When the credits roll on Jane Campion’s sweeping epic, ‘The Power of the Dog (2021)’, you are left with an indelible impression of the vast, rugged landscapes of the Wild West. But alongside its breathtaking cinematography and intense narrative, the film’s meticulous attention to period detail and character-driven wardrobe choices stand out. As a self-proclaimed fashion aficionado with an insatiable appetite for cinema, I found myself utterly captivated by the sartorial choices that so deftly contributed to the storytelling.
The essence of the film’s visual storytelling lies not only in the stunning vistas of the Montana plains (beautifully captured in New Zealand) but also in the costumes that clothe its complex characters. It’s no surprise that the film has garnered critical acclaim, with recognition for its costuming being an essential part of the conversation. The garments worn by the characters are not mere accessories but are woven into the narrative, serving as extensions of their personas, signifiers of their evolution, and metaphors for the themes explored.
Throughout this article, I aim to delve deep into the character analysis and style breakdown, providing insight into how these elements come together to create a cohesive aesthetic that’s as alluring as it is authentic. So, saddle up and join me on this stylish journey through the sun-baked drama of ‘The Power of the Dog.’
Style breakdown: ‘The Power of the Dog (2021)’ aesthetic
The film’s aesthetic is a masterclass in period authenticity, with each costume piece contributing to the tapestry of the narrative. The clothing is not merely ornamental; it’s a critical component of the setting, helping to transport the audience to the era and the emotional landscape of the characters.
The Power of the Dog’s costumes were crafted with a meticulous eye for detail, drawing on historical references to ensure accuracy. The wardrobe’s palette echoes the natural hues of the environment, with earthy tones of brown, beige, and green dominating. This choice not only grounds the characters in their setting but also reflects their individual personalities and the shifting dynamics between them.
Benedict Cumberbatch as Phil Burbank
To encapsulate the essence of Phil Burbank’s style, one must prioritize authenticity and a touch of ruggedness. His look is not about pristine pieces but about clothing that tells a story of hard work, open skies, and a deep connection to the land.
- The Hat: A quintessential element of any cowboy, Phil’s hat is wide-brimmed and weather-beaten, shielding him from the relentless sun and serving as his silent ally.
- The Jacket: A staple in Phil’s wardrobe is his durable leather jacket. It’s functional, providing warmth and protection, yet it also carries the scars of his laborious life.
- The Shirt: Underneath, he dons a simple, often dirt-stained button-up shirt, its fabric sturdy enough to withstand the demands of cattle herding.
- The Denim: Phil’s jeans are as much a part of him as his stoic demeanor. They’re well-worn, faded in places from the sun, and fit to allow ease of movement on horseback.
- The Boots: Lastly, his boots are sturdy and broken in, with every scuff marking a day spent in the unforgiving terrain of the ranch.
To dress like Phil, one must seek items that aren’t just visually reminiscent of his style but also share the same spirit of endurance and unrefined charm.
Phil Burbank – A Man Out of Time
Phil Burbank, brilliantly portrayed by Benedict Cumberbatch, is an enigma wrapped in leather and denim. His character is a throwback to a bygone era, a man who feels more at home on the open range than in the company of his fellow man. Cumberbatch’s Phil is rough around the edges, a brooding presence who speaks in the language of the land: the whistle of the wind, the crackle of the fire, and the creak of his boots.
Each element of Phil’s character is meticulously crafted, from his gruff exterior to his complex interior. He is a man of contradictions, embodying both the rugged individualism of the cowboy archetype and the unspoken vulnerabilities that lie beneath. As the narrative unfolds, we discover that Phil’s outward harshness is a faí§ade, masking a deeply intelligent, if troubled, soul.
Phil Burbank’s Style – Raw and Unrefined
Phil’s wardrobe is as rugged and unpolished as the man himself. His attire is practical, suited for the demands of ranch life, yet there’s a deliberate roughness to it that speaks to his disdain for societal expectations. The clothing is worn and weathered, much like Phil’s view of the world around him.
Jesse Plemons as George Burbank
George Burbank’s attire is a fascinating blend of the traditional and the contemporary (of the 1920s). His style is a visual narrative of his character’s evolution and his growing aspirations for a different life.
- The Suit: George is often seen in well-fitted suits that exude a sense of quiet sophistication. They are typically in muted tones, with subtle patterns that suggest a man who cares about his appearance but doesn’t wish to draw undue attention.
- The Shirt: Beneath his jacket, his shirts are crisp and clean, often in whites or soft pastels, signaling his preference for a more refined lifestyle.
- The Tie: A tie is a consistent accessory for George, its style and knot meticulous, reinforcing his attention to detail and his desire for order.
