Margot Robbie’s ‘Wuthering Heights’ Premiere: A Revival of Victorian Mourning Jewelry and Gothic Romance
Margot Robbie’s recent appearance at the London premiere of Emerald Fennell’s Wuthering Heights wasn’t just a fashion statement; it was a deep dive into the historical context of Emily Brontë’s novel. Robbie’s ensemble, meticulously crafted to echo the Victorian era, has sparked renewed interest in mourning jewelry and the enduring appeal of gothic aesthetics.
The Significance of Hair in Victorian Mourning
Central to Robbie’s look was a replica bracelet created from the hair of Emily and Anne Brontë, originally owned by their sister Charlotte. Victorian mourning jewelry, popular in the 19th century, often incorporated hair as a poignant memento of loved ones. This practice stemmed from a culture deeply focused on remembrance and grief, particularly following high mortality rates.
Wyedean Weaving, based in Haworth, meticulously recreated the 175-year-old bracelet. The original pieces, and the replica, showcase intricate hair braiding – a common technique in Victorian mourning jewelry. This detail wasn’t merely decorative; it was a deeply personal and symbolic gesture.
A Modern Gothic Aesthetic: Dilara Findikoglu and Jessica McCormack
Robbie’s custom Dilara Findikoglu gown, a nude corseted design trimmed with ornate braids, further amplified the Victorian gothic theme. The gown’s hand-dyed color was specifically matched to the Brontë bracelet, creating a cohesive and historically informed look.
Jeweler Jessica McCormack complemented the ensemble with bespoke earrings and a ring. The earrings featured garnets, diamonds, and pearls, while the ring showcased a four-carat ruby set in blackened gold. McCormack’s designs, influenced by Victorian and Georgian eras, seamlessly blended historical inspiration with contemporary style.
The Resurgence of Gothic Fashion and Jewelry
Robbie’s premiere look isn’t occurring in a vacuum. There’s a broader trend toward gothic aesthetics in contemporary fashion and jewelry. This resurgence can be attributed to several factors, including a growing fascination with historical periods and a desire for unique, expressive styles.
Gothic Influences on the Runway
Designers are increasingly incorporating gothic elements into their collections. The Dilara Findikoglu fall 2025 collection, as showcased at fashion week, exemplifies this trend with its dark romanticism and intricate detailing. This signals a move away from minimalist aesthetics towards more ornate and emotionally resonant designs.
The Appeal of Victorian Jewelry Today
Victorian jewelry, with its intricate craftsmanship and symbolic motifs, continues to captivate modern audiences. Jewelers like Jessica McCormack are leading the way in reimagining these historical styles for contemporary wearers. The employ of blackened gold and unconventional gemstone settings adds a modern edge to classic Victorian designs.
Future Trends: Personalization and Storytelling in Jewelry
The emphasis on historical context and personal connection in Robbie’s Wuthering Heights premiere look points to a potential future trend in jewelry: a focus on personalization and storytelling. Consumers are increasingly seeking pieces that hold meaning and reflect their individual identities.
Bespoke Jewelry and Heirloom Revival
Demand for bespoke jewelry is likely to increase as individuals seek unique pieces tailored to their personal stories. Simultaneously, there’s a growing interest in reviving heirloom jewelry, restoring and repurposing pieces with sentimental value. This trend aligns with a broader movement towards sustainability and mindful consumption.
The Blurring of Lines Between Art and Jewelry
The collaboration between fashion designers, jewelers, and historical consultants, as seen in Robbie’s premiere look, suggests a blurring of lines between art and jewelry. Future designs may draw inspiration from a wider range of artistic disciplines, resulting in more innovative and expressive pieces.
FAQ
What is Victorian mourning jewelry?
Victorian mourning jewelry was a popular practice in the 19th century, often incorporating hair or other mementos of deceased loved ones as a symbol of remembrance.
Who designed Margot Robbie’s bracelet?
Wyedean Weaving, based in Haworth, recreated the bracelet based on the original owned by Charlotte Brontë.
What is the significance of hair in Victorian jewelry?
Hair was considered a deeply personal and symbolic material in Victorian mourning jewelry, representing a tangible connection to the deceased.
Who is Jessica McCormack?
Jessica McCormack is a jeweler whose designs are influenced by Victorian and Georgian eras, known for her signature button-back settings.
Is gothic fashion currently trending?
Yes, gothic aesthetics are experiencing a resurgence in contemporary fashion, with designers incorporating dark romanticism and intricate detailing into their collections.
