Margot Robbie has once again captured Hollywood’s attention, this time for her role in Emerald Fennell’s highly anticipated adaptation of Wuthering Heights. While fans were thrilled to see Robbie take on a period drama, recent on-set photos of her in an elaborate wedding dress have sparked mixed reactions. Some admire the costume’s intricate details, while purists of the 1847 novel are questioning its historical accuracy and narrative fit.
A Stunning Yet Controversial Costume Choice
In the leaked images, Robbie is seen wearing a grand, highly detailed wedding dress that appears to be a modernized take on Victorian-era fashion. The gown features layers of delicate lace, an ornate bodice, and a flowing train—elements that make it visually stunning but somewhat unexpected for an adaptation of Wuthering Heights, a novel known for its bleak and gothic atmosphere rather than extravagant romance.
The costume immediately ignited discussions on social media, with fans debating whether such a lavish dress aligns with Emily Brontë’s original depiction of weddings in the novel. One user on X (formerly Twitter) commented, “It’s a dedicated wedding dress instead of a finery dress. This feels too grand for Wuthering Heights.” Others echoed similar concerns, pointing out that Brontë’s characters, particularly Catherine Earnshaw, were never described as indulging in such opulence.
Does It Fit the Story?
Those familiar with Wuthering Heights know that the novel is a tragic tale of love, revenge, and social class struggles set against the haunting backdrop of the Yorkshire moors. Unlike more traditional romantic novels of its time, it lacks the fairytale-like depictions of weddings often found in period dramas. Catherine’s marriage to Edgar Linton, for example, was portrayed as a practical decision rather than a romanticized spectacle.
Fans of the book have questioned whether the elaborate gown suggests a departure from the novel’s tone. Some worry that Fennell, known for her bold and unconventional storytelling (Promising Young Woman, Saltburn), might be taking too many creative liberties with the adaptation. However, others have defended the choice, arguing that artistic interpretations of classic literature often require reimagining certain elements to appeal to modern audiences.
A Modern Take on a Classic?
Despite the backlash, some fans appreciate the fresh approach. Many are excited to see how Fennell will bring Wuthering Heights to life, with some speculating that the extravagant costume could signify a thematic twist in the adaptation rather than an attempt at strict historical accuracy.
Fashion historians have also weighed in, noting that while the wedding dress may not be entirely in line with 19th-century customs, period dramas frequently take liberties with wardrobe designs to enhance visual storytelling. Similar controversies have surrounded other literary adaptations, such as Greta Gerwig’s Little Women and Netflix’s Bridgerton, both of which blended historical aesthetics with modern sensibilities.
Final Thoughts
As Wuthering Heights fans eagerly await more details about the film, the debate over Margot Robbie’s wedding dress highlights the passionate relationship between literature lovers and on-screen adaptations. Whether the costume is a creative reinvention or an unnecessary departure from the novel, one thing is clear—Emerald Fennell’s take on Wuthering Heights is already making waves, and audiences will be watching closely to see how this classic love story unfolds on the big screen.
