The Art of Costume Podcast

In this episode of The Costume House with Spencer Williams, we return to New York’s glittering Gilded Age for the third season of HBO’s The Gilded Age with costume designer Kasia Walicka-Maimone.

Spencer and Kasia dive into the season’s most spectacular moments, beginning with the extraordinary, yet rather gloomy, wedding of Gladys Russell and Hector, the Duke of Buckingham. They explore the evolving visual language of Bertha Russell, played with impeccable glamour by Carrie Coon, the changing seasons of Manhattan, and how they shaped the costumes; and then, of course, there is Mrs. Astor, played by Donna Murphy, whose costumes prove that sometimes a look can kill without saying a word.
From grand society weddings to icy social warfare, this conversation explores the meticulous artistry, historical detail, and sheer glamour that make The Gilded Age such a feast for costume lovers.

In this episode of The Costume House with Spencer Williams, we journey back to Westeros for a new chapter in the world of Game of Thrones. Spencer is joined by costume designer Lorna Ó Ríordáin to discuss A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms.Together, Spencer and Lorna explore the humble world of Ser Duncan the Tall, whose simple approach to knighthood is reflected in every worn and weathered detail of his costumes, while Egg embarks on a journey of disguise, transformation, and a rather complicated royal identity. They also discuss a truly memorable dance party led by Lyonel Baratheon, the many wealthy Targaryens who have no shortage of attitude, and the challenges of creating armor that has to survive the very glamorous realities of Westeros: mud, dirt, blood, and all sorts of nasty business.

In this episode of The Costume House with Spencer Williams, we’re packing our bags and heading to Italy for the fifth season of Emily in Paris with costume designer Marylin Fitoussi.

Spencer and Marylin discuss Emily’s evolution into a more sophisticated, confident version of herself, and how her costumes reflect a woman who is finally beginning to know exactly who she is. They also dive into Mindy’s unforgettable performance in a martini glass, the arrival of Minnie Driver as Princess Jane, and, of course, Spencer’s enduring love for Sylvie.

And then there is the Marcello Muratori fashion show, a spectacular celebration of Italian style that demands its own conversation. From polished tailoring and effortless glamour to bold theatrical moments, Marylin takes us through the costume design of a season that trades the Parisian streets for la dolce vita.

This week on The Art of Costume Podcast, Spencer and Elizabeth hit the road with Cameron Crowe’s beloved rock ’n’ roll classic, Almost Famous. And who better to guide us through the journey than returning guest and legendary costume designer Betsy Heimann?
Together, they dive into the musical inspirations that shaped the film, Betsy’s creative collaboration with Cameron Crowe, and the creation of one of cinema’s most iconic pieces of outerwear: Penny Lane’s unforgettable coat. They also take a closer look at the individual style of each member of Stillwater, exploring how costume helped define the band's personalities, egos, and rock ’n’ roll mythology.
From backstage passes to bell-bottoms, suede coats, and the unmistakable spirit of the 1970s, this is a conversation about music, fashion, and the costumes that made Almost Famous feel like a rock ’n’ roll memory you somehow lived yourself.

Dearest gentle reader, this week on The Costume House with Spencer Williams, we return to the glittering world of the ton for a conversation with Nic Collins, Hair & Makeup Designer on Bridgerton.
Spencer and Nic pull back the curtain on Violet Bridgerton's spectacular masquerade ball, where the hair and makeup are every bit as lavish as the gowns. Together, they explore the season's most extraordinary looks, including Queen Charlotte's elaborate caged crown, her seemingly endless armada of impeccable wigs, and the intricate hair designs created to complement the season's grand livery.
They also discuss Sophie's more understated beauty, the ways hair can quietly reveal character, and the importance of texture in creating a world this rich with detail. From towering silhouettes to the smallest curl, every choice helps tell the story of the ton.