Tale Spinning: Amy Higdon's Unique Method for Costume Design in 'Fancy Dance'
In an engaging interview, costume designer Amy Higdon discussed her work on the critically acclaimed film, "Fancy Dance." She shared insights into her creative process, the inspirations behind the characters' wardrobes, and her journey as a designer in the industry.
Journalist Spencer Williams initiated the conversation, welcoming Higdon and expressing his admiration for her first feature film. They delved into Higdon's previous collaboration with Jacqueline West and Julie O'Keefe on the Oscar-nominated "Killers of the Flower Moon," unveiling the impact this experience had on her approach to "Fancy Dance."
Discussing her strategy for crafting costumes for life on a reservation, Higdon explained that her ideas were shaped by the authentic portrayal in the script. As an Indigenous woman, she found a connection with the characters, which guided her decision-making throughout the design process.
Collaboration was crucial to the success of the costumes, and Higdon praised director Erica Tremblay for their open and fruitful partnership. Together, they ensured that the characters' wardrobes remained true to their personalities and the narrative's credibility.
Working closely with actors Lily Gladstone and Isabel Deroy-Olson, Higdon expressed admiration for their dedication, talent, and collaborative spirit. She recounted memories of Lily Gladstone's keen attention to detail during fittings, resulting in a strong understanding of the characters' identities and personalities.
The distinctive attire of the film, including Lily Gladstone's iconic vertical striped shirt and Isabel Deroy-Olson's vibrant purple jacket, was designed with intention and symbolism in mind. Each piece carried a powerful narrative, further enriching the film's storytelling.
The powwow scene, which takes place towards the end of the film, was a memorable and emotionally resonant moment. By enlisting the help of Indigenous community members, Higdon was able to capture the vibrancy, richness, and personal connections inherent in a powwow.
Reflecting on the project's significance, Higdon spoke about her lifelong dream of becoming a costume designer and the immense joy she derived from working on "Fancy Dance." The film brought together a talented team of Indigenous women, creating an unforgettable experience that will undoubtedly shape her future endeavors.
"Fancy Dance" is currently available for streaming on Apple TV.
In the interview, Amy Higdon detailed how her costume designs for "Fancy Dance" were influenced by the movie's authentic portrayal of reservation life, leaving a strong impression of the characters' personalities. Higdon's collaboration with fellow designers, actors, and Indigenous community members resulted in fashion-and-beauty choices that carried deep symbolism and contributed significantly to the storytelling. Furthermore, Higdon's achievements in costume design, demonstrated through projects like "Fancy Dance," have become an integral part of her lifestyle and ongoing career in entertainment and fashion-and-beauty industries.
