How To Get Beth Harmon’s looks in ‘The Queen’s Gambit’

Being a female grandmaster doesn’t really mean much in 2020, but in the Sixties, you’re a shining beacon of light and hope for women and future protégés. And that’s what The Queen’s Gambit (2020), a Netflix period drama that was recently released is all about. Based on Walter Tevis’ 1983 novel Anya Taylor-Joy plays the lead protagonist Beth Harmon, and the series explores the journey of a female chess prodigy and the significant impact that she made on a global scale.

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In order to efficiently narrate the notion of feminism, having a wardrobe filled with empowering ensembles is crucial as visuals play an important role in translating an ideology across on screen. In The Queen’s Gambit, Beth was first shown in dull coloured garbs (often fashioned in a muddy grey shade), which slowly evolved into lighter numbers that sport a sleek and sophisticated look.

From her conservative Peter Pan collar dress to a striking printed shirt, we’ve sorted out five of the best fashionable moments with distinct dress codes from the ’60s. Plus, we show you how you can rock it now.

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1. The Peter Pan collar dress

In episode 3, Beth is seen in a black form-fitting peter pan collar number while she was having her photo taken for a profile feature article. To work this style in 2020, opt for one that sports a billowy silhouette instead. Accentuate your waistline with a belt and finish the look off with a pair of flat sandals.

In episode 3, Beth is seen in a black form-fitting Peter Pan collar number when she had her photo taken for a profile feature article. To work this style in 2020, opt for one that sports a billowy silhouette instead. Accentuate your waistline with a belt and finish the look off with a pair of flat sandals.

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Peter Pan-collar taffeta dress, $1,900, Simone Rocha at Matchesfashion

Braided leather sandals, $207, Ancient Greek Sandals at Net-a-porter

Maillon Triomphe calfskin belt with horsebit detail, $1,100, Celine

2. The shift dress

In this scene where Beth heads to Moscow to play in the prestigious Moscow Invitational (episode 7), she wears a black and cream shift dress. To make this look edgy, opt for a piece that’s monochromatic, like this Andrew Gn number. Juxtapose it with a pair of printed sneakers and a brightly coloured cross-body bag.

Wool-blend tweed midi dress with metallic embroidery, $2,491, Andrew Gn at Net-a-porter

Tennis 1977 canvas high top sneakers, US$690 (S$926), Gucci

Hourglass mini leather cross-body bag, $1,250, Balenciaga

3. The retro print shirt

In episode 5, right before Beth plays against Benny Watts (right, played by Thomas Brodie-Sangster) in the 1967 US championship, she’s seen in a geometric printed short-sleeved shirt and a mini skirt. To make it modern, pair the retro number with a midi skirt instead. Accessorise with a silk bandana, just like how she did hers. 

Cotton poplin printed shirt, $1,580, Prada

Lambskin A-line skirt, $1,016, Ganni at Farfetch

Rodeo Des Cowgirls silk bandana, $310, Hermes

4. The checkered swimsuit

Beth is seen in a checkered swimsuit in episode 4, where she visits Mexico City to compete against numerous international chess experts. Choose one that’s unique, like this Norma Kamali piece. Pick a printed shirt to throw over you can rewear with a pair of denim jeans or a white skirt during the weekends) and a sun hat to protect yourself from harmful UV rays.

Polyester halterneck swimsuit, $194, Norma Kamali at Net-a-porter

Cotton printed shirt, $630, Eres

La Capitana iraca sun hat, US$350 (S$470), Johanna Ortiz at Moda Operandi

5. The polo top

In episode 7, she reunites with Jolene (left, played by Moses Ingram) to attend Mr. Shaibel’s – the janitor at the orphanage who taught her chess – funeral. In this particular scene, Beth is wearing a white polo top and a pair of navy blue shorts for squash before she travels to Moscow. Instead of keeping it plain, go for one that’s fashioned with prints. To achieve that city look, rock it with a mini skirt and a pair of leather sneakers.

Oversized cotton polo top, $900, Burberry

Gabardine mini skirt, $1,180, Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello

Beth calfskin sneakers, US$380 (S$510), Isabel Marant at Ssense