Swoon-Worthy

Swoon-Worthy takes you on a captivating journey through the intersection of period drama costuming, filmmaking, and stellar performances. Hosted by Carly (@perioddramastyle), each episode explores the dynamic relationship between the making of the film and the beautifully crafted scenes from iconic movies, miniseries, and TV series. From the allure of bygone fashion to the nuances of cinematic storytelling, join us as we unravel the threads of history, style, and the magic behind the camera.

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Avg 1 hr 19 min
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S7 · E5
Tuesday · 1 hr
Behind the Seams: A Conversation with Casta Hex
This week on Swoon-Worthy, we're joined by Casta Hex: historical costumer, fashion historian, textile artist, drag performer, and one of our favorite voices in the historical fashion community. From her embroidery and textile work on productions including My Lady Jane and House of the Dragon Season 2 to her breathtaking historical gowns and educational social media content, Casta Hex takes us behind the seams of her creative world. We discuss her love of 18th-century fashion and other eras she most enjoys recreating. Along the way, we make the case that audiences can absolutely connect with authentic period costume design, citing favorites like Emma. (2020), The VVitch, Gentleman Jack, and Downton Abbey. Casta Hex also shares her creative process, the films and costumes that inspire her work, and how productions like Dangerous Liaisons and Sleepy Hollow helped shape her artistic eye. Whether you love historical fashion, period dramas, embroidery, cosplay, drag, or costume design for film and television, this is a conversation you won't want to miss!
S7 · E4
September 16 · 2 hr 36 min
Sense & Sensibility (1995): A Jane Austen Masterpiece
This week on Swoon‑Worthy, we revisit Sense & Sensibility (1995), Ang Lee's beloved adaptation of Jane Austen's novel featuring an extraordinary cast led by Emma Thompson, Kate Winslet, Hugh Grant, Alan Rickman, and Greg Wise. After re-reading Austen's novel, we take a deep dive into Emma Thompson's Oscar‑winning screenplay, exploring the changes she made, the scenes she expanded, and why this adaptation continues to resonate with audiences decades later. We discuss the performances, the unforgettable dialogue, the romance, the heartbreak, and the moments that have become iconic among Austen fans. Along the way, we share fascinating behind‑the‑scenes insights from an editor screening and Q&A, Emma Thompson's published diaries, and the original screenplay book, offering a closer look at the creative process behind one of the most celebrated literary adaptations ever made. From Elinor's quiet strength to Marianne's passionate heart, we unpack the characters, relationships, and themes that make this story endure. Whether you're a longtime admirer of the film, a devoted Austen reader, or discovering Sense & Sensibility for the first time, this episode is a celebration of a movie we believe is nothing short of a masterpiece - just in time for the new Daisy Edgar-Jones led film hitting theaters this Fall.
S7 · E3
September 9 · 44 min
The Art of Knitwear: A Conversation with Liria Pristine
This week on Swoon‑Worthy, we're stepping into the fascinating world of costume textiles and knitwear with designer and textile specialist Liria Pristine. From Oscar‑winning films like Frankenstein and Wicked to historical dramas such as The Great and Mary Queen of Scots, plus fantasy and superhero favorites including House of the Dragon and The Fantastic Four, Liria's work has quietly helped shape some of the most visually stunning worlds on screen. As the founder of Maison Pristine, a bespoke knitwear studio, Liria collaborates with some of the industry's leading costume designers to create pieces that blend historical research, technical innovation, and artistic storytelling. Join us as we explore the art of knitwear and costume creation, discussing how textiles help define character, support world‑building, and bring authenticity to both historical and fantastical productions. We also dive into some of Liria's most memorable projects, including the extraordinary moth shawl worn by Mia Goth's Elizabeth in Frankenstein (Oscar Winning Costume Design by Kate Hawley) and multiple films with Costume Designer Alexandra Byrne. A huge thank‑you to Liria for sharing her time, expertise, and passion with us. You can follow her incredible work on Instagram at @liriapristine and @maison_pristine_studio, where she shares behind‑the‑scenes glimpses into her designs and creative process. Whether you're a fan of period dramas, costume design, textile arts, or the magic that happens behind the scenes, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.
