Top 10 'Costume-to-Closet' TV Show Aesthetics to adopt for Your Ultimate Style Glow-Up in 2025 - Goh Ling Yong
Have you ever finished binge-watching a show and found yourself not just thinking about the plot twists, but about a character's incredible collection of coats or their perfectly curated office attire? You're not alone. In an age of endless streaming, our screens have become the new runways, with costume designers acting as the unsung tastemakers of our generation. The line between what a character wears and what we want to wear has never been blurrier, and frankly, it's the most exciting thing to happen to personal style in years.
This phenomenon, which I love to call 'Costume-to-Closet', is all about drawing inspiration from the meticulously crafted worlds of television to inform and elevate our own wardrobes. It’s not about dressing in a costume; it's about identifying the core principles of an aesthetic you love and translating them into wearable, authentic looks. It’s about capturing a feeling—be it the quiet confidence of a media mogul or the cozy creativity of an amateur sleuth—and weaving it into your daily life.
So, as we look towards 2025, let's move beyond fleeting trends and think about building a wardrobe that tells a story. Your story. Get ready to press play on your ultimate style glow-up. Here are the top 10 TV show aesthetics you can seamlessly adopt for a more inspired and intentional wardrobe.
1. The 'Succession' Effect: Mastering Quiet Luxury
If you’ve ever admired the effortlessly chic, logo-free ensembles of Shiv Roy, you've witnessed the power of "quiet luxury." This aesthetic is the antithesis of flashy trends. It whispers wealth, it doesn’t shout. It’s about immaculate tailoring, the finest materials money can buy (think cashmere, silk, and merino wool), and a muted, neutral color palette that exudes confidence and control. The Roys' wardrobe is a masterclass in communicating power through subtlety.
The key to unlocking this look is a ruthless focus on quality and fit. Forget logos and brand names; the luxury is in the fabric's feel and the garment's drape. Start with foundational pieces: a perfectly cut blazer in navy or camel, a simple-yet-sumptuous cashmere crewneck, tailored trousers that skim the body just so, and a classic leather tote bag. The color palette is your best friend here—lean into shades of beige, grey, cream, olive, and black.
How to get the look:
- Invest in one spectacular coat. A well-made trench or a long wool overcoat can elevate every single outfit you own.
- Prioritize natural fabrics. Swap polyester for silk, acrylic for cashmere or merino wool. The difference in how the clothes look, feel, and last is immense.
- Find a great tailor. The secret to the Succession look is that everything fits flawlessly. A few nips and tucks can make a mid-range suit look like a million bucks.
2. The 'Bridgerton' Buzz: Regencycore Romance
Escape into the romantic, hyper-feminine world of Bridgerton. Regencycore is all about embracing softness, elegance, and a touch of fairytale whimsy. While you might not be wearing a full ballgown to brunch, you can easily incorporate the show's signature elements into a modern wardrobe. Think puff sleeves, empire waistlines, delicate floral prints, and a pastel color palette of baby blues, soft pinks, and creamy ivories.
This aesthetic is perfect for anyone who wants to inject more femininity and grace into their style. It’s less about historical accuracy and more about capturing a romantic mood. Look for blouses with delicate ruffles or puff sleeves, nap dresses with high waistlines, and accessories like pearl headbands, velvet ribbons, and dainty gold jewelry. It's a soft rebellion against the hard edges of modern life.
How to get the look:
- Focus on the silhouette. An empire-waist dress or top is the easiest way to channel the Regency vibe. It's universally flattering and incredibly comfortable.
- Play with accessories. A simple outfit can be transformed with a pearl-embellished headband, a pair of long satin gloves for an evening out, or a delicate cameo necklace.
- Embrace soft textures. Think chiffon, tulle, organza, and satin. A simple satin slip skirt paired with a soft knit is a perfect modern interpretation.
3. 'The Bear' Uniform: Elevated Utilitarianism
Yes, chef! The surprise style icon of the past few years has been Carmen "Carmy" Berzatto from The Bear. His look is a masterclass in elevated utilitarianism—a philosophy built on high-quality, durable, and perfectly fitted basics. It's a rugged, no-fuss aesthetic that prizes function and timeless design over fleeting trends. Think classic white t-shirts, selvedge denim, and hardy workwear.
The magic of Carmy's style is in the details. It’s not just any white t-shirt; it’s a perfectly weighted, impeccably constructed one. It’s not just any pair of jeans; they are dark, raw denim that molds to the wearer over time. This is the ultimate "buy less, buy better" approach. It’s about building a uniform of reliable pieces that make you feel capable and put-together, even on the most chaotic days.
