The Magic of Style: Costume Metaphors in Practical Magic

Practical Magic (1998)— my favorite movie— is a fantasy romantic comedy that uses wardrobe to convey themes of magic, witchcraft, sisterhood, and self-acceptance. In the film, the costumes worn by the main characters— sisters Sally Owens and Gillian Owens, and Aunts Jet and Francis— reflect their personalities, struggles, and magical abilities. Sally, the more "practical" and reserved sister, wears more conservative clothing, representing her cautious and guarded nature. Her clothing choices reflect her desire to conform to societal norms and suppress her magical abilities, as she tries to lead a "normal" life. In the beginning, Sally is seen wearing plain and modest clothing, such as long skirts, cardigans, and muted colors. These outfits reflect her cautious and reserved nature, and her attempts to conform to traditional values and hide her powerful gifts. As the story progresses, Sally's wardrobe transforms, becoming more expressive and reflective of her true self, as she embraces her magical heritage and falls in love.

Sally starts wearing more colorful and bohemian clothing, such as flowing dresses, scarves, and bold accessories. These outfits show her journey towards self-acceptance and self-expression, as she embraces her power and lets go of her inhibitions.

Gillian, on the other hand, is the more free-spirited and impulsive sister. Gillian relishes her magical and physical gifts, flaunting both proudly. She wears sexy and provocative outfits, like tight dresses, short skirts, plunging necklines, and bold makeup. Her wardrobe symbolizes her rebellious and carefree nature and her struggles with relationships and stability. Gillian's clothing choices highlight her desire for freedom and independence but also serve as a metaphor for the consequences of her impulsive actions. As Gillian faces turmoil in the film, her wardrobe reflects her deteriorating state of mind.

She is later seen wearing more disheveled and distressed clothing with messy hair and smudged makeup. These looks symbolize her internal struggles and emotional disintegration, as well as the consequences of her impulsive actions.

The sisters' eccentric aunts, Frances and Jet, are known for their unique and whimsical wardrobes. They wear unconventional outfits, like flowing robes, colorful layers, and eclectic accessories, reflecting their personalities and powerful magical abilities. Through their wardrobe, the Aunts communicate their unapologetic embrace of their unconventional lifestyle and refusal to conform to societal roles. Their clothing is a visual representation of their individuality and magical prowess.

Practical Magic serves as a reminder that our clothes can give us strength. The film showcases how the sisters, Sally and Gillian, and their aunts use clothing for self-expression, individuality, and empowerment. Through their unique wardrobes, they brandish their identities, express their personalities, and tap into their inner power. It serves as a reminder that our clothes can be more than just garments, but also a source of power, allowing us to convey our true selves and make a statement about our identity and individuality.