The much-anticipated film adaptation of Wicked has captivated audiences with its stunning visuals, and one of the most talked-about elements is its costume design. At the heart of the film's magical aesthetic is Filipino milliner Harvy Santos, whose intricate hat designs—featured prominently on characters like Glinda (Ariana Grande) and Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo)—have become iconic symbols of the film.
From Ballet to Millinery
Santos’ path to becoming a sought-after costume designer is anything but conventional. Born in the Philippines, he initially pursued a career as a ballet dancer with the Hong Kong Ballet. However, his growing fascination with costume design led him to a new direction. “I used to be a ballet dancer. All the money I earned went toward buying books on garment construction and costume design,” he shared in an interview with Universal Pictures. This self-driven education eventually took him to London, where he studied millinery at Kensington and Chelsea Colleges. His passion and hard work paid off, with his award-winning hats featured in top fashion magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
Sculpting Magic for Wicked
For Santos, millinery is more than just a craft—it’s an art form. “Millinery is like sculpture; we play with materials, experimenting with shapes,” he explained. His designs for Wicked had to be both visually captivating and symbolic of the characters they represented. Glinda’s sparkling crown and Elphaba’s more understated headwear were not just accessories—they told stories. Santos found joy in the challenge, saying, “Every day, I’m part of something bigger, contributing to an epic film." His work added depth to the magical world of Oz, helping to shape the characters in ways that felt both innovative and timeless.
A Proud Moment for Filipino Craftsmanship
Santos’ role in Wicked is a proud moment for Filipino artistry on the global stage. His success is a testament to the talent, creativity, and hard work of Filipino artists making an impact in Hollywood and beyond. As Wicked continues to break box office records, Santos’ contributions serve as a reminder of the powerful influence of Filipino craftsmanship in the world of film and fashion.
