
Episode #60
The Secrets of Thrifting Vintage Tees & Legal Clearances with Marissa Schwartz - Sterling Point
Sterling Point costume designer Marissa Schwartz reveals the thrifted secrets and Chanel dreams behind Amazon Prime's breakout summer drama. Marissa joins Voice of Costume with Catherine Baumgardner to share her creative origin story — from color-coded childhood outfits to a fashion-school detour that led her, unexpectedly, into television costume design. She opens up about the "kismet" chain of connections that landed her the Sterling Point job despite union barriers, and dives deep into building the show's heavily thrifted, 70% vintage wardrobe rooted in Muskoka nostalgia. Hear the emotional story behind the brown wool sweater that became the show's poster image, the legal hurdles of clearing vintage graphic tees for camera, and how a borrowed Chanel dress and accessories became a defining moment for her teenage lead character, Annie. Marissa also discusses the whirlwind of brand partnerships flooding in after the show's viral fashion moment, learning to trust her instincts while leading a costume department without prior relationships, and balancing motherhood with the demands of film and TV production. Plus, a heartfelt detour into the films and shows that move her and Catherine most. A must-listen for costume design lovers, thrift and vintage fashion fans, Sterling Point superfans, and anyone curious about the emotional storytelling power of costume design.

