Academy Award winning costume designer Jenny Beavan is known for her work on some of the most iconic films of the past few decades, such as A Room with a View and The King’s Speech. The 11-time Academy Award nominee received her second win for Mad Max: Fury Road in 2016.
Born in London in 1950, Jenny Beavan began her career in the world of costume design through theatre, later transitioning to film where she found long-term collaboration with Merchant Ivory Productions. Her early work with them, particularly on period dramas, helped cement her reputation for meticulous detail and historical authenticity. Beavan studied at the Central School of Art and Design and developed her skills on BBC television productions before entering the film industry.
Known for her versatility, she has designed costumes across genres—from period epics to dystopian thrillers—always bringing a deep understanding of character and narrative to her creations. She has worked with directors such as James Ivory, George Miller, and Robert Zemeckis, consistently earning praise for her creative vision and craftsmanship. Beavan is also known for her unpretentious approach to awards ceremonies, often walking red carpets in her own distinctive style, making her both a celebrated artist and a beloved industry figure.
For Cruella, Beavan took inspiration from London’s punk rock movement of the 1970s, creating looks that were both rebellious and glamorous. The film’s costumes helped bring to life the world of Cruella De Ville, as played by Emma Stone in the feature film adaptation of Dodie Smith’s 1956 novel, The Hundred and One Dalmatians.
Beavan’s imaginative silhouettes and play with colours was praised by critics. In addition to her Oscar, Beavan has also won four BAFTAs and a Saturn Award, among many others.
Congratulations to Jenny Beavan for her latest Oscar win, and her outstanding contribution to costume design throughout her inspiring career.