The 2026 Emmy Awards telecast is just a couple of weeks away on September 14th. I’m thrilled to be collaborating with phenomenal blogger (who runs the Graffiti Lux Art & More and Art Gowns blogs), costume designer extraordinaire, and Emmy voter Resa McConaghy once again. In case you missed it, check out the Emmy 2024 Costume Design post and our appreciation for the costumes of HBO’s The Penguin.
My hat’s off to Alix Friedberg, Costume Designer of Palm Royale. She has not only defined the era’s looks but also used them in a way that clearly articulates the characters.
The later 1960’s brought in a lot of freedom and rights for women via the second wave of feminism. That is definitely & defiantly reflected in Palm Royale’s fashions, which end in 1970.
Palm Royale is Vogue’s eye view of that era.
Although the influence of Carnaby Street, Mary Quant, and Betsy Johnson is evident, the thrust is that of the wealthy who have taken up residence in Palm Beach, Florida.
Collage photos taken by Resa off her TV
Here we find Halston, Yves St. Laurent, Bill Blass, and Oscar de la Renta adorning the Grande Dames with their caftans, turbans, bold prints, heavily beaded A-line attire, obvious jewelry, and big glasses.
Along with the period look and character articulation, Alix was challenged with several big song and dance numbers. This is not to be overlooked. Much time, effort, and technical knowledge go into these pieces. To be exact, it is making mini-TV productions within the larger TV production.
My fave is the video above. Absolutely fabulous. Alix’s Wardrobe Team is to be highly commended for their A+ delivery of the costumes to camera, not just here, but all throughout the production.
Here’s a slideshow of Maxine (Kristen Wiig) and some of her Palm Royale pals
All Photos in this Slideshow Courtesy Apple TV
There were also tasty bits like air travel (love the stewardess uniforms) and skiing in the Alps, and of course there are numerous crowd scenes: parties, restaurants, courthouses, and protest demonstrations. Palm Beach poolside is another wonderful sample of that moment.
To be noted are the men’s fashions. The time and place of Palm Royale allows for a colourful individualism in men’s wear. To be sure, the designer has fun taking both men’s and women’s ensembles “over the top” when the occasion calls. After all, it is a comedy/drama.
The clothes may not be as fancy as the gowns in The Gilded Age or Bridgerton, either of which are spectacularly award-worthy. However, the simpler fashions of the Palm Royale period allow for a more immediately defined character and less of a catalogue of breathtaking gowns.
Special Mention: Love Story
The Kennedy Family is America’s Camelot. We all know that. Yet, remaking such an iconic tale, or any part thereof, is a massive challenge. Done well, it becomes noteworthy. Especially when it revives a style trend in the mass markets.
Photo on the left taken by Denis Regis at the actual wedding. Photo on the right from the recreated wedding for Love Story, taken by Resa McConaghy off the TV.
In terms of costumes, I yield to the classic “American Sportswear” style of the late Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. You probably think: tracksuits, sneakers, hoodies, and T-shirts. NOT! Well, not in knowledgeable fashion minds. Do not confuse “sports wear” with “sportswear.”
From Monica Ainley via Substack:
“Sportswear is an American fashion term originally used to describe separates, but which since the 1930s has come to be applied to day and evening fashions of varying degrees of formality that demonstrate a specific relaxed approach to their design while remaining appropriate for a wide range of social occasions.”
Rudy Mance, the costume designer for Love Story, did his research and created an excellent, comparable reality. Kudos to Rudy and his Wardrobe Team! Although I am in love with the costumes of Palm Royale, I will not be surprised one bit if this takes the EMMY. It is, after all, Camelot II.
Resa’s Winning Emmy Costume Design Predictions
Contemporary Costumes for a Limited or Anthology Series or Movie – MARGO’S GOT MONEY TROUBLES
Contemporary Costumes for a Series – THE BEAST IN ME
Fantasy/Sci-Fi Costumes – FALLOUT
Period Costumes – PALM ROYALE
Thank you so much, Resa, for this fun, insightful, and entertaining post!!
The 78th Primetime Emmy Awards will air live on September 14, 2026, on NBC and stream on Peacock, hosted by Mariska Hargitay.
Thank you so much for this opportunity to write a guest post here, Ruth!
I really enjoyed doing this. Although, I do have only a 50/50 record on predicting EMMY winners.