S7 · E2
September 2 · 1 hr 43 min
Cinderella: The Best Disney Live‑Action Princess Movie
This week on Swoon‑Worthy, we’re stepping into the glass slippers of Cinderella (2015) — Kenneth Branagh’s sophisticated, romantic, and visually dazzling Disney live‑action adaptation starring Lily James, Cate Blanchett, Richard Madden, and Helena Bonham Carter. It’s a film filled with memorable performances, elaborate costumes, sweeping music, and plenty of magic. We revisit the movie through the lens of costume design, storytelling, and personal connections— including the unforgettable moment of seeing several of the film’s costumes in person at a museum exhibit. We talk about the iconic, layered blue ball gown, the craftsmanship behind the film’s glamorous looks, our favorite scenes, and why this version of Cinderella feels timeless. We also explore the film’s themes, from kindness to resilience, and how the story’s signature message — “have courage and be kind” — resonates so deeply. If you love fairy‑tale adaptations, lush costume design, or simply want to revisit a movie that feels like a warm, sparkling hug, this episode is a delightful escape.
S7 · E1
August 27 · 2 hr 13 min
The Other Bennet Sister: Our Thoughts on Mary's Journey
For our Season 7 opener on Swoon‑Worthy, we’re dedicating a full episode to the 10‑part miniseries The Other Bennet Sister — a story that has delighted period‑drama and Jane Austen fans by giving Mary Bennet her long‑overdue moment in the spotlight. We revisit the adaptation from start to finish, sharing our reactions to the costuming, the character arcs, and the choices that shaped this reimagined look at the Bennet family. We talk about how the series interprets Janice Hadlow’s 2020 novel and our beloved Pride and Prejudice, the moments that surprised us, the scenes that stayed with us, and the performances that brought new depth to familiar characters. From Mary’s emotional journey to the expanded roles of Caroline Bingley, Charlotte Lucas, Mr. Collins, and the Gardiners, we explore how this adaptation balances Austen’s world with fresh storytelling. We also reflect on the themes woven throughout the series — identity, belonging, sisterhood, and the quiet resilience that defines Mary Bennet — and how the miniseries adds something meaningful to the larger Pride & Prejudice universe. This episode is a cozy, in‑depth companion to one of the year’s standout period‑drama releases.
August 11 · 58 min
Period Drama News & Upcoming Releases We're Swooning Over (August 2026)
Time for a Swoon‑Worthy roundup of everything happening in the period‑drama world. From major trailers to Fall 2026 releases to long‑awaited adaptations finally moving forward, we’re covering the titles everyone’s talking about — and a few you’ll want to bookmark for later. We start with Wicker, the trailer that has taken the internet by storm, before diving into the upcoming films headed to theaters, including Sense & Sensibility, Werwulf, and Victorian Psycho. Then we look at the new period dramas arriving on streaming this fall — from East of Eden to Pride & Prejudice, The Gilded Age Season 4, and The Other Bennet Sister Christmas special. We also explore the biopics currently in development (Audrey Hepburn, Vivien Leigh, Fred Astaire, and the multi‑film Beatles project), plus the highly anticipated releases slated for 2027–2028, including Narnia, The Nightingale, The Mummy, and Joan of Arc. And to round things out, we touch on the newest announcements from PBS Masterpiece, BritBox, BBC, and Netflix. If you love staying up‑to‑date on upcoming adaptations, literary retellings, and the future of period‑drama storytelling, this bonus episode is your guide to what’s coming next. Be sure to check out the full list posted on Instagram: @perioddramastyle
June 30 · 41 min
Jane Austen News Roundup: The Other Bennet Sister Finale + Sense & Sensibility Trailer
When two big Jane Austen moments drop in the same week, we simply have to talk about them. As longtime Austen fans, we couldn’t resist recording a bonus Swoon-Worthy podcast episode to share our reactions to the finale of The Other Bennet Sister on BritBox and the newly released trailer for the upcoming 2026 Sense & Sensibility film. Carly is joined by her sister, Cayla, and friend Anna for a lively conversation about the 10‑part miniseries that has delighted period‑drama fans over the past few weeks. We discuss how the adaptation compares to Janice Hadlow’s 2020 novel, the character portrayals, our favorite scenes, and which Bennet sisters (or other Austen heroines) we personally relate to. Then we turn to the Sense & Sensibility trailer — the cast, the aesthetic, the choices we’re intrigued by, and the ones period‑drama fans are already debating online. From the darker palette to the tousled hair to that bold poster tagline (“Being agreeable never did a woman any good”), we unpack what’s working, what’s raising eyebrows, and what we hope to see in the full film. We also divulge our thoughts on the upcoming Netflix Pride & Prejudice. If you love Austen adaptations, character‑driven storytelling, and spirited conversations about the choices filmmakers make when reimagining beloved classics, this podcast episode is for you.