- The Hat: His hat is less beaten, more structured than Phil’s, providing a clear distinction between the brothers’ worldviews.
- The Footwear: George’s shoes are polished, the leather cared for, a stark contrast to Phil’s worn boots.
In sum, to achieve George’s look, one must seek pieces that bridge the gap between rugged masculinity and a polished, progressive demeanor.
George Burbank – The Gentle Giant
Jesse Plemons’s portrayal of George Burbank stands in stark contrast to his on-screen brother. George is a gentle, soft-spoken man who seeks comfort in the modern amenities that the 1920s have to offer. He is the yin to Phil’s yang, a man who yearns for connection and companionship in a world where his brother finds solace in solitude.
George’s journey is one of transformation, as he navigates the complexities of love, loyalty, and what it means to chart one’s own course. Plemons brings a quiet dignity to the role, infusing George with an earnestness that makes his character’s evolution all the more poignant.
George Burbank’s Style – A Touch of Refinement
In contrast, George’s style represents his embrace of progress and civility. His suits are well-tailored, and his choice of fabrics suggests a man who values comfort as much as appearance. He strikes a balance between the rustic setting and the refined man he aspires to be.
Kodi Smit-McPhee as Peter Gordon
Peter Gordon, portrayed with a quiet intensity by Kodi Smit-McPhee, is an outsider, and his wardrobe is an extension of his delicate and enigmatic nature. His style is at once inconspicuous and laden with symbolism, each piece carefully chosen to reflect his character’s journey.
- The Coat: Peter’s most notable garment is his long, dark coat, almost always buttoned up, serving as armor against the world’s scrutiny. It envelops him, hinting at the secrets he holds close.
- The Trousers: His trousers are plain, often in darker shades, and fit in a manner that suggests practicality over fashion.
- The Shirt: Peter’s shirts are understated, with a clean collar and a fit that is neither too tight nor too loose, embodying his quiet presence.
- The Shoes: His footwear is simple, functional, not meant to stand out, much like Peter himself.
- The Accessories: Rarely does Peter adorn himself with accessories, but when he does, they’re subtle—a watch perhaps, or a simple hat, nothing that draws the eye for too long.
Peter’s fashion is a lesson in the power of understatement and the significance of clothing as a shield from the external world.
Kirsten Dunst as Rose Gordon
Rose’s transformation from a humble innkeeper to a ranch owner’s wife is mirrored in her evolving wardrobe. Her clothing encapsulates the 1920s feminine silhouette, with each article embodying her personal journey.
- The Dresses: Early on, Rose’s dresses are modest, with floral patterns and soft fabrics that speak of her gentle nature. As she transitions into her new role, her dresses become more structured, reflecting her attempt to fit into a world that is not entirely her own.
- The Blouses: Her blouses are delicate, often featuring lace or embroidery, a nod to the era’s appreciation for detail.
- The Skirts: Whether part of a dress or a separate piece, Rose’s skirts are cut to flatter her figure, a subtle reminder of her femininity amidst the harshness of her surroundings.
- The Shoes: Rose’s shoes evolve from practical to more decorative, with small heels and refined designs that signify her changing status.
- The Accessories: As Rose’s circumstances change, so do her accessories. She begins to wear jewelry, modest at first, but gradually more pronounced, signaling her complex relationship with her newfound affluence.
To channel Rose’s look, one must navigate the balance between the simplicity of her past and the complexities of her present.
Rose Gordon – The Flower Among Thorns
Kirsten Dunst’s Rose is the emotional heart of the film. A widow thrust into a new life fraught with challenges, Rose is a study in resilience. Dunst portrays Rose with a delicate balance of vulnerability and strength, a woman who is both haunted by her past and hopeful for her future.
Rose’s character arc is beautifully realized, as she grapples with the weight of her new circumstances and the shadow cast by Phil’s imposing presence. Amidst the turmoil, her grace and tenacity shine through, making her journey one of the most compelling aspects of the story.
Rose Gordon’s Style – Elegantly Understated
Rose’s wardrobe reflects her transition from a simple life to one of complexity and affluence. Her dresses are modest yet graceful, often adorned with delicate lace or floral patterns. The evolution of her style throughout the film mirrors her internal struggle and growth.
Genevií¨ve Lemon as Mrs Lewis
Genevieve Lemon’s Mrs. Lewis brings a touch of homeliness and warmth to the screen, her wardrobe a reflection of her role as the innkeeper. Her attire is simple, practical, and devoid of any frivolity. This is a woman who dresses for the day’s tasks, with comfort reigning supreme.
Her clothing choices signal her position within the social hierarchy, with muted colors and modest cuts. There’s a sense of permanence and reliability in her style, mirroring her steadfast presence in the life of the Burbank brothers.
