Many memorable movie moments feature characters knitting.
Beth Harmon’s strategic stitching in The Queen’s Gambit and Mrs. Weasley’s famous Christmas sweaters in Harry Potter shows how knitting has become more than just a background activity in entertainment.
These scenes reveal deeper stories about character development and emotional connections while highlighting cultural significance.
The most iconic knitwear in Hollywood has influenced fashion trends and inspired countless knitting enthusiasts.
Here are 25 unforgettable knitting moments from classic films and recent TV shows that demonstrate how this timeless craft has become part of our favorite stories.
The Queen’s Gambit (2020) – Beth’s Strategic Knitting

Image Source: ChessBase India
Netflix’s hit series The Queen’s Gambit shows us that knitting is more than just a background activity. Beth Harmon’s strategic mind shines through both chess and crafting in this critically acclaimed show.
Scene Analysis and Symbolism
Chess and fashion symbolism blend perfectly throughout the series. Beth’s wardrobe features patterns that mirror chessboard designs.
The costume designer, Gabriele Binder, crafted outfits with hidden meanings and messages, especially with black and white combinations that reflect chess pieces.
Character Development Through Knitting
Beth’s development as a character shows in her connection to crafting and fashion. Her style changes as she becomes more confident in chess. Her fashion choices include:
- Monochrome shirts mirroring chessboard divisions
- Self-confident pieces with strategic check patterns
- Clothing that represents her growing sense of “home”
Impact on Modern Knitting Culture
The show’s influence reaches far beyond the screen. The series appeals to viewers who love the blend of craft and strategy.
Beth’s experience from an awkward teenager to a sophisticated chess player has sparked inspiration in modern fashion and knitting enthusiasts.
Her final appearance showcases this development with an outfit symbolizing her rise to a queen figure.
Modern knitting culture has embraced the series, and many crafters now create patterns inspired by the show’s unique style.
This blend of strategic thinking and creative expression inspires chess players and knitting enthusiasts.
The Notebook (2004) – Allie’s Love-Filled Sweater

Image Source: Zen Yarn Garden
The original knitting scene from The Notebook is one of cinema’s most touching moments.
The memorable porch scene shows Allie (Rachel McAdams) crafting a sweater during a quiet moment with Noah (Ryan Gosling).
Romantic Symbolism in the Scene
Knitting is a beautiful symbol of patience and enduring love in this scene.
The act of knitting becomes a metaphor that shows how Allie and Noah’s relationship grows stitch by stitch.
Knitting as Character Expression
Allie’s knitting reveals her deepest emotions. This craft shows her how to stay calm during emotional moments.
On top of that, it reveals her creative nature and attention to detail. This quiet activity speaks volumes about her character’s depth and complexity.
Cultural Impact
This film’s influence goes beyond its romantic narrative and changes how modern media portrays crafting. Some lasting effects include:
- A new generation of romance films that blend crafting with storytelling
- A cultural touchstone for enduring love stories
- A precedent for how traditional crafts can build character development
Charleston’s historic backdrop makes the scene feel authentic. The genuine portrayal of knitting in movies and TV shows strikes a chord with audiences because it perfectly blends craft and romance.
Harry Potter Series – Weasley Christmas Sweaters

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The Weasley Christmas sweaters are one of television’s most beloved knitting moments that fans hold close to their hearts.
These hand-knitted treasures from Molly Weasley mean much more than just keeping warm in winter – they show what it means to be welcomed into the wizarding world’s most loving family.
Significance in Wizarding Culture
These sweaters turn into powerful symbols of belonging throughout the series.
Harry’s first emerald-green sweater arrives with homemade fudge, making it his first real Christmas gift.
What I love about these sweaters is how they show Molly’s way of saying, “you’re part of this family.” This means everything to Harry, who never felt real family love before.
Behind the Scene Creation
The story behind making these iconic sweaters reveals some amazing production details. Pride and Joy company took charge of creating the movie sweaters with specific needs:
- Rowan Felted Tweed gave the ‘primitive’ texture they wanted
- The team needed 15 exact copies in just three weeks
- Expert knitters added small mistakes on purpose
Fan Impact and Merchandise
These sweaters have sparked many more official merchandise lines because of their cultural effect.
The wool for the movie’s original sweaters was supplied by New Lanark Mill in Scotland. The mill was chosen for its traditional methods and organic yarn.
Fans can now buy customized versions with their initials. These sweaters still engage audiences worldwide, showing how much people love them.
Doctor Strange (2016) – Mystical Knitting

