Hallmark Christmas movies are a beloved holiday tradition, offering heartwarming stories and picturesque winter wonderlands. But have you ever wondered about the behind-the-scenes magic, particularly the festive wardrobes? Keith Nielsen, a seasoned costume designer with 10 Hallmark Christmas movies under his belt, reveals the secrets of creating the signature Hallmark Christmas movie style.
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Beyond the Rack: No Warehouse, Clever Repurposing, and Signature Touches
Contrary to popular belief, Hallmark doesn’t have a massive wardrobe warehouse. Nielsen constantly sources new pieces, relying on his personal storage for basics like tuxedos and jeans. However, he cleverly reuses select items, like a vintage coat featured in both The Christmas Quest and Holiday Spectacular. He also incorporates subtle “Easter eggs,” reusing similar J.Crew coats worn by Lyndsy Fonseca in different movies. Nielsen’s signature touches include impeccable tailoring and monochromatic gloves matching the jackets, adding a distinct Hallmarkian flair.
All-American Style and the Quintessential Christmas Outfit
The quintessential Hallmark Christmas movie style is rooted in classic Americana. Nielsen favors brands like J.Crew, Brooks Brothers, and Banana Republic to create timeless looks that won’t feel dated. The most iconic Hallmark outfit? Dark wash jeans paired with a rich-colored sweater, often accessorized with pointed-toe black booties – a cozy and festive ensemble perfect for a winter wonderland romance.
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Festive Colors and the Indispensable Red Coat
While Christmas colors are expected, Nielsen often opts for jewel tones like deep purple and oxblood, which evoke a wintery feel without being overly literal. However, one Christmas staple remains indispensable: the red coat. Nielsen emphasizes the importance of this statement piece, citing Lacey Chabert’s 1950s-inspired red coat in A Merry Scottish Christmas as a prime example.
From Set to Second Life: The Fate of Hallmark Costumes
With no central warehouse, the fate of the costumes after filming varies. Some pieces are displayed at the Hallmark Visitor Center, others are donated, and sometimes actors purchase their favorites. Nielsen often offers actors discounted prices on tailored pieces, acknowledging their value and practicality for future appearances.
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One Fitting, Tight Timeframes, and Weather Challenges
The fast-paced filming schedule of Hallmark movies necessitates efficiency. Nielsen conducts one comprehensive fitting with actors before filming to ensure everything is prepared. This approach avoids disruptions during the tight production timeline. Filming often takes place in challenging weather conditions, requiring creative solutions. For the summer shoot of Holiday Touchdown, ice vests, a dedicated freezer truck, and lightweight fabrics were used to combat the heat. Conversely, heated vests and thermals were essential for the Icelandic winter shoot of Christmas Quest.
The Magic Behind the Wardrobe
Nielsen’s insights reveal the meticulous planning and creative problem-solving that go into creating the iconic Hallmark Christmas movie style. From sourcing and repurposing to tailoring and battling the elements, the costume department plays a vital role in bringing the holiday magic to the screen. The result is a visual feast that contributes to the heartwarming and timeless appeal of these beloved films.