S6 · E14
May 25 · 1 hr 1 min
Outlander Season 8: Saying Goodbye — Our Thoughts on the Journey & Finale
Outlander has officially come to an end — and we have a lot to say. In this episode of Swoon‑Worthy, we revisit the final stretch of Season 8, sharing our reactions to the storyline choices that landed, the ones that didn’t, and the series finale that left us with a swirl of emotions. We talk about how the show has evolved over the years, the emotional impact of these last episodes, and the moments — both heartbreaking and magical — that will stay with us long after the story’s end. From character arcs to Diana Gabaldon book deviations to the themes that defined the final season, we’re unpacking it all with honesty, affection, and a deep appreciation for the world this series built. We also touch on the circulating rumors of a potential Outlander movie and what we’d hope to see if Claire and Jamie’s story continues on the big screen. If you’ve followed our earlier Outlander coverage — from our Seasons 1–7 recap to our immediate reaction to Episode 7 — this conversation brings everything full circle. Join us as we say goodbye to Fraser's Ridge, Caitríona Balfe as Claire, Sam Heughan as Jamie, and all our favorite characters. Outlander is one of the most iconic period dramas ever made, and it's time to reflect on a journey that has meant so much to so many fans.
S6 · E13
May 12 · 41 min
Bridgerton Behind the Scenes: A Conversation with Senior Costume Embellisher Jack Oliver Hopkins
This week on Swoon‑Worthy, we’re celebrating a major milestone — our very first behind‑the‑scenes conversation with someone from the creative world of a period drama we adore. We’re thrilled to welcome Jack Oliver Hopkins, Senior Costume Embellisher on Bridgerton, whose artistry has shaped some of the most memorable looks across Seasons 1, 3, and 4. In this episode, Jack takes us inside the world of embellishment — the creative storytelling and the craftsmanship that bring Bridgerton’s costumes to life. We talk about the evolution of the show’s visual language, the fantasy‑meets‑period aesthetic, and the collaborative process behind creating garments that feel both romantic and iconic. We also explore Jack’s artistic background and prior filmography, how the costume department approaches character through detail, and what it’s like to work on a series where fashion is central to the world‑building. From Queen Charlotte’s unforgettable looks to the Season 4 gowns that took our breath away, this conversation is a rare glimpse into the creativity behind one of our favorite shows. A huge thank‑you to Jack for sharing his time and insight — you can follow his extraordinary work on Instagram at @jackoliverclothing. And thank you, as always, to Stephanie and Sunnie for joining the conversation with thoughtful questions and personal connections. If you love Bridgerton, costume design, or the artistry that makes period dramas so magical, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
S6 · E13
May 7 · 48 min
2026 Met Gala: Celebrating Couture, Craft, and the Art of Fashion
This week on Swoon‑Worthy, we’re stepping away from our usual period‑drama deep dives for something a little different — a breakdown of the 2026 Met Gala. With this year’s dress code, Fashion Is Art, the Met’s spring exhibition highlights the relationship between garments and fine art, and we couldn’t resist exploring the craftsmanship behind the night’s most extravagant looks. As lovers of costume design, we’re celebrating the designers, tailors, embroiderers, embellishers, and garment‑makers whose work transforms the Met Gala carpet into a living gallery. From actors to athletes to musicians, we’re sharing our favorite looks of the night and the artistry that brought them to life. Join us (Carly, Stephanie, and Sunnie) for a conversation full of fashion joy, behind‑the‑scenes appreciation, and a few connections to historical aesthetics and the period dramas we adore. And stay tuned — next week we’ll be sharing a very special conversation with someone who works behind the scenes in the costume department of one of our favorite period dramas. You won’t want to miss it.
