Netflix’s Sex Education exploded onto screens in early 2019. The eclectic, colourful aesthetic of the show combined with its delightfully awkward style of humour and many heartwarming moments made it an instant hit with audiences. One of the most-talked-about aspects of Sex Education is the retro feel and the clothes worn by the characters are a huge part of the overall look of the show.
Everything about it is bold – from the fashion to the way it tackles teen issues. Director and creative producer Ben Taylor told GQ Magazine that when designing costumes for the show, they wanted “some real clear water between all the characters.” The main characters all have a specific sense of style that sets them apart from the others and, in some cases, alludes to their personality. Although almost every single outfit seen on screen is well-thought-out, some looks are definitely more memorable than others.
Otis’ Iconic Jacket
Pretty much every time viewers see Otis he is wearing this jacket, and for good reason. It’s peak Otis – a cream, red and blue vintage bomber jacket, comfortable and a little muted. Many of the other students at Moordale commit to more colourful patterned looks, whereas Otis gravitates to more familiar clothes which alludes to his insecurities and his struggle to find his identity.
Not only is the jacket a good indicator of Otis as a person, but it also fits well with the retro aesthetic of the show.
Ola’s Patchwork Coat
This fun look from season 3 episode 3 is definitely a fashion high for Ola. The coat is a statement piece and adds a bit of spice to Ola’s usual ’80s and ’90s-inspired style.
It works perfectly for the character as viewers tend to see Ola wearing lots of bright rainbow colours and comfy styles, and fits in with the eccentric fashion aesthetic of the show. The sunset coloured stripy jumper underneath the coat is another well-executed example of power-clashing.
Ruby’s Bowling Outfit
This is a chic look from new fan-favourite Ruby Matthews in season 3 episode 3 when she goes on a double date with Otis, Eric, and Adam. She sports a ’60s inspired look here with a ruffled abstract print dress, dramatic earrings and the yellow jacket she often wears.
It’s typically Ruby – fashionable and a little extra, especially for a trip to the bowling alley. It fits in perfectly with the retro vibe of the show and showcases Ruby’s unique, glamorous sense of fashion.
Aimee’s Pink Blazer
Aimee is generally seen in ’70s-inspired vintage looks, and this blazer is no exception. This outfit combines a variety of inspirations with typically ’70s flared jeans, but there are also references to ’80s fashion with the blazer and layered gold jewellery.
This particular ensemble is the quintessential Aimee look – she tends to go for louder colours that make her stand out from the crowd. The mixture of patterns and textures in this outfit speak to her quirky sense of style as well as her bright and ditzy personality.
Eric’s Colourblock Trousers
This unforgettable outfit from his picnic date with Adam is the epitome of Eric’s dress sense. He wears color-block trousers, a dark floral top, high top Vans and a white eye makeup look. It’s the perfect example of power-clashing and, like most of his wardrobe, is utterly joyous.
He is not afraid to express himself through his clothes and his confidence is what really makes this outfit work, the bright colours and different textures reflecting his bold personality as much as Eric’s funniest quotes in Sex Education. Trendy, fun and a little wild – just like Eric.
Lily’s Silver Wig
In the season 3 opener Lily wears this quirky space-inspired look. She’s known for her out-of-the-box style, but this outfit really highlights her confidence in embracing her sexuality as a young woman.
The orange latex, bondage-reminiscent details and shiny silver wig are references to Lily’s interest in writing alien erotica and not only work for the character but also showcase a more high fashion look than we usually see at Moordale.
Ruby’s White Jumpsuit
Many of fashionista Ruby’s looks are ’60s-inspired but the white jumpsuit she wears in the season 3 opener takes more cues from the ’70s. Her chunky yellow plastic earrings play into the “kitschy” jewellery of the ’60s, cited by Harper’s Bazaar as one of the best fashion trends of the era, but the jumpsuit is peak ’70s with the wide leg.
It’s both classy and preppy with a touch of sexiness that suits Ruby’s assertive and sassy persona perfectly.
Jean’s Blue Jumpsuit
The first time fans meet Otis’ iconic mother Jean – played by Gillian Anderson in one of her best roles – she is wearing this blue jumpsuit. It is the quintessential early-Jean look and screams savvy career woman, but with a touch of quirkiness.
The structured top is both classy and a little sexy, and the flowing wide-leg trousers signal her free-spirited side, while the muted blue color contrasts with her icy white hair perfectly. It’s classic and timeless and is the perfect outfit to introduce this one-of-a-kind lady.
Eric’s Hedwig Outfit
Eric looks amazing in this drag look, and it’s a fashion standout from the series. He dons it for his annual birthday viewing of 2001 musical movie Hedwig And The Angry Inch, one of the greatest movies about music, with Otis – but ends up on a solo adventure. Whilst actor Ncuti Gatwa told the Radio Times that he found his scenes in this ensemble a “challenge,” he credited them for making him “braver as an actor.”
As well as being an all-around fabulous outfit with the decadent combination of tiger print fur and rhinestone-encrusted denim, we also see Eric experimenting with make-up in a way that develops from this point onwards as he becomes more comfortable with his identity.
Maeve’s Dance Dress
Although Maeve acquired this dress in a pretty unconventional way – her wayward brother cheekily begged for donations with a made-up sob story – it can’t be denied that it’s perfect for her. This black number manages to signal both her rebellious persona and her more vulnerable side.
The colour is typical Maeve but the dainty cut of the dress, and the little bow, is both beautiful and classic, and this is the first time viewers really see her dressed up. This outfit perfectly encapsulates Maeve’s edgy fashion sense and her fragility.
