Sense and Sensibility

Position: Costume Designer

The Dudley Experimental Theatre at UMD

Fall 2023

Sense and Sensibility portrays the vibrant Regency era of the early 1800s with historically-inspired costumes tailored to suit the characters and the created world. The show features swift transitions, achieved through the clever use of costume pieces such as stocks, vests, and coats to transform characters. The Gossips in the story are exaggerated caricatures of society, and their bold, eye-catching costumes, including bright Spencer jackets and vibrant pattern/color combinations, contribute to this exaggeration.

At the heart of the narrative are Elinor and Marianne Dashwood, with their costumes revolving around their personalities. Elinor, the sensible and refined eldest sister, dons a delicate blue outfit, featuring geometric and floral patterns. Marianne, the more outgoing of the two, wears a soft cream and pink dress adorned with delicate ruffles, reflecting her vivacious nature. Even their suitors are color-coordinated, with Edward in a blue coat, Colonel Brandon in a pink vest, and Willoughby in a maroon coat.

In contrast, the Steele sisters serve as a striking juxtaposition to the Dashwood sisters, sporting garish accessories and ever-brightening colors that accentuate the differences in their characters. The color palette gets brighter and bolder the further the connection to the family. 

Furthermore, the show captures the specific mourning practices of the Regency Era. Widows, including Mrs. Dashwood, Mrs. Jennings, and Mrs. Ferrars, wear more subdued, muted tones in their costumes, signifying both the mourning period and their social status.

Awards

2024 KCACTF Region 5 Festival 56 Costume Parade Participant

2024 KCACTF Region 5 Festival 56 Achievement in Costume Design

2024 KCACTF Region 5 Festival 56 Sharon Sobel Costume Design Award