Belly of the Beast

Set in 1883 off the coast of New England, Belly of the Beast tells the story of a researcher obsessed with proving the existence of mermaids, and his increasingly complicated relationship with his apprentice, Suzanne. Combining elements of romance, suspense, and psychological horror, the film reveals disturbing truths lurking beneath the surface. In my costume design, I aim to reflect each character's emotional arc through strategic use of color, fabric, and silhouette. Suzanne is dressed in soft, lightweight fabrics—linens and cottons—in light tones and warm muted neutrals, with accents of pink and blue reminiscent of a coastal sunrise. These choices maintain her sense of innocence and inner strength, even as she’s manipulated into sacrificing her agency. In contrast, Howard wears darker neutrals and heavier textiles—wool and velvet—foreshadowing his sinister intentions and emphasizing his imposing presence. Together, their looks evoke the stark contrast between a calm morning at sea and the treacherous depths beneath the waves.