Costume designer Lyn Paolo, known for her work on shows like “E.R.” and “Presidio Med,” initially felt hesitant about taking on another medical drama. However, when she read the scripts for “The Pitt” by former “E.R.” colleagues John Wells and Noah Wyle, she was captivated by the brilliance of the story and the passion of the team behind it.
“The Pitt,” a series on HBO Max, unfolds over the course of a 15-hour shift at Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center. Paolo faced the challenge of creating costumes that looked and felt authentic to the setting. Dr. Michael Robbie, played by Noah Wyle, was described by Paolo as “downtrodden and worn out,” with his wardrobe reflecting his character’s fatigue.
Throughout the season, Paolo meticulously aged the costumes of the characters, showcasing the toll of the demanding work environment. Shoes played a significant role in the detail of “The Pitt,” with each principal character having their own distinct footwear that evolved over the course of the shift.
In contrast to the gritty realism of “The Pitt,” Paolo also delved into intricate costume design for Netflix’s “The Residence.” Set in the White House, the series follows Uzo Aduba’s character, Cordelia Cupp, as she investigates a murder within the presidential residence. With limited color options due to the set design, Paolo carefully selected fabrics to ensure Aduba’s character stood out against the backdrop.
Drawing inspiration from classic detective stories and iconic figures like Sherlock Holmes and Katherine Hepburn, Paolo crafted Cordelia’s signature look with a 1930s-style hunting jacket and tailored pants. Aduba embraced the ensemble, embodying Cordelia’s quirky personality with style.
For the background characters in “The Residence,” Paolo created a distinct feeling for each group, manufacturing metallic gowns for the women and incorporating subtle visual cues for the men in tuxedos. The goal was to ensure Cordelia stood out amidst the ensemble cast, with each character contributing to the overall ambiance of the White House setting.
Paolo’s attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of each character through costume design shines through in both “The Pitt” and “The Residence.” By infusing authenticity and personality into every outfit, she elevates the storytelling and brings the characters to life on screen.
