Costumes from "Downton Abbey"
One of my favorite things about "Downton Abbey" (besides the addictive story lines and actor Dan Stevens' blue eyes) are the costumes. They've attracted attention for their opulence and historical accuracy since the "upstairs/downstairs" drama about an aristocratic family in early 20th Century England premiered there in 2010. Designer Susannah Buxton won an Emmy for her work on the show in 2011 and is nominated again this year. Starting Tuesday, Los Angeles fans of the show and its costumes can see some of them up close, as well as sartorial creations from other Emmy-nominated shows such as "Boardwalk Empire," "Game of Thrones" and "Once Upon a Time." They are featured in FIDM's new museum show, Outstanding Art of Television Costume Design.
Not nominated this year, but included in the show, are costumes from "Pan Am," "Smash," "New Girl," and "Magic City." Devotees of "Mad Men," however, will be disappointed. Not only was the show's designer Janie Bryant not nominated for an Emmy this year, the producers decided not to participate in the FIDM show this time around. Oh well, there's always next year.
"Magic City"
The 2012 Emmy winners for outstanding costumes will be announced at the Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards on Sept. 15, 2012.
"The Outstanding Art of Television Costume Design" runs through Oct. 20, 2012 at the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising in the South Park area of downtown.
"Once Upon a Time," left, and "Boardwalk Empire"
All photos by Judy Graeme. Click any picture to view larger