A previously unseen alternate design for David Corenswet’s Superman costume has been revealed, showcasing a significant departure from the final version. This discovery came from Instagram, where Maybelle Pineda, a costume graphic artist on the film, shared concept images reflecting the evolution of Superman’s new suit for the DC Universe. Notably, this alternate costume lacked the familiar red trunks, instead featuring only a bright yellow belt, marking a surprising change in the character’s iconic look.
This design change highlights the creative exploration involved in shaping the Superman costume, a detail that has long sparked debate among fans whenever live-action adaptations are developed.
Behind the Scenes: The Costume Design Process
In her Instagram post, Maybelle Pineda reflected on her experience working with the Superman team, expressing gratitude for the support she received despite joining
a bit late in the process
. Her main focus was
refining and supporting the already established designs of the superman suit.
This indicates her role was primarily to polish the suit’s graphic elements rather than initiate foundational changes.
The decision about the red trunks was among the hotly discussed aspects during pre-production. Superman’s director, James Gunn, notably consulted Zack Snyder—whose interpretation of Superman in the DC Extended Universe forsook the trunks for a more grounded appearance—demonstrating the significance of this choice in maintaining the character’s legacy while appealing to modern audiences.
Corenswet’s Influence on Costume Choices
Ultimately, it was actor David Corenswet who influenced Gunn’s decision to include the trunks. Corenswet favored their presence, believing that Superman should not shy away from looking a little silly to seem accessible and friendly, especially to children. He shared that Gunn had tried to justify the trunks’ function within the story but struggled to find a solid narrative reason. Corenswet himself proposed that the trunks serve as a way to make Superman appear approachable and relatable to the everyday people he protects.
This perspective underlines the importance of character relatability in superhero costume design, balancing between tradition and narrative needs.
The Role of Costume in Shaping Superman’s Image
The Superman costume remains one of the most vital components of the film, with the power to instantly evoke the character’s legacy or ignite fan backlash if poorly received. Even small details like the trunks can become iconic or polarizing. James Gunn’s careful contemplation over this detail illustrates how the costume needed to honor decades of Superman’s image while fitting the story’s tone.
Being able to see the alternate version without trunks allowed a clearer comparison, reinforcing the final choice’s effectiveness. Gunn’s version of Superman embraces comic book elements without hesitation, as demonstrated by his success in elevating unconventional characters like Polka Dot Man and Mister Terrific. The trunks, in Corenswet’s iteration, contribute to presenting a superhero who consciously wants to be seen as relatable to Metropolis’s residents.
The Broader Impact of Costume Decisions on Superman’s Portrayal
Costumes do more than clothe characters; they visually communicate a hero’s personality and values. In this case, the decision to retain the red trunks accentuates Superman’s warmth and accessibility, emphasizing a balance between superhero seriousness and comic book charm. This choice ties into Corenswet’s portrayal, often praised for making Superman feel like a true protector devoted to his city.
By honoring the trunks, James Gunn ensures that his Superman resonates with both longtime fans and new audiences, reflecting a hopeful and determined hero who is unapologetically genuine in his appearance and intentions.