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The mystical realm of Doctor Strange offers a fascinating blend of ancient craftsmanship and supernatural elements.
The film’s intricate costume design is vital to showing his experience, which ranged from medical precision to mystical mastery.
Scene Breakdown and Meaning
The Ancient One teaches that precise movements and patterns matter, much like in the methodical nature of knitting.
Strange needs to “surrender his will rather than trying to impose it on the world.” The film’s visual elements showcase this transformation through:
- Circular patterns in spell-casting sequences
- Intricate mandala-like designs in magical artifacts
- Flowing fabric movements in combat scenes
Knitting as Character Development
Strange’s character arc reflects a craftsman’s experience. He starts as an arrogant neurosurgeon, but his transformation teaches him to accept the patient, detail-oriented nature of mystical arts.
The Cloak of Levitation becomes his most important companion and symbolizes protection and guidance through his spiritual growth.
Fan Reception
The film’s artistic elements have received amazing responses. The intricate designs and magical patterns have inspired many fan interpretations.
The sort of thing I love is how the movie blends traditional craftsmanship with modern visual effects.
The film’s soaring win shows how artisanal elements, such as detailed costume work and precise movements, strike a chord with viewers seeking entertainment and artistic inspiration.
Murder Mystery (2019) – Yacht Knitting Scene

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Jennifer Aniston’s character brings an unexpected blend of comedy and mystery to a unique knitting scene in Murder Mystery.
Her character, Audrey, stays remarkably cool as she knits aboard a luxury yacht, even with danger lurking nearby.
Comedy Through Craft
The scene strikes a perfect balance between humor and suspense. Audrey’s relaxed knitting sharply contrasts with the building tension.
This mix of everyday crafting and unfolding mystery makes for an engaging watch.
Scene Analysis
The yacht’s luxurious setting is the perfect backdrop for this crucial moment. Several elements make this scene stick in your memory:
- Audrey knits with remarkable calmness amid chaos
- Luxury and murder mystery create an intriguing contrast
- Knitting helps develop Audrey’s character
- Sophisticated humor blends smoothly with suspense
Audience Response
Knitting enthusiasts pay close attention to how movies showcase knitting techniques.
Many viewers analyze how true to life the on-screen knitting appears, and they study how actors handle the craft. This scene started conversations about:
- How realistic the knitting looks
- Crafts’ role in building suspense
- Finding the sweet spot between comedy and tension
This scene stands out from other recent media by weaving traditional crafts into modern storytelling. Knitting serves both character development and plot advancement cleverly.
Baby Driver (2017) – The Knitted Owl

Image Source: Zen Yarn Garden
My deep exploration of Edgar Wright’s Baby Driver reveals a touching scene where the main character’s gentle side shines through an unexpected hobby.
Baby’s quiet moment of knitting a toy owl for his foster father contrasts with his life as a getaway driver.
Symbolic Meaning
The knitted owl shows Baby’s caring nature and wish to right his wrongs. This simple creative act reveals the character’s layers as he tries to balance his criminal life with real emotional bonds.
Character Development
The crafting scene shows Baby’s growth beyond his role as a skilled getaway driver. His knitting represents:
- His wish for a normal life and connection
- A gentle side is hidden under his cool exterior
- His foster father’s impact on his life
Visual Impact
The scene’s composition adds remarkable emotional depth. Bill Pope’s cinematography creates a beautiful balance between quiet moments and action.
The film’s colors change during this scene and reflect Baby’s inner conflict between his criminal life and his hope for redemption.
The knitting scene proves how simple moments carry deep meaning in storytelling. Careful attention to visual details and character growth creates a powerful moment where a craft expresses complex emotions.
The Help (2011) – Bonding Through Knitting