April 30 · 24 min
Swoon‑Worthy: Reflections and What’s Ahead on the Podcast
We’re stepping away from our usual deep dives for a special bonus episode of Swoon-Worthy — a moment to reflect on how far this podcast has come and to share a little peek at what’s ahead. It’s been two and a half years of conversations, costumes, characters, and community, and we’re taking a breath to celebrate the journey so far. As we wrap up Season 6, we’re looking toward a very exciting Season 7 arriving this fall (spoiler: it’s shaping up to be a Jane Austen–heavy lineup). And before that, we have something extra special coming in May — a behind‑the‑scenes conversation with someone from the creative team of a period drama we’ve covered many times on the show. In this episode, I’m joined by frequent co‑hosts Stephanie and Sunnie as we revisit some of our favorite episodes we’ve recorded together. We also share a short clip from my recent guest appearance on Escape Into Period Pieces, another wonderful podcast for anyone who loves thoughtful, cozy conversations about period dramas. In that chat, we talked about Northanger Abbey — and I answered a few questions about how Swoon‑Worthy began and why this community means so much to me. Whether you’ve been here since the beginning or you’re just discovering the show, thank you for being part of this little corner of period‑drama fandom. More episodes are on the way — and I can’t wait for what’s next.
S6 · E12
April 19 · 46 min
Outlander Season 8: Episode 7 Shocks, the Season So Far, and Finale Predictions
In this week’s episode of Swoon‑Worthy, we’re returning to Outlander for a follow‑up to our Seasons 1–7 recap — but this time, we’re diving straight into the whirlwind of Season 8. With only three episodes left of this iconic Starz series, we’re giving our honest thoughts on the season so far, including the dramatic and deeply divisive and upsetting Episode 7: “Evidence of Things Not Seen.” This episode contains major Season 8 spoilers as we unpack the moments that shocked us, confused us, and left the fandom reeling. We talk through why certain choices in Episode 7 didn’t work for us as longtime Outlander fans, including the deviations from the books, the Faith and Fanny storyline, William and Lord John Grey's scenes. We also chat about our love for Fergus and Marsali, and of course, the emotional weight carried by Jamie and Claire. We also discuss the beloved character death that has devastated viewers, and we reflect on author Diana Gabaldon’s comments about the latest plot changes from a recent interview — what aligns, what doesn’t, and what it means for the final stretch of the show. And because we can’t help ourselves, we end with a few hopes and predictions for the last three episodes. More time travel, plot resolutions, and a family gathering at Fraser’s Ridge… please! Whether you’re processing, venting, theorizing, or just trying to make sense of it all, consider this your Outlander Season 8 therapy session.
S6 · E11
April 15 · 1 hr 17 min
Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris: Dreams, Determination, & DIOR
In this week’s episode of Swoon‑Worthy, we’re heading to 1950s London and Paris for one of the most charming and hopeful period‑drama films of the last decade: Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris. Starring Lesley Manville in the title role, alongside Lucas Bravo and Alba Baptista, this story is all about dreams, determination, and the transformative power of a truly beautiful dress. We dive into the Dior magic — the gowns, the silhouettes, the craftsmanship — all brought to life by Jenny Beavan, whose costume design earned a well‑deserved Oscar nomination. It’s the perfect film for springtime: light, joyful, romantic, and full of that irresistible je ne sais quoi. The couture, the color palettes, the 1950s designs, the Parisian fantasy — we’re getting into all of it. Whether you’re here for the fashion, the heart, or the fairy‑tale sparkle of a dress that changes a life, this episode is a celebration of beauty, hope, and the joy of believing in something extraordinary.
