Step aside, Lady Mary. There are a few new fashion stars at Downton Abbey this season.
As was customary amongst a certain set in 1922, because Lady Mary (Michelle Dockery) is in mourning, she’ll be stuck in a lot of dark, somber outfits in season 4, which premieres in the U.S. on Jan. 5.
Luckily, the style torch has been passed to a few other characters, who will lead Downton into the Jazz Age in style.
Jack Ross (Gary Carr): “His look is really different,” Downton Abbey costume designer Caroline McCall says of the new character, a dapper American jazz musician. “The other men are wearing practical country tweeds at Downton. [Jack] is much more flamboyant in his dress.” As the newest addition to the show — and the first black character — Jack has been described by exec producer Gareth Neame as “charming and charismatic,” qualities that will be reflected in his clothes.
Cousin Rose (Lily James): Downton’s resident rebel will take some of the biggest fashion risks. “Her clothes are more frivolous than the other women,” says McCall, who looked to the designs of French fashion house Lanvin for inspiration. “It’s easier lining things up for Rose because she wears things that the others wouldn’t wear.” But it won’t be all flapper dresses for the character, who will also wear plenty of knits and cardigans throughout the season. “Knitwear was becoming very fashionable because the Prince of Wales was starting to wear it,” explains McCall.
Lady Edith (Laura Carmichael): The most stylish surprise of season 4 will be Lady Edith’s new look. As she begins to break away from the house and find her own way in the big city of London, she’ll bust out a few outfits that will have viewers doing a double take. The first Downton Abbey fashion makeover!
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