Wicked’s Elphaba Change: How a Minor Adjustment in the Musical Leads to a Major Challenge in Part Two

Warning: This article contains spoilers for Wicked. The film Wicked has emerged as a significant success story this year, reinforced by impressive box office returns over the holiday season and enthusiastic audience feedback following its initial release. With the announcement of the sequel titled Wicked: For Good and its confirmed release date, fans are eager to see if it can replicate the acclaim and commercial triumph of its predecessor. Notably, while the sequel aims to uphold the film’s reputation, it inherits a particular challenge from the original.

The characters, particularly Elphaba and Glinda, have become cultural icons through the film rendition, thanks to the outstanding performances by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. While the expanded runtime of the film allows for deeper character exploration, one notable element regarding Elphaba’s portrayal—her wardrobe—has received less focus.

Elphaba’s Stylish Evolution in Wicked

A Fashion-forward Elphaba in the Film

Throughout the film, Elphaba’s fashion choices distinctly set her apart from her peers at Shiz University—culminating in the memorable witch hat gifted by Glinda. In a real-world context, her outfits are not unattractive; rather, they clash with the conventional aesthetics of Oz. This marks a sharp contrast to the musical, where her clothing choices—a somewhat unflattering blazer paired with a simple skirt—are less stylish.

The film breathes new life into Elphaba’s wardrobe with a range of fashionable, textured black dresses complemented by a sharp blazer, as well as an appealing school uniform. Even before her full transformation into the iconic Wicked Witch, she displays a strong sense of style.

Anticipating Elphaba’s Wardrobe in Wicked Part Two

Wicked: For Good Must Elevate the Fashion Game

Elphaba taking flight at the end of Wicked

This transformation challenge becomes apparent when considering that the musical leverages Elphaba’s fashion evolution to underscore her character arc. Transitioning from a plain student to the dazzling Wicked Witch is pivotal in the narrative. Given that the film has already redefined Elphaba’s iconic look, the sequel will need to deliver something innovative and captivating to reflect that same sense of metamorphosis. With the initial Wicked costumes setting such a high standard, there is ample opportunity for success—though it will demand exceptional creativity.

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