Persuasion

Persuasion was adapted for BBC television in 1995. It starred Amanda Root as Anne Elliot and Ciaran Hinds as Captain Wentworth. The costumes were designed by Alexandra Byrne.

 

The adaptation was shot on location in Bath. Alexandra’s costumes had to reflect the common daytime pursuits of Bath’s elegant visitors: shopping, visiting the Pump Room, and sheltering from the rain in Molland’s, a fashionable sweetshop, where Anne has the good fortune to meet Captain Wentworth.

 

The costumes had to stand out against grey weather, and against Bath’s distinctive architecture. They show a sure and clear sense of colour, which is adapted to suit each character. Phoebe Nicholls plays the pretentious Miss Elliot, older sister to the heroine Anne. Her brilliant yellow cropped jacket, or spencer, worn with matching hat, is designed to be eye-catching.

 

Alexandra Byrne’s work is characterised by the thorough historical research she undertakes in many museums, including the Museum of Costume. Her use of white cotton dresses, contrasting strongly with colourful spencers, is very reminiscent of early nineteenth century fashion engravings that she may have studied.

Image: Persuasion display case, cream dresses with gold coloured or green sleeved bodices and matching bonnets, as worn in the film

Costumes worn in the Molland's scene, Persuasion

 

Image: Persuasion display case, with original blue silk gown shown next to red patterned silk gown as worn in the film

Costume worn by Phoebe Nicholls as Miss Elliot