Maybe I should get a new crystal ball?
I’m over on Art Gowns working on a post, and am hitting the hay after I comment. What a day!
I’ll be back on Glam tomorrow, and reblog, then come back here to say hi some more!
Thank you sooooo much!
༻★༺ ❀❀ 𝖃𝕺 𝖃𝕺 ❀❀ ༻★༺
Resa, it’s such an honor to have you on here sharing your expertise and passion. Thank YOU!! 🤩 You made me want to check out Palm Royale now 🏝️
My pleasure about the gift, glad you like them. The pattern of the pouch is Indonesian Batik. Btw I’m from Indonesia 🇮🇩 not Philippines 😉 Sent you an email.
XOXOXOXO
Got the mail, as you know.
I can be so …stupid … at times. SIGH!
I just love doing this post with you, Ruth!
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I am not an expert or have any knowledge when it comes to costumes. But I’m glad there are people like you who help makes movie and tv shows magic comes to life. If I ever get to make my first big Hollywood film, I’ll connect with you Resa!
Ohh, thank you Ted! Yes, please do connect! Even if you make a small film, perhaps I could offer something. Ruth knows where to find me! x
It’s exciting and educational to see these shows through your eyes and experience Resa. I haven’t seen them, nor do I have those streaming services, but now I’m tempted. 😊
Thanks Brad!
I’m thrilled you popped over to read the post!
Yes, you can take the costume off the designer, but there will just be another underneath.
Somehow you caused me to think that. Lol-TY!
The thing about streaming is that it can be expensive. I got lucky, and the TV/Internet package I got from my provider, added 3 free streaming services after the fact.
So… maybe you can find a package?
Congrats Brad! I just saw that your Beatlemania post got Fresh Pressed!
Resa, a wonderful post which now has me looking forward even more to watching the Emmy Awards next month. I always like getting your takes on what is happening in the entertainment industry. Enjoyed this prediction preview!
Yay! Thanks Bruce!
I’m sure I’ll think of you, now that I know you’ll be watching.
Ha! I have only a 50/50 success rate at predictions for costumes.
My actual predictions for best Drama, Comedy, Movie, Talk Show, etc. have an even lower success rate. Nonetheless, I watch them all, and vote my faves!
Hey there Bruce! I normally don’t watch the Emmys but Resa made me curious to watch them now and I hope her favorites would win this year!!
A fun post! It’s interesting to see your perspectives on costuming. I probably won’t watch Palm Royale or Love Story, but I did enjoy seeing the Palm Royale costumes in the video. Margo’s Got Money Troubles (which I did like) did have some unique costumes!
Thanks Merril!
Yay, you watched the video. I am smitten by Ricky Martin. Never thought much before, but wow, what a terrific song and dance man. There’s another musical piece where he and Kristen Wigg do an Astaire/Rogers type number. Brilliant! Pretty good actor, too.
“Margo’s Got Money Troubles” is in the Contemporary category. These shows are a bit harder for me. I mean… it’s todays clothes, so how did the designer use those to define a character? I think there are other shows that have absolutely NO unique costumes, that should be considered.
Anyway, I thought “Margo” cut the mustard both in the everyday articulation of personae, and the unique costumes are great.
Thank you so much for popping over and reading, Merril! It means a lot.
You’re welcome, Resa!
Yes, I understand about the costumes. It’s something one notices more in period dramas than contemporary, unless the character has some sort of quirky style.
Our theater season starts soon, so I’ll try to report on the costuming, too, for you. 😂
Thanks Merril!
Okay!
I want to hear all about the costumes. 😺
I expect a complete report! 🧐
Yay for theatre season. What plays are up this year?
You’re welcome, Resa! 😂
Too many plays to name! The first one in a couple weeks is Summer, 1976 by David Auburn.
Okay… sounds good!
What a lovely post, Resa. It is always a treat when you share your perspectives on the entertainment business with us. Thank you. Thank you as well to Ruth for hosting you today
Thank you, John!
Yeah… it’s hard to get it out of one’s bones after 30 years in the biz.
It is so fab of Ruth to do this EMMY thing with me every year. I’m hoping next year will have lots of great costumes to chat about.
🎞️X
Hello John! Thanks for stopping by and leaving such a lovely comment. It’s always a pleasure and honor to host Resa’s amazing articles!
