At the UK premiere of Wuthering Heights in London on Thursday, Margot Robbie stood out not only for her striking gown but also for a rare piece of jewelry tied deeply to literary history: a bracelet made from Emily Brontë’s hair. This unique accessory, known as the Margot Robbie Brontë Bracelet, added a profound layer of meaning to the event.
The Story Behind the Victorian Mourning Jewelry
Mourning jewelry has a long history, dating back to the 16th century but gaining prominence during the Victorian era when pieces were often fashioned to honor deceased loved ones. These keepsakes frequently incorporated locks of hair, woven into intricate designs as lasting tributes.
In the case of the Brontë family, the bracelet Margot Robbie wore was crafted by Charlotte Brontë after the deaths of her sisters Emily and Anne—Emily passed away in December 1848, and Anne followed six months later, in May 1849.
Charlotte commissioned the delicate piece to memorialize her siblings, weaving together their hair into braided strands symbolizing eternal connection. The bracelet’s clasp is engraved gold, featuring a prominent amethyst at its center and an additional amethyst pendant dangling below. Historical records indicate Charlotte wore this bracelet daily. Today, it is preserved at the Brontë Parsonage Museum, where it remains a treasured artifact.
Margot Robbie’s Ensemble: A Blend of History and Haute Couture
Margot Robbie paired this remarkable heirloom with a dramatic outfit by Dilara Findikoglu. Her sheer silk chiffon gown included a structured corset bodice and was adorned with golden braids that traced the entire length of the dress, mirroring the braided hair motif of the bracelet.
She also accessorized with a braided choker that echoed the bracelet’s design and chose exquisite jewelry by Jessica McCormack, featuring garnet, diamond, and pearl earrings alongside a 4-carat ruby ring. Completing the look, archival Boucheron brooches from 1900 and 1920, each set with brilliant red stones, added vintage flair to the ensemble.
A Thoughtful Tribute Through Fashion and Jewelry
This choice to wear the historic Brontë bracelet during a press tour for Wuthering Heights was a carefully considered decision by Robbie and her stylist Andrew Mukamal. Incorporating the author’s story into the red carpet appearance added emotional depth and a nod to literary heritage, enhancing the connection between the film and its source material.
Beyond being visually stunning, her look sparked renewed interest in Victorian mourning customs and the significance behind such heirlooms. Through this blend of historic symbolism and contemporary fashion, Robbie paid homage to the Brontë legacy in a personal and compelling way.
The Broader Impact of the Brontë Bracelet on the Premiere’s Reception
While Robbie’s wardrobe for the Wuthering Heights tour has consistently drawn attention, the inclusion of the hair bracelet stood apart as a poignant reminder of the real lives behind the novel’s creation. This carefully curated incorporation of history enhances fans’ appreciation of the story and emphasizes the emotional weight behind the characters and setting.
As the film continues to circulate internationally, such meaningful fashion moments could inspire deeper engagement with literary history and Victorian-era traditions, encouraging audiences to explore the Brontë sisters’ lives beyond the page. The Margot Robbie Brontë Bracelet stands as an evocative symbol linking past and present through both art and remembrance.
