A Distinctive Approach to Costuming

In Drop, a psychological thriller directed by Christopher Landon, costume designer Gwen Jeffares Hourie plays a pivotal role in shaping the visual narrative. Although her face may not appear on screen, her creative fingerprints are unmistakable, especially in the film’s memorable costumes, such as the striking red catsuit worn by star Meghann Fahy.

Jeffares Hourie shared her insights on entering the world of film, stating, “How did I get into costuming? I don’t know. We all just fall into film. Isn’t that how it happens?” Her journey into costume design began after her family’s fabric shop in Bray, Ireland, closed, leading her to explore opportunities in the film industry.

From Trainee to Costume Designer

Jeffares Hourie’s career took off when she started as a trainee on the musical comedy Sing Street. Gradually, she collaborated with established designers, eventually working as a costume supervisor on projects like Cocaine Bear. She articulated her passion for horror films, revealing, “I love blood. I love horror. I love all of that.”

The Story of ‘Drop’

Drop revolves around a first date that escalates into a chilling murder attempt. The plot unfolds over a single evening as Violet (played by Meghann Fahy), a widowed single mother, attempts to navigate a budding romance with photographer Henry (Brandon Sklenar). Tension escalates when Violet receives threatening messages, forcing her into a desperate situation.

Costume Design: A Character in Itself

Hourie’s design for Violet aimed to create a confident yet complex character. “What I loved about the script from the start is that she is the accidental hero, not the male lead,” she explained. Her costumes not only enhance Violet’s character but are integral to the film’s visual storytelling.

One of the standout pieces, a custom-made jumpsuit, reflects Jeffares Hourie’s fascination with fabric. She noted her “small obsession” with velvet, particularly its ability to captivate on camera. While the jumpsuit’s bold red hue was initially a suggestion by Fahy, it became a defining element of Violet’s character, enhancing her presence in a crucial narrative.

Cinematic Impact of Color

In discussing the significance of color, Jeffares Hourie remarked, “I think the script originally called it this ‘beautiful black garment.’ And I was like, ‘Black? No. Get out of here.’” The designer chose a sophisticated burgundy to strike the right balance for the film’s atmosphere, ensuring Fahy’s character stood out without clashing with the overall set design.

This careful color selection also served practical purposes. “We knew burgundy would look beautiful against her skin, against her hair,” Hourie noted, highlighting the importance of aesthetics in filmmaking.

A Collaborative Process

Collaboration played a vital role in the costume design process. Hourie and Fahy exchanged ideas extensively to achieve the final look, resulting in a jumpsuit that not only looks good but also accommodates the physical demands of the film’s action sequences.

Jeffares Hourie confirmed that designing Violet’s outfit involved considerable iterations, stating, “There were 24 versions of the jumpsuit in total,” showcasing her dedication to ensuring both visual appeal and comfort.

Conclusion

Gwen Jeffares Hourie’s work in Drop exemplifies how costume design can elevate storytelling, offering a layer of complexity to character development. As audiences engage with the film, they will undoubtedly appreciate the nuanced choices that support its narrative. The film is available for viewing on digital platforms and will soon stream on Peacock.