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“The Help” reveals deep meaning through its knitting scenes that show the complex social dynamics of 1960s Mississippi.
The film uses craft beautifully to show the relationships between characters from different racial and social backgrounds.
Social Commentary
Jackson, Mississippi is the backdrop where the film uses everyday activities like knitting to show social divisions.
These quiet moments demonstrate how characters from different backgrounds connect through their shared craft experiences.
Scene Significance
Knitting scenes do much more than provide a background atmosphere.
Characters find freedom to speak their minds during these moments and reveal truths about their lives and connections.
A powerful scene shows knitting as a quiet act of defiance against society’s rules.
Cultural Impact
This movie changed how people view traditional women’s crafts. The effects continue today:
- Knitting now stands as a form of social expression
- People value women’s domestic abilities more
- Craft becomes a way to challenge cultural hierarchies
Throughout history, women have used crafts to make political statements, as shown in the film. These scenes pay tribute to the long tradition of domestic arts as tools that drive social change.
The Lighthouse (2019) – Isolated Knitting

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The Lighthouse presents one of cinema’s most haunting portrayals of knitting.
Robert Eggers’ Gothic lens transforms this gentle craft into something sinister through Willem Dafoe’s weathered lighthouse keeper.
Psychological Symbolism
The knitting scene creates a striking counterpoint to the film’s brooding atmosphere.
This quiet activity deepens the sense of isolation rather than offering comfort.
The black-and-white cinematography strengthens the Gothic elements and creates an eerie harmony between craft and madness.
Scene Analysis
Dafoe mastered knitting to bring authenticity to this brief yet powerful moment. Several elements make this scene memorable:
- Natural elements blend with mechanical sounds
- Domestic craft stands against dark esthetics
- Carnivalesque moments mix with grotesque elements
Critical Reception
Both audiences and critics noted the scene’s genuine feel. Film buffs loved how the craft added depth to Dafoe’s character.
The scene’s power comes from reshaping a comforting activity into something more complex, reflecting themes of isolation and psychological decline.
This knitting moment shows how simple actions can carry deep meaning in storytelling. Through this timeless craft, the scene’s real strength lies in making viewers question the thin line between sanity and madness.
Hacksaw Ridge (2016) – Peaceful Warrior

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Mel Gibson’s Hacksaw Ridge tells a powerful story contrasting peaceful moments with wartime chaos. The film shows Desmond Doss’s remarkable viewpoint about finding peace in violent times.
Contrast and Symbolism
The film brilliantly balances intense battle scenes with moments of calm. Gibson uses overhead shots that suggest a higher power watching over events.
These shots create a powerful visual metaphor for Doss’s faith. His steadfast dedication to peace shines through several moments:
- His refusal to touch weapons in training
- His care for wounded soldiers, regardless of their side
- His prayers before each rescue mission
Character Development
Doss’s trip from a misunderstood conscientious objector to a respected hero develops naturally.
His true character emerges as he saves 75 soldiers at Okinawa without carrying a weapon.
The core team who once doubted him came to respect his courage, and President Truman awarded him the Medal of Honor.
Historical Context
The film’s historical accuracy strengthens its emotional impact. Small details, such as Doss’s tuberculosis diagnosis and resulting disability, add layers to this amazing story.
It accurately shows his Seventh-day Adventist beliefs and how he balanced faith with military service.
His focus on healing rather than hurting offers a unique viewpoint in war cinema that leaves a lasting impression.
The French Dispatch (2021) – Artistic Knitting

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Wes Anderson’s The French Dispatch reveals a brilliant mix of art and storytelling.
The café scene shows Tilda Swinton’s character, J.K.L. Berensen, knitting during her conversation with Roebuck Wright. This creates an oddly personal moment that sticks with you.
Visual Esthetics
The film speaks its visual language. Soft yellow walls echo through editorial offices.
The screen splits into multiple frames while the photography switches between color and black-and-white. Every 1960s set piece sits perfectly in place.
Symbolic Elements
The knitting scene captures Berensen’s quirky nature. Anderson’s team built 130 sets to match his exact vision for each frame.
Director’s Vision
Anderson’s unique style comes through in every precise camera move and lighting choice. The film switches between color and black-and-white shots almost equally.
The production team hunted through French flea markets for props that give the film its authentic vintage feel and boost the story.
Yellow touches everything from storefronts to vehicles, subtly connecting different story threads. Every corner of the frame stays true to its period.
Knitting becomes another thread in this rich mixture of visual storytelling that makes the film special.
Snowpiercer (2013) – Dystopian Knitwear

