OUR WORLD WAR

BBC · Costume Designer

DIRECTOR — Bruce Goodison, Ben Chanan

PRODUCER — Susan Horth

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS — Colin Barr

SERIES TRAILER

THE DESIGN

Joining BBC Three’s Our World War after the third episode had completed filming, I designed the costumes for the remaining two films, Mons (1914) and The Somme (1916), which were shot in reverse chronological order. Extensive research into original photographs, military uniforms, equipment and insignia informed the designs, with the aim of recreating the lived-in authenticity of the First World War while allowing the young soldiers to retain distinct, recognisable identities.

Within the apparent uniformity of military dress, individuality emerged through subtle variations in how clothing and equipment were worn, adapted, personalised and weathered. Historical research often revealed surprisingly unconventional details, including an almost Mohawk-like helmet decoration featured in The Somme, inspired by an original wartime photograph. Extensive ageing, distressing and breakdown further reflected the physical realities of life on the front line, distinguishing characters through their personal experiences and circumstances.

The production attracted close scrutiny and discussion among military historians and enthusiasts, particularly concerning uniforms, equipment and insignia. While some details prompted debate, specialist reviewers praised the convincing, worn-in appearance of the soldiers. Military historian Paul Reed remarked that they “really did look like soldiers of the BEF” — a particularly gratifying response to a design approach that sought to balance historical authenticity with individual character and storytelling.

“The actors looked at home in their uniforms, they were dirty and well worn, and the soldiers were dirty too with far from perfect appearances and teeth. They really did look like soldiers of the BEF.

– Paul Reed · Military historian · WW1 Centenary, 9 August 2014

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