How to get the look:
- Find your perfect white t-shirt. This is the cornerstone. Look for brands that specialize in high-quality basics with heavier cotton.
- Invest in one great pair of jeans. Consider raw or selvedge denim that will age beautifully. A straight-leg or slim-fit cut is a timeless choice.
- Add a piece of classic workwear. A chore coat, a sturdy canvas apron (even for cooking at home), or a pair of boots like Blundstones or Red Wings completes the look.
4. 'Only Murders in the Building': Cozy Eclectic Academia
Step into the Arconia with a style that’s as smart, quirky, and cozy as the show itself. Mabel Mora, played by Selena Gomez, is the queen of this aesthetic. It's a warmer, more vibrant cousin of Dark Academia, blending preppy staples with bold, eclectic pieces. The foundation is built on classic autumnal elements: turtlenecks, plaid trousers, and chunky knits.
What makes this look so special is the unexpected pop of color and texture. It's the bright yellow faux fur coat, the vibrant orange sweater, or the perfectly worn-in pair of combat boots that cuts through the classicism. It’s a style that feels curated and personal, as if each piece was found in a favorite vintage shop or inherited from a stylish relative. It's intellectual without being stuffy, and comfortable without being sloppy.
How to get the look:
- Master the art of layering. A turtleneck under a crewneck sweater, topped with a statement coat, is the signature formula.
- Invest in a statement coat. This is the hero piece. Look for a bold color (mustard yellow, emerald green) or a classic pattern (plaid, houndstooth) in a timeless silhouette.
- Mix high and low. Pair your investment coat with a simple pair of plaid pants from a high-street store and a cozy, oversized knit. It’s all about the mix.
5. 'Emily in Paris': Unapologetic Dopamine Dressing
Say "oui" to color, print, and pure, unadulterated fun. While Emily's style can be divisive, its core principle—dopamine dressing—is a powerful tool for a style glow-up. This aesthetic is about using clothes to boost your mood. It’s a riot of vibrant hues, clashing patterns, and over-the-top accessories. It throws the rulebook out the window in favor of expressing joy and creativity.
You don't have to go full-on Emily to adopt this philosophy. It can be as simple as adding a hot pink blazer to your work wardrobe, trying a bold floral print, or investing in a statement handbag in a cheerful color. It’s about being brave and letting your personality shine through your clothes. This is the perfect antidote to a wardrobe full of neutrals.
How to get the look:
- Start with one bold piece. If you’re new to color, pick one item—a bright green sweater, a pair of cobalt blue trousers—and keep the rest of your outfit neutral.
- Play with print mixing. The easiest way to do this is to stick to a similar color family. A navy-and-white striped shirt looks fantastic with a navy-and-white polka dot skirt.
- Don't forget the accessories. A quirky beret, a colorful scarf, or a pair of novelty sunglasses can add a dose of Parisian fun to any look.
6. 'The Queen's Gambit': Sharp '60s Mod Revival
Beth Harmon’s journey from orphan to chess grandmaster is mirrored in her stunning style evolution, which is a love letter to 1960s Mod fashion. This aesthetic is defined by clean lines, graphic prints, and a sophisticated, intellectual charm. Think A-line mini dresses, Peter Pan collars, sharp check-print coats, and sleek turtlenecks.
The palette is often muted and sophisticated—lots of black, white, and cream, punctuated with soft pastels like mint green and pale blue. This is a look that celebrates structure and polish. It’s incredibly chic and has a timeless quality that makes it easy to integrate into a 2025 wardrobe. A simple, well-cut A-line dress is as elegant today as it was in 1965.
How to get the look:
- Embrace the A-line silhouette. Whether it's a skirt, a dress, or a coat, this flattering shape is the heart of the Mod look.
- Incorporate graphic prints. Checks, houndstooth, and geometric patterns are key. A check-print coat or a pair of trousers is a great place to start.
- Focus on the details. A simple black dress is instantly elevated by a crisp white Peter Pan collar. Look for pieces with unique button details or sharp tailoring.
7. 'The Gilded Age': New-Age Opulence
For the maximalists at heart, The Gilded Age offers a treasure trove of inspiration. This isn't about replicating historical costumes but about capturing the show's spirit of opulence, drama, and exquisite craftsmanship. In 2025, this translates to rich textures, dramatic silhouettes, and a love for decadent details.
Think in terms of fabric and structure. Incorporate velvet, brocade, satin, and lace into your evening or even daytime wear. One of the most wearable translations is the modern corset top, which can be layered over a billowy white shirt or worn on its own with high-waisted trousers. It's about adding a touch of historical romance and grandeur to your everyday look without feeling like you're in costume.
