The Idea of You: Redefining Age-Gap Dressing in Romance

“The Idea of You” seems to have struck a chord with its portrayal of age-gap dressing, weaving it seamlessly into the fabric of the story. The film’s costume designer, Jacqueline Demeterio, approached the task with sensitivity and insight, ensuring that the characters’ wardrobes reflected not just their age difference but also their individual personalities and journeys.

Solène’s character, played by Anne Hathaway, stands out as a sophisticated woman in her 40s who exudes confidence and style without trying to appear younger than she is. Demeterio carefully selected pieces from high-end labels like Chloé, Isabel Marant, Etro, and Chanel to create a wardrobe that is both chic and age-appropriate. Solène’s fashion choices evolve throughout the film, mirroring her personal growth and newfound sense of self after motherhood.

In contrast, Hayes, portrayed by Nicholas Galitzine, represents youth and vitality as a member of the fictional boy band August Moon. Demeterio opted for a mix of elevated classics and streetwear to capture Hayes’s style, drawing inspiration from artists like Harry Styles and Matty Healy. She paid attention to details like tailored T-shirts and designer pieces to convey Hayes’s status as a young heartthrob.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Demeterio’s costume design is how she uses clothing to highlight the 16-year age gap between Solène and Hayes. In scenes where they are together, their contrasting attire subtly underscores their differences in age and life experience, adding depth to their relationship dynamics.

Overall, “The Idea of You” offers a refreshing take on age-gap dressing in romantic films, challenging stereotypes and presenting characters who are authentic, relatable, and stylish in their own right.