Stephanie Collie, ‘Peaky Blinders’ Costume Designer, Dies at 60

As I reflect upon the life and career of Stephanie Collie, I am left in awe of her remarkable journey and indelible impact on the world of film and television. Her talent was not just in creating stunning costumes, but in crafting a visual language that transcended the screen, shaping an era with her unique style.


Costume designer Stephanie Collie, who worked on popular films and TV series like “Peaky Blinders,” passed away from cancer on October 26th, at St Christopher’s Hospice in London.

Throughout her professional journey, Collie has collaborated with a stellar lineup of actors such as Michael Caine, Henry Cavill, Jessica Chastain, Daniel Craig, Penélope Cruz, Morgan Freeman, Samuel L. Jackson, Cillian Murphy, Gary Oldman, Ryan Reynolds, and Michelle Williams.

Collie kick-started her professional journey in the sewing department of the BBC under the guidance of costume designer Susan Coates. Through Coates’ introduction, she later joined forces with director Kenneth Branagh as a wardrobe assistant during the production of “Much Ado About Nothing.” Subsequently, Collie moved on to serve as the costume designer for the film “Peter’s Friends,” which was also helmed by Branagh.

In the year 1988, Collie’s work was showcased in Guy Ritchie’s humorous crime movie titled “Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels.

About the outfit concept for the film, Christopher Laverty stated: “During that period, it was common to find men in magazines wearing slim trousers and jersey polo shirts. Stephanie Collie originated this style, thereby offering a striking demonstration of how costume design can surpass a movie and turn into something significant. We dare say that Stephanie Collie played a crucial role in shaping an era.

Later on, Collie became renowned among the global elite of costume designers, particularly due to her work on “Peaky Blinders.” She received the prestigious Royal Television Society Award for Exceptional Costume Design.

Among the films she’s also worked on are “Fury of Man,” “Argylle,” “The Appearance of Love,” “Capital in Ruins,” “Fall of an Angel,” “The Protector’s Marksmanship” and “The Return of the Hitman’s Wife as Protector.

Director Susanna White praised Collie, stating, “Stephanie had an authentic originality in her design sensibilities – nothing she created was conventional. Her work on Woman Walks Ahead was exceptional; she delved into primary sources to authenticate the clothing for the Lakota people and Jessica Chastain, maintaining historical accuracy while giving the film a modern twist. Through her designs, Stephanie told compelling stories, yet they never drew attention to themselves – she always ensured they harmonized with the overall creative vision. Even during demanding days, she maintained her signature humor and elegance. She will be deeply missed.

Stephanie’s most recent project was the Amazon drama series “My Lady Jane.”

Cillian Murphy recollected Stephanie, remarking, “Stephanie showcased an incredible skill. It was her creativity that shaped the distinctive ‘Peaky Blinders’ style and silhouette, which is now recognized as iconic worldwide.

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2024-10-31 23:19