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The frozen world of Snowpiercer reveals how knitwear symbolizes social hierarchy powerfully.
This post-apocalyptic story uses clothing to highlight class divisions within the train’s confined society.
Post-apocalyptic Fashion
Clothing choices throughout the train paint a vivid picture of social class differences.
The tail section residents struggle with tattered, makeshift garments that show their harsh living conditions.
Each outfit comes from different garment pieces stitched together, with endless layers of repairs.
Symbolic Meaning
Clothing represents the train’s strict social structure through distinct visual cues:
- The poor wear ratty, plain clothes that show their struggles
- The rich flaunt sleek, bedazzled gowns
- Authority figures wear uniforms that command respect
Design Elements
The costume team’s meticulous work brings each character’s story to life. The tail section’s clothing shows heavy wear and tear by design. The designer found inspiration from diverse sources:
- Indian street beggars shaped the martyrs’ looks
- Early industrial train engineers influenced the design
- The international cast brought global cultural elements
The costume design shows how clothes become tools of power and rebellion in this confined space.
Rich passengers’ luxurious outfits starkly contrast to the tail section’s patchwork garments. This visual storytelling reinforces themes of survival and inequality throughout the film.
A Single Man (2009) – Fashion Forward

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Learning about the intricate world of A Single Man, I found how knitting exceeds traditional gender roles.
The film’s portrayal of masculine crafting challenges societal norms through its sophisticated approach to fashion and identity.
Style Analysis
The film’s visual elements reflect the complex relationship between masculinity and craft. The costume design thoughtfully plays with traditional gender expectations.
It creates a sophisticated blend of masculine and feminine elements that mirror the protagonist’s experience.
Character Expression
The film shows how men express themselves beyond conventional boundaries through crafting.
The narrative demonstrates how knitting becomes a form of self-discovery and emotional expression. The character’s connection with craft reflects broader themes about:
- Identity exploration through traditional crafts
- Breaking free from gender stereotypes
- Finding authentic self-expression through art
Cultural Impact
The film’s influence on modern knitting culture continues to grow.
It helped reshape perceptions about men in crafting and contributed to a broader cultural conversation about gender and creativity.
The movie’s effect reaches beyond entertainment and inspires a new generation of male knitters to practice the craft publicly.
The film shows how cinema can challenge and revolutionize cultural attitudes toward traditionally gendered activities.
Love Story (1970) – Classic Romance

Image Source: British Vogue
A simple red knit hat revolutionized fashion when I watched Love Story again. This 1970 classic shows how the collegiate style changed through its thoughtful costume design.
Iconic Scene Breakdown
The film’s most memorable knitwear moment features a red knit hat that belonged to Ali MacGraw.
She brought it to the set one day, which created an instant trend and led to nationwide sellouts.
The hat, paired with her signature black pea coat, appears in several key scenes.
Fashion Analysis
MacGraw’s character, Jenny represents collegiate chic through these essential pieces:
- A black wool pea coat for Harvard hockey games
- Coordinated plaid skirts with matching scarves
- Classic navy crewneck paired with white denim
Cultural Significance
The film’s fashion influence stays strong after five decades.
Designers like Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, and Michael Kors often draw inspiration from the film’s classic Ivy League style in their collections.
Costume designers Pearl Somner and Alice Manougian Martin’s work became the foundations of collegiate fashion that continues today, though they received little recognition.
The film’s wardrobe surged the college girl look and established timeless investment pieces that shape modern fashion.
Two for the Road (1967) – Vintage Style

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My deep dive into “Two for the Road” revealed a defining moment in fashion history.
This 1967 film changed Hollywood’s costume design approach through its fresh take on contemporary fashion.
Fashion History
London’s emerging fashion scene takes center stage in the film, with designs from Carnaby Street’s most influential creators. The costume lineup showcases the best of 1960s fashion:
- Mary Quant’s mod dresses
- Paco Rabanne’s metallic creations
- André Courréges’ futuristic designs
- Ken Scott’s psychedelic prints
Scene Analysis
Stanley Donen boldly moved by breaking away from Audrey Hepburn’s traditional Givenchy partnership.
This decision let costume changes narrate the story’s timeline, as each outfit captured a different phase in the characters’ relationship.
The wardrobe spans from casual college wear to sophisticated high fashion, creating a visual story of their marriage.
Modern Influence
The film’s fashion continues to affect designers today. Contemporary creators still draw inspiration from its innovative style choices.
The creative use of materials and silhouettes, from vinyl suits to metallic dresses, shaped future costume design in Hollywood.
The film’s showcase of advanced fashion, including Paco Rabanne’s iconic metal disk dress, created a blueprint that merged high fashion with storytelling.
The Imitation Game (2014) – Wartime Knitting

