The Yellowstone Official Podcast: Episode Summary
Title: Cowboy Couture with Costume Designer Johnetta Boone
Release Date: January 23, 2023
Hosts: Jefferson White ("Jimmy") and Jen Landon ("Teeter")
Guest: Janetta Boone, Costume Designer for Yellowstone
Produced by: iHeartPodcasts and Paramount Network
Introduction
In this episode of The Yellowstone Official Podcast, hosts Jefferson White and Jen Landon delve into the intricate world of costume design on the hit series Yellowstone. Featuring a special interview with Janetta Boone, the esteemed costume designer behind the show's distinctive and trend-setting wardrobe, listeners are granted exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into how the characters' iconic looks are crafted.
Behind the Scenes with Janetta Boone
Jefferson White opens the discussion by highlighting the pivotal role of costume design in shaping the visual narrative of Yellowstone. He states, “[Janetta Boone’s] vision has an impact well beyond the screen” (00:08), emphasizing how the show's style has cascaded into global fashion trends.
Janetta Boone expresses her enthusiasm, saying, “I love my job. I do. I'm so passionate about what it is that I do” (16:35). Her passion is evident as she meticulously discusses the creative process behind each costume.
The Creative Process: From Script to Screen
The conversation delves into how costumes are conceptualized and brought to life based on the script. Jill Martin, a guest from the Today show, inquires about the initial stages of costume selection. Boone explains, “I start reading the scripts... and then I'll start to build or pull from the closets that already exist for the characters” (02:26).
She elaborates on how writer Taylor Sheridan often provides descriptive cues in the scripts, guiding the initial wardrobe choices. For instance, Sheridan might specify that John Dutton wears a suit, or Casey dons a sport coat, which Boone uses as a foundation to build each character’s unique style.
Character-Specific Costumes
Beth Dutton’s Wedding Dress:
A significant focus is placed on Beth's wedding attire. Boone explains the careful selection of colors and materials:
“We wanted to do gold because it's opulent, it speaks. It's regal” (06:47). The choice of gold complements Beth’s golden hair, enhancing her regal presence. Additionally, the coat chosen for her character blends richness without being overly bright, aligning with her complex emotional journey.
Rip Wheeler’s Wardrobe:
Discussing Rip’s typically all-black attire, Boone reveals the nuanced variations in his clothing:
“He has six different black shirts, and I've dyed them all different colors of undertones” (10:36). This subtle differentiation adds depth to Rip’s character, reflecting his emotional states and relationships, particularly his warmth towards Beth, achieved through warmer black tones with brown or deep forest green undertones (10:52).
Collaboration with Actors
The episode highlights the collaborative relationship between Boone and the actors, especially with Kevin Costner, who plays John Dutton. Boone shares, “Taylor has really provided me with an incredible license to do” (13:47), indicating the trust placed in her creative vision. She discusses presenting multiple options to Costner, who often selects the pieces that best represent his character’s evolution, such as opting for navy hats that complement JD’s attire.
The Yellowstone Costume Closet
Boone provides an intriguing look into the vast and organized wardrobe inventory:
“The costume house for Yellowstone is actually two buildings now...everything is logged and cataloged per character” (15:30). This extensive collection ensures that every costume, including those for flashbacks, is preserved and readily available, maintaining continuity and authenticity across seasons.
Community Engagement and Real-Life Inspiration
Beyond the set, Boone engages with the Montana community to ensure authenticity in her designs. She often consults with local sheriff departments and interacts with everyday Montanans, which not only aids in accurate uniform replication but also fosters a deeper connection between the series and its setting. This community involvement enriches the show's realism and Boone’s personal fulfillment:
“I want to invite them into our world...they're so welcoming and appreciative” (16:35).
Impact and Legacy of Yellowstone’s Fashion
The episode underscores the global influence of Yellowstone’s wardrobe, noting how specific pieces, like Lindsey Thornburgh’s blue cloak, have become iconic and widely sought after. Boone recounts the spontaneous decision to use the cloak due to a temperature drop during filming, which later became a fan favorite:
“It's going to be one of those coats that everyone's going to want to wear because the color is fantastic” (08:30). This serendipitous choice exemplifies how practical on-set decisions can lead to significant fashion trends.
Janetta Boone’s Passion and Dedication
Closing the conversation, Boone reflects on her dedication to her craft and the joy it brings her:
“My research is the people that I'm engaging with in the community...it just adds more to why I love my job so much” (16:35). Her commitment ensures that Yellowstone maintains its high standard of visual storytelling, contributing to the show’s enduring success.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with hosts Jefferson White and Jen Landon expressing their gratitude to Jill Martin and Janetta Boone for their invaluable contributions. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to The Yellowstone Official Podcast on various platforms to stay updated with future episodes and behind-the-scenes content.
Notable Quotes:
- Jefferson White: “Janetta's vision has an impact well beyond the screen.” (00:08)
- Janetta Boone: “I love my job. I do. I'm so passionate about what it is that I do.” (16:35)
- Boone on Rip’s Wardrobe: “He has six different black shirts, and I've dyed them all different colors of undertones.” (10:36)
- Boone on Community Engagement: “I want to invite them into our world...they're so welcoming and appreciative.” (16:35)
Timestamp Key:
- 00:08 – Introduction by Jefferson White
- 02:26 – Boone discusses the initial script reading
- 06:47 – Discussion on Beth’s wedding dress
- 08:30 – The story behind Lindsey Thornburgh’s blue cloak
- 10:36 – Rip Wheeler’s nuanced wardrobe
- 10:52 – Rip’s attire reflecting his relationship with Beth
- 13:47 – Collaboration with Kevin Costner
- 15:30 – The Yellowstone costume closet
- 16:35 – Boone’s passion and community engagement
This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and creative processes shared during the podcast episode, offering both fan and new listeners a thorough understanding of the pivotal role costume design plays in the Yellowstone universe.