Mrs. Lewis’s garments are less about fashion and more about function, and yet, there’s an undeniable sense of the era in the way her dresses hug her figure and the aprons she wears protect her from the day’s work. Her style is unassuming yet entirely appropriate for her character’s station, a testament to the film’s attention to detail.
Kenneth Radley as Barkeep
Ken Radley’s portrayal of the Barkeep offers a glimpse into the everyday man of the 1920s Western milieu. His garb is utilitarian, made to endure the rough-and-tumble of saloon life, with a hint of personal flair that makes the character memorable.
- The Vest: The Barkeep’s signature piece is his vest, often in a textured fabric that adds depth to his otherwise straightforward attire.
- The Shirt: Underneath, he sports a long-sleeved shirt, the sleeves frequently rolled up in a display of readiness for the physical demands of his occupation.
- The Trousers: His pants are sturdy, capable of withstanding the spills and stains that come with bartending in a busy establishment.
- The Apron: An apron is a requisite part of his uniform, protecting his clothes and serving as a tool of the trade, with pockets for the essentials.
- The Footwear: On his feet are shoes that prioritize comfort over style, often scuffed from the constant movement behind the bar.
The Barkeep’s outfit is a testament to the practical needs of his work, with just enough character to make him an integral part of the film’s backdrop.
Sean Keenan as Sven
Sean Keenan’s Sven is a character who doesn’t command the spotlight, yet his style subtly contributes to the film’s rich tapestry. His wardrobe is that of a young cowboy, functional and without pretense.
- The Work Shirt: Sven’s shirts are typical of a ranch hand, made of durable fabric that can withstand the rigors of daily labor.
- The Jeans: His jeans are a cowboy’s uniform, faded and worn in just the right places, suggesting hours spent on horseback.
- The Boots: His boots are practical, the leather scuffed from use, indicative of his active role on the ranch.
- The Hat: Though not as prominent as Phil’s, Sven’s hat serves the same purpose—to protect from the elements and complete the cowboy look.
- The Outerwear: When the temperature drops, Sven adds a layer with a simple jacket or coat, chosen more for warmth than for style.
Sven’s apparel is an ode to the unadorned but proud attire of the working cowboy.
Styling tips for different occasions
The film’s wardrobe is a masterclass in dressing appropriately for various circumstances, from the dusty trails of the ranch to the more formal events of the era.
- Outdoor Work: For labor-intensive outdoor activities, opt for sturdy fabrics and protective gear like hats and boots. Durability is key.
- Casual Town Visits: When visiting town, maintain the Western aesthetic but with a cleaner, more polished approach. A neat shirt and well-fitted jeans will suffice.
- Formal Occasions: For formal events, channel George Burbank’s style with a tailored suit and a crisp shirt, paying attention to fit and subtle details.
- Intimate Gatherings: At smaller, more personal gatherings, take cues from Rose’s evolution, choosing clothing that is comfortable yet elegant, allowing personality to shine through.
Each occasion demands a different sartorial strategy, blending practicality with the appropriate level of refinement.
Where to buy ‘The Power of the Dog (2021)’ inspired outfits
For those enchanted by the film’s wardrobe and looking to incorporate elements into their own closets, there are numerous avenues to explore.
- Vintage Stores: Seek out local vintage clothing stores for authentic pieces from the era or items that capture the film’s aesthetic.
- Western Wear Retailers: Specialty western wear shops are a treasure trove for cowboy hats, boots, and denim.
- Online Marketplaces: Websites like Etsy and eBay can be excellent sources for period-specific clothing and accessories.
- Custom Tailors: For a precise look, consider investing in custom-made garments from a tailor who specializes in period attire.
Remember to prioritize quality and authenticity to capture the true essence of the film’s style.
Conclusion: Embracing the Wild West aesthetic in everyday wear
Incorporating the Wild West aesthetic into daily attire isn’t about costume replication but about drawing inspiration from the film’s poignant character portrayals and their corresponding styles. It’s about channeling the rugged elegance of Phil Burbank, the understated grace of George, or the delicate resilience of Rose.
Adapting these looks for modern wear requires a selective approach—choosing pieces that evoke the same spirit without feeling out of place. Whether it’s a leather jacket reminiscent of Phil’s tough exterior or a lace blouse that echoes Rose’s femininity, the goal is to blend the past with the present seamlessly.
As you experiment with these styles, I invite you to share your unique style tips in the comments and revisit us for the latest updates on fashion advice and exclusive deals! Your journey through the fashion wilderness of ‘The Power of the Dog’ has the potential to transform not just your wardrobe but also your personal narrative. Embrace it with the same boldness and subtlety that the characters embody, and let your clothing tell your story.
