Game of Thrones costume designer explains the grim inspiration for Daenerys’ outfits

Today, the BAFTA TV Craft Awards recognize the best in behind-the-scenes television talent, from writers to editors to costume designers. Usually, that would mean a ceremony and a podium and small plates and the whole awards show nine yards, but we’re living in the world of corona, so the awards will proceed online with a digital-only ceremony hosted by actor Stephen Mangan.

But that’s no reason not to celebrate the nominees, which include costume designers from shows like His Dark Materials, Chernobyl and Game of Thrones. Ahead of the ceremony, Variety talked to Game of Thrones costumer Michele Clapton about one of the most distinctive outfits from the final two seasons: Daenerys Targaryen’s snow-white coat, sometimes streaked with red.

“It’s cold, so furs were the natural direction available,” Clapton said. “We constructed it out of strips of fake fur leather and tape. It was mounted onto a canvas corset to support it. When she first wore this look I felt that there should be a definite shift in her look as she embarks on the mission of aiding Jon’s team, which is trapped north of the Wall. I think it was the first time that she had been to the aid of another individual, without personal gain, and she was putting herself at risk. I wanted her to appear like an angel of mercy. I think Dany liked to make dramatic gestures.”

Yeah, I’m give some pretty heavy side-eye to that “this was the first time Dany helped someone for something other than personal gain” line, but it was indeed a shock the first time we saw Dany in winterwear. She’d worn white before, but nothing like this.

“The shoulder shape was inspired by her brother’s costume,” Clapton continued. “It also gave her a strong shape and emphasized her narrow waist so that the coat didn’t overwhelm her small frame yet still looked powerful.”

"In later versions, I added more red to them. This can be interpreted as more Targaryen, or as reflecting the blood of the many people killed in her search for power. Or both."

The red started to creep in once season 8 started. Yeesh, if you listen to Clapton this outfit reflects pretty badly on Dany. Looks great, though.

Best of luck to Michele at the awards!

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