The Greatest Showman: 7 of the best costumes in the movie
The Greatest Showman stole hearts across the globe when it hit the big screen. With its moving narrative, beautiful music and stellar cast, it tells the story of P.T. Barnum, a visionary who rose from nothing to become a huge success. Now, it has inspired the Come Alive theatre show, a circus spectacular that celebrates the movie while telling an original tale and showcasing the talents of performers across the world.
Part of what makes The Greatest Showman so dazzling is the costumes. From Barnum’s ringmaster outfit to Lettie Lutz’s dresses, each is spectacular in its own right. Here, we explore the best costumes the movie has to offer.
Barnum’s ringmaster costume
Channelling the traditional ringmaster look, this costume takes circus chic to the next level. The gold detailing on Barnum’s red waistcoat and jacket sleeves, the crispness of his white shirt and the shine of his gold-trimmed boots - every inch of the outfit reflects the success and showmanship of the character, presenting him at the pinnacle of his accomplishments.
Charity’s outfit at the beginning of ‘Tightrope’
There’s a beautiful simplicity about Charity's costume as she watches Barnum drive away from their home for his tour with Jenny Lind. Lavender and pink combine to create a classic, romantic look that reflects her steadiness and balance, which contrasts with Barnum’s risk-taking exuberance.
Anne’s purple show costume
Hand-embellished with 14,000 Swarovski crystals, Anne’s purple stretch-satin leotard gleams as she glides through the air. Reflecting the confidence of her aerial performance and enabling her to shine in a society where she is otherwise discriminated against, it stands out - even among the rich, vibrant costumes of the other performers.
Lettie Lutz’s dress in ‘This is Me’
Bold and fearless like Lettie herself has become at this point in the movie, the blue dress she dons in ‘This is Me’ is elegant yet vibrant, reflecting the growth in confidence that she experiences through her journey with the circus. The colour and material make a strong statement that offers the perfect accompaniment to her powerful song.
Caroline and Helen’s clothes
When Barnum comes home from being laid off, his children’s outfits are notable. They are simple and practical - a reflection of where the Barnums are at in their lives, struggling to pay the bills - but vibrantly coloured, suggesting the aspirations of this great showman for his family.
Barnum’s waistcoats
Not once do we see P.T. Barnum in a dull waistcoat. Whether it’s the purple one he wears at the shipping company, the teal one he wears when persuading Philip Carlyle to join his enterprise, or his gold embroidered ringmaster’s waistcoat, each is a nod to his flamboyant, daring nature and contrasts with the more sober colours seen on characters such as Mr Hallett, the theatre critic James Gordon Bennett and even Philip Carlyle.
Jenny Lind’s outfit at Buckingham Palace
When Barnum and Carlyle meet Jenny Lind at Buckingham Palace, Lind wears a stunning white dress embellished with jewels. Complementing her dazzling star quality and demonstrative of her success in Europe, it also reflects her cool detachment upon meeting Barnum and the polite disdain with which she treats him at the beginning of their conversation.
If you love the performances and costumes of The Greatest Showman, don’t miss Come Alive London. Inspired by the film and featuring the finest international circus stars, this official production is showing at the Empress Museum in Earl’s Court until 5 January 2025. Book your tickets to Come Alive! The Greatest Showman Circus Spectacular with KX Tickets today.