How to get the look:
- Focus on one opulent piece. Let a velvet blazer, a brocade skirt, or a lace-trimmed camisole be the star of your outfit.
- Embrace dramatic sleeves. A puff-sleeve or bishop-sleeve blouse is an easy nod to the era's dramatic silhouettes.
- Accessorize with intention. Look for ornate jewelry, perhaps with a vintage feel, or a structured handbag to complete the look.
8. 'Euphoria': Distilled Gen Z Edge
While the exact looks from Euphoria might be best saved for a costume party, the show's influence on mainstream fashion is undeniable. The core of this aesthetic is fearless self-expression. It’s about breaking rules, playing with gender norms, and using clothing as a form of armor and art. To make it wearable, we can distill its key elements: cut-outs, mesh fabrics, and creative layering.
The Euphoria-inspired look for your everyday closet is about adding a touch of edge and vulnerability. It could be a simple black top with an unexpected cut-out at the shoulder, a mesh long-sleeve tee layered under a band t-shirt, or pairing a delicate slip dress with chunky combat boots. It’s about the surprising contrast and the confidence to wear something a little bit different.
How to get the look:
- Incorporate strategic cut-outs. A top or dress with a tasteful cut-out detail is a modern and sophisticated way to channel the trend.
- Layer with sheer fabrics. A sheer or mesh top layered under a blazer or a slip dress adds texture and edge to a classic look.
- Mix hard and soft. The key to the Euphoria vibe is contrast. Pair a feminine piece, like a satin skirt, with something tough, like a leather jacket and boots.
9. 'The Crown' (Diana Years): Sloane Ranger & Power Prep
The enduring style of Princess Diana, as beautifully recreated in The Crown, is having a major revival. Her journey from the demure "Sloane Ranger" to a global fashion icon offers two distinct but related aesthetics. The first is a cozy, preppy look: think kitschy sheep-print sweaters, oversized pie-crust collars, and well-tailored trousers. It’s academic, charming, and a little bit countryside.
The second is her iconic '80s and '90s power dressing. This means sharp-shouldered blazers, chic cycling shorts paired with oversized sweatshirts, and elegant, simple gowns. Goh Ling Yong often speaks about the power of a single, well-chosen garment to communicate confidence, and Diana's wardrobe was a testament to this. It's about finding strength in both classic tailoring and casual sportswear.
How to get the look:
- Embrace the statement knit. A sweater vest or a jumper with a bold pattern (like argyle or a novelty print) is an instant nod to early Diana.
- Invest in an oversized blazer. Worn with jeans, a dress, or even cycling shorts, a slightly oversized, strong-shouldered blazer is a versatile power piece.
- Don't shy away from a statement collar. A blouse with an oversized, ruffled, or lace-trimmed collar peeking out from under a sweater or blazer is pure '80s elegance.
10. 'Severance': Dystopian Corporate Core
For the minimalist who loves a bit of a strange, intellectual twist, the aesthetic of Severance is a goldmine. On the surface, it’s muted, retro-inspired corporate wear. But underneath, it’s a sharp, clean, and slightly unnerving look that can be incredibly chic when taken out of Lumon Industries. The palette is strictly controlled: shades of blue, muted green, grey, and beige.
The silhouettes are key—think slightly wide-leg trousers, simple short-sleeved knit tops, and unassuming but perfectly fitted shift dresses. There are no frills, no logos, and no distractions. This is a look for someone who appreciates the power of a uniform and finds freedom in simplicity. It’s about clean lines, subtle textures, and a quiet confidence that doesn't need to announce itself.
How to get the look:
- Build a color capsule. Pick two or three muted colors (like navy, forest green, and cream) and build your wardrobe around them.
- Focus on '70s-inspired silhouettes. Look for A-line skirts that hit just below the knee, high-waisted trousers with a slight flare, and simple, high-necked knit tops.
- Keep accessories to a minimum. A simple, classic watch and understated leather shoes are all you need. The power of this look is in its stark simplicity.
Ultimately, your personal style is just that—personal. Use these on-screen worlds not as a prescription, but as a source of inspiration to help you discover what truly excites you. Whether you're drawn to the bold joy of Emily in Paris or the understated power of Succession, the goal is to find the pieces and principles that make you feel like the main character in your own life.
So, which TV show aesthetic will you be channeling for your 2025 style glow-up? I'd love to hear your favorites and any other shows that have inspired your wardrobe! Drop a comment below and let's talk all things 'Costume-to-Closet'.
About the Author
Goh Ling Yong is a content creator and digital strategist sharing insights across various topics. Connect and follow for more content:
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