The hit HBO series features compelling fashion choices, especially through Parker Posey’s character, Victoria Ratliff, known for her stylish caftans inspired by vintage clothing.
The hit HBO series “The White Lotus” has captured the attention of audiences not only for its compelling narrative but also for the distinctive fashion choices showcased by its characters. This season, Parker Posey has become a standout with her portrayal of Victoria Ratliff, a character defined by her luxurious and comfortable resort wear.
Victoria Ratliff’s wardrobe features an array of casual, yet stylish caftans that speak to her character’s affluent Southern background. Known for seeking comfort while lounging in a lavish villa in Thailand, Ratliff occasionally indulges in pharmaceuticals to enhance her vacation experience, adding depth to her portrayal as a character navigating family tensions and embroiled in mystery. “Parker is probably one of the most collaborative actors in the cast, so we got on the phone and talked a lot about what she would wear,” costume designer Alex Bovaird revealed in an interview with Who What Wear. Bovaird specifically noted that Posey’s character is depicted as someone who stays within her comfort zone, opting for big, flowing caftans as she indulges in massages and treatments.
The stylish caftans have garnered significant attention and are credited to the partnership between Bovaird and Alabama’s Susan Dumas, a vintage clothing expert and self-described “caftan queen of Birmingham.” Bovaird explained, “We were inspired by a lady from Alabama who sells vintage clothes and caftans, and she gave me a bit of insight into her country club world and how fun the women are down there.” This collaboration has undoubtedly contributed to the character’s fashionable presence on screen, leading Dumas to mention in a recent Instagram post her gratitude towards Bovaird for the exposure. Dumas humorously remarked, “Every time she mentions me in an interview, I have to remind myself that I still have to do the dishes and laundry because I feel like I might be getting too big for my britches!!”
Dumas operates from her home in Mountain Brook, where she has established a business selling vintage clothing. Initially making her mark with an Etsy shop called “I Wish I Could Keep It All,” she now focuses on home shows and has developed a strong social media presence through her Instagram and Facebook pages. Her collection includes an eclectic mix of items ranging from sexy halter dresses to vintage accessories, and she has a particular fondness for clothing from the 1960s and 1970s. Dumas explained her passion for vintage fashion, tracing it back to her teenage years spent wearing unique pieces from her mother’s closet and her experiences in San Francisco.
The connection between Dumas and “The White Lotus” was purely serendipitous. Dumas recounted how her friend’s vintage clothing sparked interest from Alex Bovaird, who later reached out to collaborate on the series, marking a significant recognition for Dumas within the fashion industry. “That’s the craziest thing that has ever happened to me!” she expressed, highlighting the unexpected journey that led to her involvement with the show.
Viewers can expect to see more of Victoria Ratliff’s stylish ensembles in the upcoming episodes, with the season finale of “The White Lotus” airing on April 6 at 8 p.m. CT on HBO and streaming on MAX. The collaboration between a gifted costume designer and a passionate vintage clothing seller serves as a backdrop to the unfolding drama, seamlessly merging high fashion with storytelling.
Source: Noah Wire Services