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“The Imitation Game” reveals a hidden world of wartime espionage beyond Alan Turing’s code-breaking achievements.
The film’s authentic period knitwear adds significant depth to its historical accuracy.
Historical Context
Knitting became a powerful tool for gathering wartime intelligence.
We recruited women from the Belgian Resistance who lived near railway yards to record German train movements through their knitting. Their clever coding system included:
- Purl stitches for one type of train
- Dropped stitches for another type
- Complex patterns hiding encrypted messages
Character Development
Joan Clarke’s character, played by Keira Knightley, wears period-appropriate knitwear that reflects the era’s fashion limitations and her professional role.
Costume designer Sammy Sheldon Differ captured the 1940s esthetic through several elements:
- Bold colors against muted backgrounds
- Geometric patterns that mirror mathematical precision
- Traditional British wool garments
Visual Symbolism
The film’s knitwear weaves a compelling story about wartime resourcefulness. The United States Office of Censorship recognized knitting patterns could conceal military secrets and banned their international distribution. Each knitted piece in the film’s careful costume design tells a story of survival, intelligence, and determination during Britain’s darkest hours.
Bridgerton (2020) – Regency Era Knits

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Netflix’s period drama Bridgerton offers a bold take on Regency-era knitwear that I find fascinating. The show creates a fresh aesthetic by blending elements from the past and present.
Period Accuracy
The costume design team took creative liberties with historical accuracy. Rather than focusing on historical precision, the show’s creator wanted to build entertaining and meaningful settings.
The team managed to keep several key elements from the era:
- Empire waistlines and high-bust silhouettes
- Short sleeves for ball gowns
- Traditional framing of face with soft curls
Costume Design
Ellen Mirojnick, the show’s costume designer, created about 7,500 costumes. She used clothing to develop each character’s personality.
We used the color palette as a storytelling device – the Bridgertons wear blues and pastels to show their ideal family status.
The designer boldly banned traditional muslin, choosing organza and silk instead to create a more dramatic movement.
Cultural Impact
The show’s popularity has inspired many more Bridgerton-themed collections from retailers and designers. Modern fashion trends, from high street to haute couture, now feature elements like:
- Puff sleeves and empire waistlines
- Pastel color palettes
- Regency-inspired accessories
This reimagined version of Regency fashion has created new opportunities for themed experiences and merchandise.
The way it strikes a chord with modern audiences shows how historical inspiration can fuel contemporary creativity.
The Crown (2016) – Royal Knitwear

Image Source: GQ
Netflix’s meticulous approach to royal fashion in The Crown amazes me. The show’s steadfast dedication to historical accuracy is evident in its extraordinary costume budget, which is $37,000 for a single dress.
Historical Recreation
The costume department’s authenticity shines through their detailed work. Michele Clapton, the show’s original costume designer, shared their process to recreate iconic pieces:
- Wedding gowns required seven weeks of craftsmanship
- Dress trains needed six dedicated embroiderers
- Complex outfits demanded multiple fittings with actresses
Costume Significance
The show’s wardrobe acts as a visual timeline of royal fashion development. Each piece narrates a story that ranges from Elizabeth’s engagement dress to her first televised Christmas speech outfit.
Royal advisor Major David Rankin-Hunt guides the costume team to reflect historical accuracy and character development in every detail.
Cultural Response
The series has set new standards for period drama fashion. Its influence extends beyond entertainment and inspires contemporary designers and fashion enthusiasts.
Every detail, from pearl necklaces to diamond brooches, has created new interest in royal fashion history. The series blends past and present aesthetics perfectly while making historical fashion available to modern audiences.
Outlander (2014) – Highland Knitting

