From the moment the first trailer for Cruella debuted, it immediately appeared to be a formidable contender for Best Costume Design at the Academy Awards. And a victory is now looking all but a certainty. Given the film focuses so heavily on the very creation of fashion, it’s hardly surprising Cruella has essentially led this race from the very beginning.
The costume designs of two-time winner Jenny Beaven are genuinely stunning. Emma Stone is adorned with an array of outlandish outfits that help shape the very persona of the titular character. It also helps this is a period film, which we know is always right up the Academy’s alley. With wins from BAFTA, Critics Choice, and the Costume Designers Guild, Beavan practically has a lock on her third Oscar.
Is there a case to be made for any of the other nominees? Jacqueline West (Dune) also scored a win from the CDG in the sci-fi/fantasy category, but the Academy generally favours period pieces over sci-fi epics. It’s a slight chance to score an upset win, but I can’t see it happening. The dazzling getups of the devilish Ms. de Vil are just too deliciously grandiose to ignore this year.
BEST COSTUME DESIGN PREDICTIONS:
1. Cruella (Disney)
Jenny Beavan
2. Dune (Warner Bros.)
Jacqueline West
3. West Side Story (20th Century Studios)
Paul Tazewell
4. Nightmare Alley (Searchlight Pictures)
Milena Cananero
5. Cyrano (MGM)
Massimo Cantini Parrini
Will win: Cruella
Should win: Cruella
Possible shocker: West Side Story
