Academy Awards 2025: Could Wicked: Part One Win Best Costume Design?

The 2025 Academy Awards are rapidly approaching, and speculation is rife about which films will take home the coveted golden statuettes. Among the most anticipated categories is Best Costume Design, and Wicked: Part One, with its lavish and imaginative costumes, is a strong contender. But can it overcome the stiff competition?

The Costumes of Wicked: Part One

Wicked: Part One transported audiences to the magical land of Oz, reimagining familiar characters and introducing new ones with breathtaking detail. Costume designer Paul Tazewell, known for his Tony Award-winning work on Hamilton and the Academy Award-nominated costumes of West Side Story (2021), faced the daunting task of creating over 1,000 costumes for the film. He not only had to honor the iconic imagery of the original Broadway production and L. Frank Baum’s classic novel but also forge a unique visual identity for the film adaptation.

Tazewell’s approach was rooted in symbolism and character development. For Elphaba, the misunderstood green-skinned witch, he drew inspiration from the natural world, incorporating textures and patterns reminiscent of roots, bark, and fungi. Her signature black attire, while partly a nod to the original Wizard of Oz, also reflects her internal struggles and her mourning for her mother. In contrast, Glinda’s costumes embody lightness and airiness, with an array of pinks inspired by Billie Burke’s portrayal of Glinda in the 1939 film. Her iconic Bubble Dress, a feat of engineering and artistry, became a symbol of her effervescent personality.

Could Wicked: Part One win Best Costume Design at the 97^th Academy Awards? The odds at 22bet21.com are pretty high, at 1.17/1 or 85.50%, meaning it’s in with a very good chance.

A Diverse Field of Contenders

Wicked: Part One faces formidable competition in the Best Costume Design category. Arianne Phillips’ work on A Complete Unknown, Lisy Christl’s designs for Conclave, the collaborative effort of Janty Yates and Dave Crossman on Gladiator II, and Linda Muir’s creations for Nosferatu all represent distinct stylistic approaches and impressive craftsmanship. Each film presents a unique challenge for its costume designer, from the historical accuracy required for period pieces to the fantastical creations demanded by genre films.

Tazewell’s Vision

Tazewell’s work on Wicked: Part One goes beyond simply dressing the characters; it tells a story. He collaborated closely with a team of over 70 artisans, utilizing cutting-edge technology like 3D printing to create intricate props and accessories. The attention to detail is evident in every element, from the swirling tornado heel of Nessarose’s silver slipper to the poppy motif woven into Elphaba’s mother’s dress. These subtle touches add depth and meaning to the costumes, enriching the overall narrative.

A Difficult Prediction

While Wicked: Part One‘s costumes are undeniably stunning and integral to the film’s success, the other nominees also boast impressive credentials. The Academy’s decision will likely depend on various factors, including the overall impact of the costumes, the level of innovation and creativity, and the degree to which the costumes contribute to the film’s narrative.

A Testament to the Power of Costume Design

The intricate detail, innovative techniques, and symbolic significance woven into each costume make a compelling case for Wicked: Part One to take home the Oscar. However, with such a strong field of contenders, the final decision remains in the hands of the Academy.