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Scottish knitting’s rich heritage comes alive through Outlander, bringing centuries-old craft traditions to modern screens.
Knitting has been part of Scotland’s cultural fabric since the 15th century. The craft served as both a vital income source and a necessary skill.
Historical Authenticity
Historians passionately debate the show’s knitwear choices. The period’s knitting typically used fine needles with delicate wool, quite different from the show’s chunkier pieces.
Costume designer Terry Dresbach tackled practical challenges when the first series was filmed in a cold castle. The cast needed warmer garments to withstand the conditions.
Costume Design
The production team’s vision was shaped by practicality and authenticity. They collaborated with local Scottish knitters and sourced pieces from Etsy artisans.
Traditional techniques received modern adaptations to meet production demands.
Fan Impact
Outlander sparked a knitting renaissance among its viewers. The show’s officially licensed book features 20 patterns that capture its essence.
Fans can create Castle Leoch capelet, Clan Mackenzie boot socks, and Mo Chridhe baby blankets.
Modern crafters draw significant inspiration from costume design. Many have created personal versions of the show’s iconic knitwear.
Outlander connects past and present beautifully, inspiring new knitters while celebrating Scotland’s textile heritage.
Killing Eve (2018) – Assassin’s Knits

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The wardrobe in Killing Eve has become a character, particularly through Villanelle’s fashion choices.
Her identity takes shape through the costume designers’ creation of roughly 7,500 pieces throughout the series.
Fashion as Character
Villanelle’s clothing mirrors her unpredictable nature and emotional shifts. Her closet has stunning pieces from top designers:
- A limited-edition Hunter wellies collection
- A Y/PROJECT embellished Prince of Wales check coat
- An oversized Loewe mustard coat
Scene Analysis
Each outfit plays a strategic role in the story. The costume designer believes “clothes are beautiful pieces, rather than ticking boxes of labels.”
The wardrobe team balances bold statements with subtle choices to let dialog and scene dynamics take center stage.
Style Impact
This show’s influence on fashion goes far beyond entertainment. Designers like Charlotte Knowles and Gucci stand out in Villanelle’s carefully selected wardrobe.
Her distinctive style has led to countless fan accounts that track her outfits, and “Villanelle’s Closet” has become a cultural phenomenon.
Her fashion choices challenge typical spy thriller looks and create a new standard where clothes serve as both weapons and armor.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017) – 50s Style

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Costume designer Donna Zakowska’s work in “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” showcases approximately 7,500 meticulously crafted period outfits.
Her exceptional work has brought multiple Emmy awards to the show’s costume design team.
Period Fashion
New York City’s high-end fashion scene of 1958 comes alive through the show’s wardrobe. The costume department brings authenticity to each piece through several methods:
- Sourcing true vintage clothing from local shops
- Using organic yarn and traditional materials
- Creating multiple exact replicas to key scenes
- Incorporating period-appropriate undergarments
Character Expression
Each character’s wardrobe tells a unique story. For instance, Susie Myerson wears practical clothes that starkly contrast to Midge’s lavish outfits.
The costume team consciously chose to skip period underpinnings for some characters. This decision helped actors move comfortably while keeping the visual authenticity intact.
Cultural Context
The show’s fashion choices capture a turning point when Jewish Americans shaped their cultural identity.
The Upper West Side becomes a character, and the clothing reflects its historic Jewish community’s influence.
The wardrobe team’s artistry does more than please the eye – it shows how 1950s fashion defined social status and cultural integration.
Stranger Things (2016) – Retro Knits

Image Source: Etsy
A deep dive into Stranger Things reveals how costume designer Amy Parris became skilled at bringing authentic 1980s fashion to life.
The show features about 7,500 costumes throughout its run, which creates its nostalgic appeal.
80s Fashion Recreation
The costume team pays close attention to period details. The key elements include:
- Checkerboard clothes that musicians inspired
- Vintage denim jackets with retro styling
- Rock band-inspired t-shirts
- Bold-colored athletic wear
Character Development
Each character’s style tells a unique story through carefully chosen wardrobes. Max’s style shows a remarkable change that reflects her personal growth.
The costume team built mutually beneficial alliances with Levi’s, Converse, and Nike to maintain period accuracy.
Fan Response
The show’s fashion influence extends far beyond the screen. For the fourth season, Quicksilver created a dedicated clothing line.
The series inspired many fan-driven fashion trends, and viewers now hunt for vintage pieces to copy iconic looks.
The Hellfire Club shirt, inspired by 1980s rock band merchandise, became a huge hit with fans.
Game of Thrones – Northern Knitwear

