9 Cozy Wardrobe Tips from Hallmark Christmas Movies (Plus One Must-Have Item You’ll Spot Every Time!)
Scott Wolf as Brad Morgan and Lacey Chabert as Dr. Lindsay Morgan in 2023’s ‘A Merry Scottish Christmas’.
Credit :
Hallmark Channel
As the holiday season approaches, the Hallmark Channel prepares to delight audiences with its annual "Countdown to Christmas." This celebration of festive storytelling will showcase a variety of new series and original films from October through December, immersing viewers in picturesque winter scenes and heartwarming romances. Alongside the storylines, the characters’ cozy attire plays a crucial role, an area overseen by costume designer Keith Nielsen.
Nielsen has contributed his expertise to 11 Hallmark Christmas films, including the recently released A Merry Scottish Christmas and the upcoming The Christmas Quest, both featuring Hallmark favorite Lacey Chabert. Designing the iconic red coats and other seasonal outfits is no simple task, particularly when filming takes place in the summer.
"Every year, I have to figure out how to make it look like Christmas," Nielsen explained. "It’s not just about choosing clothes; it’s about creating a winter wonderland that sells the story." He employs various techniques, from utilizing summer-friendly materials to reimagining existing wardrobe elements, showcasing his creativity in the process.
Hallmark’s Unique Wardrobe Approach
Contrary to traditional practices in film production, Hallmark lacks a centralized wardrobe warehouse for storing costumes. Nielsen noted, “Everybody thinks there is, but Hallmark doesn’t have one.” The absence of such facilities means he must continuously source clothing and select pieces wisely from his own limited storage.
“I keep basics for reuse between projects,” he stated, mentioning the challenge of managing specialized costumes that cannot easily be repurposed.
On Costumes and Creativity
Occasionally, costumes do find a second life in different films. For instance, Nielsen proudly recycled a jacket from a previous production, adding a layer of continuity to his work. “There’s a jacket in The Christmas Quest that I featured in Holiday Spectacular, which was a nice nod to the earlier film,” he said.
When designing, Nielsen embraces unique touches—what he calls "wardrobe signatures." Notably, he prioritizes tailored pieces, reflecting his belief that well-fitted clothing enhances visual appeal. “Very few people fit off the rack, and I tailor everything,” he remarked.
He also incorporates classic American brands like J.Crew and Brooks Brothers into the wardrobe, ensuring the garments remain timeless. This approach enables movies to retain their charm, even years later.
Signature Looks
Nielsen emphasizes that the quintessential Hallmark outfit consists of jeans and a cozy sweater, typically in rich jewel tones suited for winter. “Dark wash denim and pointed-toe booties are perfect for adding a festive touch,” he noted.
Interestingly, while red and green hues symbolize Christmas, Nielsen opts for diverse shades to evoke a winter atmosphere. “I love jewel tones,” he said, favoring deep purples and oxblood to convey a seasonal feel.
The Iconic Red Coat
Among the many signature elements of Hallmark Christmas movies, the red coat stands out prominently. “There’s always going to be a red coat moment,” Nielsen assured, recalling a standout piece worn by Chabert in A Merry Scottish Christmas. “It has a ‘50s aesthetic that gives it a classy look.”
Behind-the-Scenes Challenges
Despite the charm of wintery narratives, the filming process can pose challenges. Many productions occur during summer months, requiring creative solutions for costumes suitable for cold weather. "In Holiday Touchdown, filmed in Kansas City during the summer, it was unbearably hot," Nielsen recounted. “I had to use ice vests under the costumes.”
Conversely, shoots in colder climates, like Iceland during the filming of Christmas Quest, necessitate heated garments to keep cast members warm.
As Hallmark continues to captivate audiences with its holiday films, Nielsen’s innovative approach to costume design remains an integral component, bringing warmth and charm to every story.
