The Costume Designer Behind ‘Wicked’ Talks History-Making Win

In a remarkable moment at the 2025 Academy Awards, Paul Tazewell made history by becoming the first Black man to win the Oscar for Best Costume Design.

Known for his visionary work on the film adaptation of Wicked, Tazewell’s win not only solidified his place as a leading figure in the world of costume design but also marked a momentous step forward in the fight for diversity and representation in the entertainment industry.

Tazewell, who had already earned critical acclaim for his contributions to theater, including his work on the Broadway smash hit Hamilton, has long been regarded as a master of his craft.

His Oscar-winning work on Wicked—the highly anticipated film based on the popular Broadway musical—was a visual spectacle, blending elements of fantasy with historical references to create costumes that were both timeless and strikingly original.

Yet, the significance of his victory goes far beyond his creative prowess.

This achievement represents a breakthrough for Black artists, particularly in a field that has often lacked diversity at the highest levels.

In an exclusive interview following the awards, Tazewell reflected on the impact of his historic win and the journey that led him to this moment.

For him, the Oscar was not just a personal achievement but a reflection of the greater changes happening within the entertainment industry.

“I’m standing here today not just for me, but for every Black artist who has faced barriers and challenges in this industry,” Tazewell shared.

“This is a moment that I hope will inspire others to pursue their dreams and to know that they too belong in this space.”

The journey to Wicked was a long one for Tazewell, marked by perseverance, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to creating costumes that enhance the storytelling process.

His work on Wicked was no exception.

The film, which brought the fantastical world of Oz to the big screen, required a delicate balance between respecting the legacy of the beloved Broadway musical and creating a fresh, cinematic experience for moviegoers.

For Tazewell, this challenge was one that required immense creativity and attention to detail.

One of the most iconic aspects of Tazewell’s designs for Wicked was his ability to shape the visual identities of the lead characters, Elphaba and Glinda.

Played by Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo, respectively, these two characters have become symbols of empowerment, and Tazewell’s costumes reflected their unique personalities and arcs.

Elphaba’s dramatic green skin and bold, angular outfits stood in stark contrast to Glinda’s ethereal, sparkling gowns, highlighting the dynamic relationship between the two characters.

Tazewell drew inspiration from various sources when crafting these costumes, combining elements of classic fantasy with contemporary fashion trends.

The result was a series of costumes that felt both fantastical and grounded in reality.

In particular, his use of texture, color, and silhouette allowed him to create garments that felt alive, dynamic, and deeply connected to the characters’ emotional journeys.

His designs also pushed the boundaries of what costume design could achieve in film, ensuring that each costume was not only visually striking but also played a pivotal role in the overall narrative.

During his acceptance speech, Tazewell took a moment to reflect on the significance of his achievement.

“This Oscar is not just mine,” he said, fighting back tears.

“It belongs to all the artists, designers, and creators who have come before me, who have paved the way for someone like me to stand here today.

This is for every person who has ever been told that their dreams are too big, that they don’t belong.

We belong.”

Tazewell’s win is part of a larger movement toward greater representation in Hollywood.

In recent years, the industry has made strides in recognizing the contributions of Black artists, filmmakers, and designers.

While there is still much work to be done, Tazewell’s victory is a powerful symbol of progress, particularly in a category—costume design—that has historically been dominated by white artists.

Tazewell’s success is seen as a crucial moment in the ongoing conversation about diversity, equity, and inclusion in the entertainment industry.

The Oscar win also speaks to the changing nature of the film industry, where diverse voices and experiences are becoming more valued.

As audiences demand more inclusive and authentic representations of stories, the importance of diverse perspectives in creative roles has never been more apparent.

Tazewell’s work on Wicked exemplifies this shift, as he expertly merged cultural and historical influences with his own vision to create costumes that felt both fresh and deeply rooted in tradition.

Beyond the accolades, Tazewell’s win has ignited conversations about the need for more opportunities for Black creatives in Hollywood.

While his Oscar victory is historic, it is also a reminder of the long history of exclusion and underrepresentation that Black artists have faced.

Many believe that Tazewell’s success will pave the way for other talented Black designers and creatives to be recognized for their contributions.

His victory has already sparked excitement among aspiring costume designers, many of whom now see Tazewell as a role model who has proven that it is possible to break through barriers and achieve greatness.

Tazewell’s win has also brought attention to the broader field of costume design, a profession that often goes underappreciated despite its crucial role in bringing a story to life.

Costume designers are responsible for shaping the visual identity of characters, creating garments that convey personality, emotion, and narrative—all while working within the constraints of time, budget, and historical accuracy.

Tazewell’s Oscar win has highlighted the importance of costume design in the filmmaking process and has sparked renewed appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship involved.

Looking ahead, Tazewell’s career shows no signs of slowing down.

He has already begun to work on several upcoming projects, including highly anticipated films and stage productions.

Fans and colleagues alike are eager to see what he will do next, knowing that his unique vision and talent will continue to shape the world of design in new and exciting ways.

For Tazewell, however, the future is not just about creating exceptional costumes but also about paving the way for future generations of diverse artists.

In the years to come, Paul Tazewell’s Oscar win will undoubtedly be seen as a landmark moment in the history of costume design and Hollywood.

His victory is a testament to the power of perseverance, talent, and creativity.

It is a victory not just for him, but for all the Black artists who are working to break down barriers and to make their mark on the world.

Tazewell’s success is a reminder that dreams are worth pursuing, no matter the obstacles, and that history can be made by those who are brave enough to chase them.