Feud: Capote vs. The Swans Sheds Light on High Society's Intriguing Relationships

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ICARO Media Group
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28/01/2024 22h51

FX's new anthology series, Feud: Capote vs. The Swans, brings to life the captivating story of Truman Capote's complex relationship with the iconic socialites known as "The Swans." The series explores the fallout caused by Capote's revealing 1975 Esquire article, "La Côte Basque, 1965," which exposed the secrets of New York's elite.

Costume designer Lou Eyrich, who has collaborated with director Ryan Murphy for 24 years, highlights the importance of presentation in capturing the essence of the high society era. Eyrich emphasizes the need for perfection, with every detail carefully curated to exude wealth and glamour. From matching shoes and purses to impeccable grooming, the Swans' appearance was a vital part of their society.

The series delves into the fragile inner lives of these women, who often found themselves in relationships lacking power, with husbands who had affairs and often moved on to the next wife. The narrative focuses on their struggles to present a façade of confidence and power to the world while dealing with personal vulnerabilities.

Naomi Watts portrays Babe Paley, Capote's favorite Swan, known for her elegant and tailored looks. Watts's wardrobe features a blend of vintage and custom pieces, adhering to Babe's simple, chic and sophisticated style. Diane Lane plays Slim Keith, a California girl who preferred a less-is-more approach, favoring designers such as Oscar de la Renta and Bill Blass.

The cast of Feud: Capote vs. The Swans includes Tom Hollander as Truman Capote, Chloë Sevigny as C.Z. Guest, Calista Flockhart as Lee Radziwill, Demi Moore as Ann Woodward, and Molly Ringwald as Joanna Carson, wife of Johnny Carson. The ensemble brings these intriguing personalities to life on screen.

One of the pivotal scenes in the series is the famous Black and White Ball held at the Plaza Hotel in 1966. For this particular event, costume designer Lou Eyrich collaborated with renowned fashion designer Zac Posen. Thorough research, including sketches by Joe Eula and Ron Galella's photographs, helped recreate the atmosphere of the ball. Posen dressed luminaries like Frank Sinatra, Mia Farrow, Candice Bergen, and Andy Warhol for the show.

Posen's designs for the Black and White Ball reflect the symbolism associated with the event. For example, Babe Paley's dress features a red crimson lining, possibly representing her rebellious nature. Posen also created an opera coat that opens like swan wings, adding a touch of grandeur to her entrance. Ann Woodward's dress was made to resemble sparrow wings, further heightening the bird symbolism. Posen described the masks worn at the ball as "evil aquatic birds," capturing the enchanting yet mysterious atmosphere of the event.

Feud: Capote vs. The Swans promises to be a captivating portrayal of the intricate relationships and opulent lifestyles of these high society women, intertwined with Truman Capote's ultimate downfall. Viewers can expect a visual feast of glamorous costumes and an engaging narrative that brings to life the golden era of the Swans and their complicated connection with the acclaimed author.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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