Up until recently, most of us knew euphoria as this:

Eu·pho·ri·a


   /yo͞oˈfôrēə/ 

noun. a feeling of well-being or elation

But now, with HBO’s hit show, the word Euphoria has a whole new meaning, one that transcends what can be found on Merriam-Webster. And while I could spend hours upon hours talking about every aspect of the show (flaws included), it’s better to keep it focused on one facet of the show. I think that the most unique takeaway is Euphoria’s impact on fashion, especially in how they are expressed within the fabric of the show. With the creative direction for Euphoria and the real-life counterparts of the cast both pushing the boundaries of fashion representation, viewers have warmed up to the idea of these characters being the epitome of their respective styles. And while ultimately most of the trends have existed for some time already, the platform that this show provided helped expedite previously niche fashions into the spotlight.

The obvious place to start is the style we saw on the screen thanks to costume designer Heidi Bivens. I think it is important to make note that although many parts of this show still have Hollywood’s touch, the fashion in Euphoria is realistic. Yes, many of us do not have the confidence to pull off a look in the caliber of Maddy Perez’s custom I.AM.GIA ensemble, but very few of the looks you see are designer or impossible to recreate. Take Maddy’s Louis Vuitton workout set: not actually Louis Vuitton, but a knock-off. And for Jules Vaughn and Kat Hernandez, while their looks are layered with complexity, are also quite achievable (note: a few of Jules’ outfits feature designer items, but that is to be true to her character). Since they include so many layers and accessories, you could borrow parts from their looks and adapt them to your personal style.

Where I believe Euphoria was able to really run away with their success with popular fashion is simply due to the vast range of fashions represented. While the above mentioned were certainly the most flashy, characters like Rue, Cassie, and Nate (yes, even him) are much more subtle with their fashion, yet are also just as impactful. With the inclusion of these characters, we’re are able to bridge the gap in relatability. Had everyone dressed like Jules in every scene, the impact of her wardrobe would not have as far a reach and people would probably see the show as an “art experiment.” Tragic, really. But because we see both worn out chucks and a Chanel inspired two-piece, we are able to place ourselves in the spectrum of Euphoria fashion.

The makeup choices in it of themselves are also very memorable. Doniella Davy, head make up artist for the show, was able to help highlight the fashion through the calculated use of nontraditional makeup techniques. Usually, we only see makeup like this editorially, but by allowing characters to adorn themselves with more adventurous makeup, it eventually became the usual. Makeup also served as a great marker for character development and a visual portrayal of emotion. Pay attention to how many times Jules’ eye makeup changes in episode 3 for a good example of this.

So while many would never dare attempt some of the more experimental fashions Euphoria showcases, it does make us more aware that in context, these outfits and makeup looks are possible - it is just a representation of ourselves, however bold or subdued that may be. So wear an oversized sweater to a city you’ve never been to one day and a form-fitting, bubble gum pink bodycon dress the next; just chalk it up to the Euphoria effect.

Words by Michael Alvarez

Graphics by Ulyses Mendoza

The Euphoria Effect

Eu·pho·ri·a