Insights into the Costuming of 'Abbott Elementary' by Costume Designer, Susan Michalek
Back to School Charm: A Deep Dive into the Costumes of Abbott Elementary
By Spencer Williams
The much-anticipated return of students to Abbott Elementary School offers an opportunity to delve into the enchanting world of the beloved comedy series, and the captivating costumes are no exception. Costume designer Susan Michalek shares the meticulous process behind the back-to-school flair that brings the vivid characters to life. From Janine Teagues' (Quinta Brunson) eccentric style to Barbara Howard's (Sheryl Lee Ralph) regal regality, discover the intricate journey of the Abbott Elementary costumes that add a delightful touch of authenticity to the cherished series.
Why Abbott Elementary?
As a costume designer renowned for her work on diverse shows, the allure of a comedy series set in an elementary school piqued Michalek's interest. What appealed to her was the chance to portray a more realistic representation of everyday life, with a focus on human authenticity rather than the stereotypical happy fashion often associated with comedies.
Collaboration and Creativity
Michalek worked closely with show creator Quinta Brunson and the writers to develop the costumes of the series. The collaboration between the creative team ensured that every element aligned with the intended visual aesthetic of the show. Michalek would receive scripts and have brief meetings with Brunson, presenting a range of options based on her descriptions and suggestions.
Research and Realism
To ensure the costumes accurately represented contemporary public school settings, Michalek undertook thorough research. Drawing inspiration from teacher-style blogs and Instagram feeds, she sought to incorporate an honest portrayal of fashion within the confines of a school environment, particularly in Philadelphia. The costumes aimed to reflect the economic realities of the characters and add to the show's overall authenticity.
The Kids Are Alright
Working with numerous young actors on the show posed unique challenges. Michalek's team collaborated closely with the children to dress them appropriately for each scene, taking into account their individual preferences and the need for a worn-in appearance to maintain the show's authenticity.
Janine and Her Evolution
As Janine evolves throughout the seasons, her costume choices reflect her professional growth. In season three, Michalek focused on tailoring suits to better fit Quinta Brunson's frame and giving her character a more polished look. Upon her return to Abbott Elementary, Janine's outfits still exuded a sense of self-confidence but were not overly fitted or extravagant, echoing her characteristic blend of vulnerability and determination.
Barbara's Regal Appeal
Sheryl Lee Ralph's character, Barbara Howard, embodies an air of elegance and sophistication. Michalek describes her style as "regal organically," with clothing often sourced from Macy's and Calvin Klein, ensuring a comfortable and wearable aesthetic for the beloved educator. Pearls and accessories add a touch of personal flair to her outfits.
Ava Coleman's Cool Style
With Janelle James' portrayal of Ava Coleman, Michalek has the opportunity to explore a character who defies traditional school norms. Focusing on working with James to create a wardrobe that reflects her natural coolness and undeniable charm, Michalek carefully curates a diverse selection of clothes for Ava, ensuring the character remains true to herself while staying within the school setting.
Outside the School Walls
Some of the most memorable costume moments occur off the school premises, such as Janine's glamorous party attire and the Mother's Day episode, where each character embraces their unique style. The creativity and collaboration sought by Michalek and her team create captivating and memorable moments that add to the overall charm and allure of Abbott Elementary.
In the process of depicting the diverse characters of Abbott Elementary, costume designer Susan Michalek intentionally strays away from the stereotypical happy fashion associated with comedies, instead focusing on a more authentic portrayal of everyday attire (collaboration and creativity). For instance, Sheryl Lee Ralph's character, Barbara Howard, dons regal outfits sourced from Macy's and Calvin Klein, while Ava Coleman, played by Janelle James, showcases a cool, unconventional style that reflects her unique personality (Barbara's Regal Appeal, Ava Coleman's Cool Style).
