The brooding tale of Wuthering Heights made its dramatic arrival in Sydney on Thursday, as the highly anticipated film held its red carpet premiere. Australian actress Margot Robbie, starring as Catherine Earnshaw, embraced the haunting spirit of the classic romance through a striking gown, making an unforgettable impression at this homecoming event.
Robbie, 35, wore a custom pale écru gown by Ashi Studio Couture, featuring sheer tulle off-the-shoulder sleeves and a delicately shredded, distressed tulle skirt. The gown’s bodice was crafted with the expertise of renowned corsetmaker Mr. Pearl, designed to replicate the look of an 18th-century corset and hand-painted to resemble an antique piece, enhancing the vintage gothic vibe fitting the film’s atmosphere.
Details of Robbie’s Gothic Ensemble and Supporting Cast Appearances
The actress’s jewelry added further depth to the gothic look, with a unique yellow and blackened gold diamond choker and rings by Lorraine Schwartz. She completed her attire with custom Manolo Blahnik heels, creating a cohesive and dramatic red carpet appearance.
Co-star Jacob Elordi, portraying Heathcliff opposite Robbie’s Catherine, presented a complementary visual in a sharp blue double-breasted suit. He also donned a gold tooth cap, mirroring the character’s film portrayal, which featured a small diamond accent alongside an engraved “H” on the cap for additional sparkle on the red carpet.
A Fashion Journey Across the Wuthering Heights Press Tour
The Wuthering Heights global press tour has seen Robbie and her team push fashion boundaries with looks inspired by Emily Brontë’s iconic novel. Since late January, stylist Andrew Mukamal has shaped Robbie’s appearances, echoing the dark romantic themes of the story. Mukamal also styled Robbie’s high-profile 2023 Barbie premiere outfits.
At the Los Angeles premiere on January 28, Robbie wore a black-and-red ombré Schiaparelli gown symbolizing the film’s intense passion and drama. She also wore a notable piece of jewelry: the $8.8 million Taj Mahal diamond necklace once owned by Elizabeth Taylor, gifted by Richard Burton, who famously played Heathcliff in the 1958 adaptation.
During the London premiere the previous week, Robbie’s look paid homage to the Brontë sisters, wearing a replica mourning bracelet originally made from the hair of Charlotte, Emily, and Anne Brontë. The late Emily Brontë, author of Wuthering Heights, died in 1848 at the young age of 30.
Robbie’s Victorian-inspired wardrobe continues to feature historical pieces such as corsets, vintage Vivienne Westwood garments, archival 1992 John Galliano creations, and more, frequently referencing quotes and themes from the novel itself.
Symbolism in Fashion Choices Reflecting Character Themes
Robbie’s wardrobe often nods directly to aspects of her character Catherine’s personality and key moments in the story. Her feathered Victoria Beckham outfit evoked Catherine’s wild, untamed spirit.
“tearing the pillow with her teeth,”
the actress said, referencing her character’s intense emotional nature.
Another striking look, a red snakeskin outfit by Dilara Findikoglu, alluded to the line,
“I’d rather be hugged by a snake.”
—Margot Robbie, Actress
Robbie also mentioned her evolving wardrobe strategy, explaining,
“Our outfits are going to evolve throughout the press tour to cover some of the scenes and ideas in the film,”
she told Variety during the Los Angeles press events.
Film Release and Creative Team Behind Wuthering Heights
The film, directed by Emerald Fennell and enhanced by a soundtrack from Charli XCX, is set to premiere in theaters on February 13. This adaptation brings fresh energy to Emily Brontë’s classic tale of turbulent romance, with Robbie and Elordi leading the cast.
Significance of Robbie’s Fashion Choices for the Homecoming and Press Tour
Margot Robbie’s sartorial decisions throughout the Wuthering Heights press tour demonstrate a deeply immersive approach to embodying her character, bridging historical references and modern fashion in ways that deepen audience connection to the story’s emotional core. Her attention to detail, such as incorporating period-accurate corsetry collaboration with Mr. Pearl and meaningful jewelry, underscores a commitment to authenticity and theatricality.
This red carpet appearance in Sydney marks an important moment for Robbie as an Australian native returning to showcase her work at home, further elevating the film’s reception across international premiere dates. The inventive and symbolic wardrobe selections throughout the tour have sparked considerable interest, setting a tone of anticipation for the film’s release and its portrayal of one of literature’s most enduring romances.