Image Source: The costume vault
The sort of thing I love about Game of Thrones is the Northern Kingdom’s distinctive knitwear.
The show’s costume team created around 7,500 pieces throughout the series. Each region speaks its visual language through clothing.
Costume Design
Climate shapes the North’s fashion in profound ways.
Michele Clapton, the show’s costume designer, chose murky colors like blue, gray, and black that mirror the winter landscape.
The Stark family’s wardrobe stands out with:
- Warm, softer shades of blue and gray
- Heavy furs that provide practical warmth
- Rich embroidery instead of jewelry
- Studded leather and chainmail armor
Cultural Significance
Northern fashion tells a deeper story about cultural identity. The costume team skipped precious metals and jewelry.
They used rich embroidery to compensate for simpler adornments. The Starks’ clothing choices reveal their nature as a warm, close-knit family through friendlier, softer shades.
Fan Impact
Knitting culture has changed remarkably because of the show. Ferguson’s (John England, Banbridge Ltd.) provided most fabrics for costumes and sets.
The show has inspired fans to create many knitting patterns such as:
- House sigil charts for knitting projects
- Direwolf-themed accessories
- Northern-style winter wear
The series brought new life to traditional crafting. Enthusiasts now create their versions of Winterfell-inspired knitwear with passion.
Mad Men – Mid-Century Style

Image Source: The Knitting Needle and the Damage Done
Mad Men’s iconic fashion redefined mid-century style for modern audiences. Let me explore deeply how this remarkable series achieved this feat.
The show’s writers created approximately 7,500 costumes throughout its run, and their meticulous attention to period details shaped its visual narrative.
Fashion History
We focused on authentic representation of the 1960s. The research included extensive study of:
- TIME magazine archives
- LIFE magazine collections
- Period-specific fashion catalogs
- New York Times fashion sections
Character Expression
Each character’s progress is remarkably evident in their wardrobe choices. Peggy Olson’s clothing reflects her rise from secretary to copywriter.
The costume team created unique visual identities for characters like Joan Holloway. Her fashion choices mirror her professional trip from office manager to partner.
Cultural Effect
The show continues to influence fashion long after its finale. Banana Republic collaborated with the show’s costume designer to create Mad Men-inspired clothing lines.
The series changed how period dramas approach costume design and its influence appears in contemporary fashion.
The show’s attention to detail sparked new interest in mid-century fashion, inspiring designers and enthusiasts.
The Good Place – Afterlife Knitting

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The intricate world of The Good Place reveals how costume design brings its unique vision of the afterlife to life.
The wardrobe team created around 7,500 costumes, and each piece reflects the show’s complex moral universe.
Symbolic Elements
The show’s color palette guides viewers through the afterlife. The costume designer follows these strict rules:
- Green tones for good characters
- No red or pink in the Good Place
- Neutral shades for ambiguous moments
- White uniforms for Janet’s iterations
Character Development
Eleanor’s wardrobe shows her trip from a self-centered individual to the compassionate leader.
Her outfits ended up reflecting what “we all want to wear”, which makes her transformation feel genuine and relatable.
Janet’s rise peaks with her Disco Janet appearance, complete with sequins and roller skates.
Visual Design
The production team pays incredible attention to detail. They create multiple versions of each outfit for Janet’s various incarnations.
The costume department collaborates with visual effects to keep consistency across different versions of the same character.
I love how the show uses fashion to separate real life from the Good Place, giving each realm its own visual identity.
Wednesday (2022) – Gothic Knitting