Very “Valley of the Dolls”! A really fun post from Resa!!
Ahh, Yes, I can see why you say that Liz.
Actually, Valley of the Dolls was on TCM a few nights ago. I wanted to watch it, but it was already half way through, and N has never seen it. I’ll just have to wait until it comes on again.
I think I’ve seen it more than once. I’ve also read the book. It all felt very glamorous and sexy at the time (except for the pills, of course).
I only realized recently that the Dolls are the pills…. ??
That’s right. I didn’t know until I read the book.
Yayay!!!
Was the book better than the movie?
I’d say they were about the same.
Interesting!
OH…btw – I saw Deborah J. Brasket’s review of The Weight of “Snow and Regret” got Fresh Pressed. Congratulations!
Thank you, Resa! Deborah let me know.
WOW, Resa you excelled with this post. Love the commentary, love that you get to do this, love the clips. Felt as if I was there actually, that’s how alive this post is xxxx
Thank you Shey! I enjoyed writing it.
I always hoped to win an award, but not. I did get 2 noms though.
And it’s very neat to have somewhere to voice my expertise…LOL!
Merci beaucoup for this fabulous, touching comment! xxxxxx
Well I am giving you an award for being an amazing and amazingly talented lady xxxxx 2 noms is amazing too and i can only imagine, given your prodigious talent that the winners must have been beyond, beyond belief talented, cos to me you’re that. So glad you have somewhere to voice your expertise and I hope never stop doing it either. xxxxxx
“I’d like to thank the bloggers, producers, actors and director who made this project come true. But mostly I thank my team! No man is an island.”
LOL… thank you dear Shey!
So, finally, a new ART GOWN will post this coming weekend!
xxxxxxx
Deafening applause for you xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
… curtseying deeply….
… getting stuck… down here… looking up..
THANK YOU !!!
I should have told yah, just throw your arms wide and blow a kiss!! The hell with this curtsying stuff!!! xxxxx
Now you tell me!
Well, almost straight now! Just in time to go for a walk tomorrow! xxxxxxx
Excellent. xxxxxx
xxxxxx
Hmm.. I answered this… so it’s either lost in space.. or in Spam. This is a test comment.
Such a fabulous post , Resa and Ruth! I’ve been waiting impatiently to find out which way Resa would go and am not surprised at her picks. Well done , Resa. Thank you for all the inside information that helps us to understand what all goes into costume design and choices. My favorite fashionista has been our awesome guide these years , and thrilled us with her own designs. I will be watching the Emmy’s and this is why.
Thank you both, a magnificent post.
xoxoxoxoxo
Meece!
I thought I answered this last night?
OMG… Sorry for my tardiness!
Ahh, I’m glad you like my prediction choices. You’ve been here every year, and more. I do not know what I would do without your support, and your poetry.
I’ll email you my choices for non costume categories that I voted in. Since streaming, the volume of choices has mushroomed. I watch as much as possible, but time runs out.
Adore you to pieces, Meeces!
xoxo★~ ༺❦ 🐭🐭 ❦༻ ~★xoxo
Well, THAT was a lot of fun. I hope all your choices win. Love the “Coming Home,” video. What a fabulous post. Just perfect, Resa.
Yay!
Both your comments are here, so I’m answering both.
Thank you so much for popping over to Ruth’s and reading the article, Gi!
It means a lot! xxx ❦❦
I wrote this and it disappeared. This is a fabulous post. Loved it. The Coming Home video was so much fun. I hope that all your choices win. Love the costues. Just great, Resa. Thank you.❤️
It came back! Maybe it had to be approved, and Ruth approved it… not sure, but both your comments are here.
I love that Coming Home video a lot. Who knew Ricky Martin would become so cool. The entire production is fabulous.
I will enjoy watching the Emmys. Of course, I will have my sketch pad or some sewing to do as well. I can multitask.
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So— the party’s at The Palm Royale… See you there🍸😉🌴
Okay.. sounds cool. Meet me by the pool!
Oh, and wear a vintage Hawaiian shirt! ༻🌴༺
Since you mention vintage Hawaiian shirt, I was just appreciating this combo of costume and set design from Independence Day🍉 (Russel Case, driving RV)
https://youtu.be/7CAdUFNNlqY?si=mny-SqbuQ7z8zS5P
Now that’s a niiiiiice shirt! Thanks EF!
