West Side Story (costume design)

In "West Side Story," costume design is crucial in conveying characters' personalities, social backgrounds, and the cultural setting of 1950s New York City. Costumes differentiate the rival gangs—the Jets and the Sharks—through distinct styles and colors, highlighting their identities and tensions. For example, the Jets wear casual, sporty attire, while the Sharks are often dressed in vibrant, Latin-inspired clothing. The costumes also reflect characters’ emotional states and develop the story’s themes of rivalry, love, and cultural conflict. Overall, the design enhances the visual storytelling, emphasizing character dynamics and setting with authenticity and impact.