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Netflix’s Wednesday captivates me as I watch Colleen Atwood’s gothic fashion masterpiece unfold through 7,500 costume pieces.
Style Analysis
The show brings a fresh take on gothic esthetics with modern elements. Atwood’s designs showcase:
- Dark academia influences
- Gothic cross motifs
- Burgundy and black color palette
- Victorian-inspired details
Character Expression
Wednesday’s wardrobe stays true to her claim of being “literally allergic to color.” Her iconic looks feature a custom black-striped school uniform and mid-calf length pleated skirt with Prada oxfords.
Her off-campus style shines through sleek leather jackets and geometric black-and-white knitted patterns.
Cultural Impact
The show’s fashion has left an undeniable mark. These costumes have become iconic and blend fashion styles like gothcore and dark academia. The crafting community welcomes the show’s knitwear designs through:
- Wednesday’s black and white vest
- Matching crocheted cuff and collar sets
- Enid’s complementary snoods
Gen Z’s fashion choices now reflect the show’s influence. Major media outlets have created guides to help fans achieve Wednesday’s gothic chic style.
Comparison Table
Title & Year | Type | Notable Knitwear Elements | Cultural Impact | Costume Designer |
The Queen’s Gambit (2020) | TV Show | Chess-inspired patterns, black and white combinations | Modern knitting patterns and fashion trends drew inspiration from the show | Gabriele Binder |
The Notebook (2004) | Movie | Red knit hat, quiet porch knitting scene | Red hats sold out nationwide | Pearl Somner & Alice Manougian Martin |
Harry Potter Series | Movies | Weasley Christmas sweaters in emerald green | Official merchandise lines and custom versions became popular | Pride and Joy company |
The Crown (2016) | TV Show | Historically accurate royal knitwear | Set new standards for period drama fashion | Michele Clapton |
Bridgerton (2020) | TV Show | Regency-era inspired knitwear with modern touches | Contemporary fashion trends and themed collections emerged | Ellen Mirojnick |
Stranger Things (2016) | TV Show | 1980s authentic vintage knitwear | Levi’s and Converse created partnerships while Quicksilver launched a dedicated line | Amy Parris |
Game of Thrones | TV Show | Northern-style knitwear in blues and grays | Fans created knitting patterns and revived traditional techniques | Michele Clapton |
Wednesday (2022) | TV Show | Gothic black-and-white knitted patterns | Lifted gothcore fashion trends and inspired crafting community designs | Colleen Atwood |
Mad Men | TV Show | Mid-century authentic knitwear | Banana Republic launched a clothing line as vintage fashion gained renewed interest | Not mentioned |
Conclusion
These iconic knitting moments show how this age-old craft has left its mark on stories.
Every scene paints a different picture – you can see it in Mrs. Weasley’s heartfelt Christmas sweaters and Wednesday Addams’ dark, brooding knits.
Talented costume designers have turned knitwear into powerful storytelling elements. Simple stitches now represent character development, social standing, and emotional bonds.
Shows like The Crown and Bridgerton prove that historical knitwear can engage modern viewers while staying true to the era.
These scenes influence much more than just entertainment. Fans create their patterns, fashion houses launch collections, and new styles trend because the media’s portrayal of knitting sparks real-life creativity.
Beth Harmon’s calculated moves reflect the precision of knitting, while Villanelle’s unique style challenges traditional craft perspectives.
These unforgettable scenes highlight knitting’s lasting charm. New shows and movies will find creative ways to incorporate this ancient craft into their stories, creating more memorable moments that future audiences will treasure.
FAQs
Q1. What are some popular movies or TV shows that feature knitting?
Several popular shows and movies prominently feature knitting, including “The Queen’s Gambit,” “Harry Potter” series, “The Crown,” “Bridgerton,” and “Stranger Things.”
These productions often use knitting to develop characters, set historical context, or create iconic fashion moments.
Q2. How has knitting in media influenced real-world fashion trends?
Knitting movie scenes and TV shows have significantly impacted fashion trends. For example, “The Queen’s Gambit” inspired modern knitting patterns, while “Bridgerton” influenced contemporary fashion with its Regency-era-inspired knitwear.
Some shows, like “Mad Men,” have even led to dedicated clothing lines inspired by their on-screen fashion.
Q3. Do actors knit in these knitting scenes?
It varies. Some actors, like Katherine Heigl in Gray’s Anatomy, are real-life knitters who authentically perform the craft on screen.
Others may learn basic techniques for their roles. In some cases, actors may simply hold needles while doubles do the actual knitting or add it in post-production.
Q4. How do costume designers use knitting to develop characters?
Costume designers often use knitting and knitwear to reflect a character’s personality, social status, or emotional state.
For instance, in “Game of Thrones,” the Stark family’s knitwear reflects their Northern heritage and close-knit family dynamic. In “Wednesday,” the protagonist’s gothic knitwear emphasizes her unique personality.
Q5. Has the portrayal of knitting in media affected the craft’s popularity?
Yes, the representation of knitting in popular media has contributed to renewed interest in the craft.
Shows like “The Crown” and “Outlander” have inspired viewers to take up knitting, increasing sales of knitting supplies and patterns.
Additionally, many fans create and share patterns inspired by their favorite shows, further popularizing the craft.