Netflix’s Ratched skyrocketed into popularity as a thrilling original series, based on the character Mildred Ratched from the popular novel and film, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest. Mildred Ratched and the rest of the characters certainly present dynamic traits – but they also have some stellar outfits. That’s especially true when you look at the era that the show takes palce.

The costume designer for this series certainly deserves a pat on the back, and the wardrobe of this show has definitely thrown everyone back to the beauty and elegance of the 1940s. It’s time to reflect on the best looks and costumes and rank them for their ’40s brilliance.

10 The Coat

This might be one of the most simple looks on the series, but it’s also totally stunning. The long, sweeping coat is iconic, and it was ever since fans saw Mildred Ratched wearing it by the motel water.

Lovers of this decade are all over it, but they’re also probably trying to bring it back to the 21st Century. This look is kind of timeless, and that makes it deserve a spot as one of the best outfits on the show.

9 Young & Handsome

Henry Osgood is certainly a troubled and objectively cruel character, but at least he dresses well. The tie is a classic nod to the best fashion of the 1940s, and he also deserves some recognition for the sweater vest and striped button-up.

If men still dressed like today, it’s unlikely that anyone would complain about it. He looks dashing at all times, and these are looks that society could certainly stand to bring back.

SCREENRANT VIDEO OF THE DAY

8 Sunny Day Outfits

There are a few instances where the characters aren’t wearing their uniforms or elegant dresses, so this moment was refreshing. Of course, it was also pretty classic for a throwback to 1940s ‘sunny day’ wardrobe.

See also  How to Set-Up Online Streaming on Xbox Series X/S

From the huge sun hats to the floral tops, it’s impossible not to feel the beauty of this colorful era. These looks could be great for a themed party, or, viewers coould try and just bring them back to today’s fashion.

7 Red & White Elegance

It’s time to set aside the romance that is Dolly and Edmund (and everything unsettling and creepy about it) and just appreciate the beauty of these characters. Sure, they’re both stunning, but the nurse’s red dress had every viewer floored – regardless of what decade it’s supposed to be.

Obviously, Edmund wears his casual white tee and pants, but it’s also a pretty timeless look. This outfit could exist today, but it’s also probably the best of the best when it comes to 1940s looks.

6 Suited Up

Dr. Hanover is guilty of a lot of things, but dressing poorly certainly isn’t one of them. The same could be said about the Governor. Viewers of this show are probably wishing that folks still dressed up this handsomely all the time!

From the chain to the pinstripes to the beautiful coats, there isn’t anything to hate about these elegant suits. They may not be totally likable, but at the very least, these two men clean up well, and these suits also slay far beyond the 1940s.

5 Evening Gowns

Dressing elegantly for events is definitely different in 2020 than it was in 1940, but that doesn’t mean everyone didn’t look just as beautiful. If there’s one thing the 1940s had going for it, it was bold and stunning colors.

See also  Metroid Cosplayer Shows Off Perfect Samus Lit With LEDs

These two are obviously beautiful, and the low cut evening gowns are accented perfectly with the white gloves, a clear staple in this decade’s fashion. Plus, the up-dos are unmatchable.

4 The Cape

There’s probably nothing more powerful (and terrifying) than when Mildred Ratched puts on a full suit and coat, and this dark blue outfit is no exception. From the striking contrast of the dark suit and the green gloves to the hat to the sunglasses, this whole outfit is exceptional.

Mildred Ratched is not to be underestimated, and this outfit helps prove that. Besides its striking purpose, though, it’s beautiful, and it’s safe to say she would have been a fashion icon in the 1940s.

3 Casual In The Sun

This list deserves at least one more nod to some casual wear, and it’s hard not to include this mint green top and flowy skirt that Mildred Ratched wears. Plus, all these sunhats are stunning.

Sarah Paulson is a queen, and she’s absolutely stunning, and it’s impossible not to appreciate that while watching this series. From one stellar ’40s outfit to the next, this beautiful one warrants a moment of recognition.

2 White & Fur

Lenore Osgood is a fashion queen, and that is obvious from the first moment viewers are introduced to her. With this full white outfit and fur shawl, it’s impossible not to appreciate the costume designer and the decade from which it was inspired.

It’s elegant, fierce, and stunning, and fans immediately took Lenore seriously when they saw her wearing this outfit. She has some memorable moments – and this outfit is one of them. Everyone would probably vote to bring this look back to the present.

See also  X-Men Editor Developed A Solo Beast Movie & You Can Read The Script

1 All Yellow

It’s impossible to discuss the costumes in this series without pointing at Mildred Ratched’s iconic yellow suit. It is from the first episode, and it forced viewers to take her seriously – while also painting her as elegant and determined.

Not only is it powerful, but it’s also absolutely gorgeous. It’s a great nod to the 1940s, and probably makes all fans of this show want to throw a themed party so they can dress just like Mildred.

NextOutlander: 10 Best Characters Introduced After Season 1

About The Author


Meah Peers
(631 Articles Published)

I just graduated university with Criminology & Psychology, but have a burning side passion for film! I am an avid reader, writer, and film-goer, and I love learning about movies, actors, directors, and sharing my passion and knowledge with others.
I am a List Writer for ScreenRant, and love being a part of a film community where we all share the same passions.

More From Meah Peers