The much-anticipated final season of the popular Netflix series Stranger Things is now available for streaming, and costume designer Amy Parris has shared her insights into the creative process behind the characters’ wardrobes. With the show’s distinctive 1980s aesthetic already established, Parris approached her role with a clear vision of how to evolve the costumes to reflect the characters’ journeys.
“Costume designers are storytellers,” Parris stated, emphasizing that each piece of clothing serves as a narrative tool. She explained, “We tell our version of the characters’ story; sometimes it’s very obvious, while at other times it’s conveyed subliminally through fabric type and fit.” Her commitment to storytelling through costumes has become a hallmark of the series, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a deeper level.
Curating the Final Wardrobe
As Parris prepared for Season Five, she recognized the need for a wardrobe that not only honored the show’s legacy but also adapted to its darker tone. “I didn’t show up empty-handed,” she recalled. “I brought inspiration boards, knowing this next season would be a year further and in the summer.” By diving into old family photos and 1980s magazines, she aimed to introduce a lighter, brighter tone in response to the series’ evolution.
Yet, the challenges for this final installment are significant. “This season finds fewer costume changes for the cast,” Parris noted. Balancing character development with practical considerations, she ensured that each outfit was visually appealing, comfortable for the actors, and capable of enduring the demands of filming in Atlanta. The ensemble cast, which includes Finn Wolfhard, Winona Ryder, and Gaten Matarazzo, requires multiple outfits due to the intense action sequences this season.
“Much will be revealed in the finale,” Parris hinted, while deliberately avoiding spoilers. The costumes are designed to withstand the rigors of the plot, which features numerous stunts and significant character development.
Inspiration from 1980s Cinema
Parris drew heavily from iconic 1980s films to inform the wardrobe choices for the characters. She referenced classics such as “A Nightmare on Elm Street” and “The Goonies,” using them as a foundation for her designs. For a new character named Derek, played by Jake Connelly, Parris looked specifically at “Three O’Clock High” for inspiration, allowing her to envision a unique direction for the character’s style.
The evolution of the characters from adolescence to young adulthood is also reflected in their clothing. Parris remarked on how the costumes have become more mature, aligning with the characters’ journeys. “You’ll find a person’s disposition can be conveyed from lighter to darker colors,” she explained, highlighting how character emotions are expressed through their attire.
A notable example is Dustin, portrayed by Gaten Matarazzo, whose clothing reflects his internal struggles. Similarly, Hopper wears protective gear that serves as armor, while Eleven, played by Millie Bobby Brown, dons training outfits that showcase her developing strength.
As fans eagerly await the final chapters of the Stranger Things saga, Parris’s work in crafting unique, character-driven costumes continues to resonate deeply with the audience. Part One of Season Five is currently available, with Part Two set to debut on December 25, 2025, followed by the series finale on December 31, 2025. The culmination of these creative efforts promises to deliver an unforgettable conclusion to the beloved series.
