Titled “Reunited, Okay?” the season five debut episode of “Insecure” started things off with a bang with the exclusive debut of a Telfar Shopper in a previously-unseen color. In addition to the bag, the episode was filled with multiple fashion moments, which caused a ruckus on social media.
Themed on a 10-year reunion on Stanford University’s campus, there was major push back from some Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority members who were put off by character Tiffany Dubois (Amanda Seales) wearing a cardigan detailed with a chenille A patch along with the organization’s shield. Another big moment (and laugh) came when Issa Dee (Issa Rae) and Molly Carter (Yvonne Orji) were held up and Molly was robbed of her Amina Muaddi pumps.
Costumes for the show are directed by Shiona Turini, who’s been handling the cast’s looks on the show since the baton was passed to her in season three by costume designer Ayanna James Kimani. In a recent exchange, Turini explained some of the adjustments she made for season five, reflecting shifts in the various characters’ storylines.
In the case of Molly, she’s coming off of a hard breakup and a rift with an important friend, and is in a more reflective place. In an exchange with Bazaar, Turini explained, “This season, you’ll see a shift in Molly’s wardrobe for a number of reasons. It’s still chic and elevated, but it’s quieter. She’s doing a lot of self-reflecting and internal work, and maybe clothes are not her number one priority in this moment.”
Pointing out that Issa isn’t the fashion plate that Molly is, Turini noted, “She doesn’t always get it right, and that’s completely okay. The shoe might still be a little off, the bag might not be the perfect match, because she is still exploring who she is and what she wants her clothes to say.”
That said, Issa’s famed vintage t-shirts will remain a constant with Turini citing BLK MKT Vintage in Los Angeles as a great source for her character. “She’s never going to get rid of her Converses, and she’s always going to gravitate towards her denim. It’s just going to be that with a twist,” Turini added.
And while there may be subtle shifts made to each character’s wardrobe, Turini said the show will continue to focus on highlighting Black designers. According to Turini, season five will include first time appearances by Brandon Blackwood, Kendra Duplantier, Bephies Beauty Supply and Samaria Leah. Meanwhile, Black-lead Mateo, Wales Bonner, and Brother Vellies will make repeat appearances. Notably, Lawrence Walker (Jay Ellis) wore a Fear of Good sweatshirt when he picked up Issa from the airport.
Check out some outfit details from Insecure’s episode one below.
