In the upcoming movie Materialists, costume designer Katina Danabassis had the challenge of dressing a woman whose job is all about love. The film is directed by Celine Song, who previously made the hit movie Past Lives. But this time, the main character is very different.
Unlike Nora from Past Lives, who didn’t care much about fashion, the new character Lucy (played by Dakota Johnson) cares a lot about what she wears. As a professional matchmaker, she knows that how you look plays a big role in attracting others, and she dresses accordingly.
However, Lucy’s outfits never feel over-the-top or fake. Danabassis said she was inspired by 1990s minimalism, especially the classy style of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, with a hint of French fashion. She wanted Lucy’s wardrobe to feel natural and effortless, without taking attention away from the story. “If the clothes feel too flashy, it becomes distracting,”.
Even though the movie hasn’t come out yet, people are already calling it the romantic film of the summer. It stars Dakota Johnson alongside Pedro Pascal and Chris Evans, creating a dreamy love triangle that has fans excited—not to mention, Dakota’s fashion in the movie is already getting a lot of buzz.
Set in New York City, Lucy’s style mixes modern fashion with the relaxed vibe of everyday city life. From paparazzi photos and the movie trailer, we’ve already seen some of her chic outfits, including clothes from brands like Nili Lotan, Dôen, and Gucci.
If you’re looking to bring a little New York romance into your own spring wardrobe, take some inspiration from Dakota’s looks in Materialists—elegant, simple, and full of charm.
A Closer Look at Dakota Johnson’s Outfits in Materialists
The Strapless Blue Dress
One of the most eye-catching looks in the movie is a strapless blue dress by Proenza Schouler. You can spot it on the movie’s posters and in a scene with Dakota Johnson. The dress has a beautiful draped shape, is made from crepe fabric, and has a bow at the back. It’s a perfect outfit for a wedding guest.
To complete the look, she wears silver knot heels from Bottega Veneta and a round silver necklace, adding just the right amount of sparkle.
The Floral Blouse and Jeans
Dakota also wears a lovely spring outfit that includes a floral blouse, jeans, and heeled sandals. Her floral button-up shirt from the brand Dôen is no longer available, but her straight-leg jeans by Nili Lotan can still be found.
The Pinstripe Skirt Suit and Knee-High Boots
Nothing says “city girl” like a pinstripe suit. In one scene, Lucy skips the usual trousers and wears a mini skirt instead. She pairs it with an oversized blazer, an ivory blouse, and stylish knee-high boots from Paris Texas.
Touches of Silver
Lucy wears a lot of silver jewelry throughout the film—like silver heels, chokers, rings, and heart-shaped accessories. It’s not just about fashion—it also symbolizes the social gap between her and the men in her life.
Costume designer Danabassis explained, “Celine [the director] told me this is a silver movie. Lucy is a silver girl. But Harry, one of the male characters, is a gold guy. The gold ring she sees represents that he’s from a different world—higher up—and she’s trying to fit into that.”
Billowy Button-Up Shirts
Loose, comfy button-up shirts are a rom-com staple, and Lucy wears them often. She wears an oversized blue striped shirt after spending the night at Harry’s place, and later a white one with worn jeans during a road trip with John.
“These are everyday basics,” Danabassis says. “They’re simple, soft cotton shirts that everyone owns, and they just look great. We didn’t try to reinvent fashion—we just played around with classic styles.”
Romantic Floral Dress
There’s a dreamy floral dress Lucy wears that was meant for a romantic trip to Iceland with Harry. Even though the trip doesn’t happen, she still gets a chance to wear it.
The buttercream ruffled floral gown shows a different, softer side of her personality.
Danabassis explains: “When Lucy wears florals, it shows she’s tapping into her emotional side. With Harry, things are practical and serious, but with John, it’s more about feelings and love. One man represents the mind, the other the heart.”
