious gowns and accessories. “It was so fun to be able to be wearing these expensive gowns and jewelry,” she stated, emphasizing how the outfits reflect her character’s newfound power.
Friedberg concluded that each costume serves a purpose beyond aesthetics, symbolizing character growth and narrative progression. “Maxine wears this dress that was an original Oscar de la Renta dress, saying to the audience that she’s arrived; it’s her time to rule,” she explained.
As “Palm Royale” Season 2 unfolds, viewers can expect not only a feast for the eyes but also a poignant commentary on women’s empowerment and evolution through fashion. With its blend of humor, heart, and iconic style, the show continues to captivate audiences, making it a must-watch this season.