Hey Resa and EF!! Let’s all meet by the pool in Hawaii and I’ll have my beach dress with the lei around my neck! ALOHA!!
🥥🌴🌺🍍🌸🏝️🐬🌺🌸🏄♀️
ALOHA!!
I’ll be in a Palm Royale style caftan (white w/abstract flowers) with BIG sunglasses and a turban!
⭐️🥥🌴🌺🍍🌸🏝️🐬🌺🌸🏄♀️⭐️
“Alright alright”🏄🏽🌺
What a wonderful post! I haven’t seen Palm Royale; the costumes are a blend of fun and individualistic, which I really like! Love Story sounds like a great watch as well, and I’ll look out for Resa’s prediction that costume designer Rudy Mance has done a memorable job in his fab creations!
Thanks Ada.. for popping over here and leaving this fab comment!
The 2 seasons… 10 episodes each are fun and individualistic. It’s comedy/drama.
It’s almost old fashioned, but it’s quite smart. It’s a whodunnit that plays out over the story of a woman who wants to get into the Palm Royale circle.
The costumes, sets , song & dance bits are wonderful.
Emmy season is always a big excitement for me!
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A most delightful and detailed discussion on the costumes for these films. Resa manages to take excellent photographs of moments on her TV screen. That is tricky to do with reflections.
Hi Robbie! Yeah, I’m surprised how beautiful her photos from the TV turn out! She creates such an amazing post, I’m just happy to host it. Thanks for stopping by!
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Thanks for popping over to read this, Robbie!
Honestly… I took a lot of pics to get the few that came out half decent.
The room was made black, and I tested a lot to find the right distance and aperture opening
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Fantastic Emmy predictions and a brilliant fashion breakdown!
Thank you, Luisa!
I’m so honoured you popped over to read. xx
It was my absolute pleasure! 🌹🤗
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A wonderful and exciting venture. Great work Resa, thank you so much Ruth.
Ruth is very cool!
You are too!
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Thanks for stopping by, Holly! It’s so fun collaborating with Resa on this… well it’s mostly her amazing work. I’m honored that I got a preview of it before y’all see it, he..he..
What a spectacular showing. Now I have to watch Palm Royale. I just got Apple TV so I’ll be diving in soon! 🥰
Dive in, Debby!
It’s fun entertainment.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for popping over to read!
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What a fun post, Resa, and I love seeing the other side of you! I haven’t seen the movies yet, but I enjoyed the video. I used to sing when I was young, so I love the music and the dancing! Congrats on this fab post! ❤️🎶 xoxoxoxo
Dear Lauren,
Thank you for popping over! I know how busy you are.
And thank you for this appreciative comment!
It’s a wonderful thing that Ruth has me over at Emmy time to do a Costumes post.
AND, it’s been almost 2 years, but I finally made a new Art Gown. She posts this weekend. I feel an excitement in the air… and it’s not just the new gown.
Adore you, and keep writing! Your poetry is a life force.
XO꧁💜꧂ XO
You rock, Resa, and I can’t wait to see your new gown! I’ll make a note to watch for your post. I’m so glad Ruth featured you. Thanks for your kind words, and I can say the same about everything you do! Hugs 💖🌙✨💖 XOXO
Yay, Hugs!
💖🌙XOXO✨💖
💗🌻💗🌻xoxoxoxo
Wow…just wow!!!! Brilliant post. 🙂
Ohhhh!
Thank you Meeks! I did try, and it is wonderful of Ruth to give me the space to do it on a real Film Blog! xx
Oh. My. God. Thanks Ruth and Resa for this splendid post! I’m smitten with Palm Royale now. (I wasn’t familiar with it, but I remember Carol Burnett doing an interview mentioning something.) That is my favorite era for fashion. I have to personally disagree (playfully) on one little point — the clothes in that dance video were easily equal to anything in Bridgerton. 😀 Many thanks for including that video. I hope I can find a way to watch Palm Royale. I’d like to investigate Resa’s other picks too. Hugs to you both.
Awww, thank you Teagan!
This is a lovely comment. Yes, it is my fave era for fashion, too!
I enjoy Palm Royale because it is old fashioned entertainment …in a way… but very now as well.
“Let’s do the time warp together!” – Richard O’Brian
Hope you get to see it!
HUGS!