If you haven’t started Anatomy of a Scandal on Netflix yet, please listen to me and do it. The plot is gripping, yes, but it was the interior and Sienna Miller’s wardrobe which really had me compelled. Miller plays Sophie Whitehouse, the wife of politician James who becomes the centre of a cheating scandal which ends up in a trial.
“Actors say this all the time, but I really do feel that there’s a story you’re telling through what you wear,” Miller explained to Harper’s Bazaar. “Like when she was power dressing, I made the decision to only wear coats on my shoulder. Weird things that you do as character choices.” Sophie’s wardrobe is an important part of the show, as costume director Sam Perry carefully assembled a capsule of quiet luxury items from The Row, Celine, Victoria Beckham and Cefinn.
“Clothing is power but it isn’t necessarily happiness. Your whole world can still fall apart if you’re wearing a nice frock,” Perry says to The Times of the styling. The deterioration is carefully reflected in the costumes, as she dresses more casually throughout the series.
Whitehouse might have a power Westminster wardrobe, however it is softer than the overly formal trouser suits and coat dresses you might associate with political figures. There is a focus on a beautiful colour palette and beautiful fabrics, which is a quiet approach to luxury.
Next up, see our spring shopping guide for 2022.