S6 · E10
April 8 · 1 hr 25 min
Peter Pan: The Nostalgia of Neverland
In this week’s episode of Swoon‑Worthy, we’re stepping into a different kind of period‑drama nostalgia — the timeless world of Peter Pan. While J.M. Barrie’s beloved story has been adapted countless times, today we’re focusing on the magical, emotionally rich 2003 live‑action film, a version that holds a special place in our hearts. We explore the origins of the tale through Barrie’s play and novel, the author’s life as portrayed in the Oscar‑nominated Finding Neverland (2004), and the many screen interpretations that shaped our childhoods — from Disney’s animated classic to Spielberg’s Hook and beyond. Along the way, we talk about why this story endures: its themes of imagination, longing, childhood innocence, and the bittersweet ache of growing up. We also bring our personal connections and insights into the scenes, the performances, the production choices, and the costuming that make the 2003 adaptation feel so singular and unforgettable. It’s a journey through fairy tales, film history, and the nostalgic magic that keeps Neverland alive. Whether you grew up with Peter, Wendy, and Captain Hook or you’re discovering this version for the first time, this episode is a celebration of a story that continues to enchant generation after generation.
S6 · E9
April 1 · 1 hr 2 min
The Wedding Singer: 80s Rom‑Com Nostalgia
This week on Swoon‑Worthy, we’re diving into the totally awesome world of the 1980s with a nostalgic rom‑com classic: The Wedding Singer (1998). It’s our first time covering an 80s set film, and what a place to start — the iconic duo — Adam Sandler and Drew Barrymore. We break down the memorable costuming by Mona May (yes, the genius behind Clueless and Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion), the fantastic 80s hairstyles, the killer soundtrack, and the art, set, and production design that makes this movie feel like a time capsule. We also rave about the 80s pop culture references (Boy George, Madonna, MJ, CD Players, Rubik's Cubes, and more!) that live rent‑free in our minds and, of course, Billy Idol’s legendary cameo. Along the way, we share our personal connections to the movie, our favorite moments, and plenty of laughter. Join Carly, her sister Cayla (our resident rom‑com queen), and their friend Anna for a fun, nostalgic detour into 80s period‑drama territory.
S6 · E7
March 25 · 2 hr 12 min
War & Peace: Love, Humanity, & the Perfect Period‑Drama Cast
In this week’s episode of Swoon‑Worthy, we do a deep dive on the 2016 BBC adaptation of War & Peace — a miniseries we consider one of the most perfectly cast period dramas of the last decade. We rave about the extraordinary ensemble, from James Norton, Paul Dano, and Lily James to Jack Lowden (the upcoming Mr. Darcy) and Oscar‑winner Jessie Buckley, whose performances bring Tolstoy’s world to life. We walk through the scenes that moved us, the moments that linger, and the themes that make this story resonate across generations — goodness, compassion, moral courage, and the search for meaning in a chaotic world. Along the way, we share our personal connections, insights, and reactions to the characters’ journeys, the production’s visual beauty, and the emotional beats that still stay with us. And for the first time ever on the podcast, we hear from one of our listeners — a longtime fan of both the 2016 miniseries and the 1956 Audrey Hepburn film. She shares why these adaptations mean so much to her and offers thoughtful comparisons between the two, adding a new layer to our discussion. Whether you’re a Tolstoy devotee, a period‑drama lover, or simply someone who appreciates stories about humanity and hope, this episode is a heartfelt celebration of a timeless classic brought to life.
S6 · E7
March 17 · 1 hr 12 min
The Oscars 2026: Our Red Carpet to Ceremony Breakdown
In this week’s episode of Swoon‑Worthy, we’re doing something a little different — we’re talking all things Academy Awards. We kick things off with the Oscars Red Carpet, breaking down our favorite fashion and standout looks before the ceremony even began — think Dior, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Valentino and other inspiring designers. From there, we dive into the show itself — the speeches, the shocks, the snubs, and of course Conan O'Brien. We relive the ground-breaking wins, magical musical performances and nostalgic moments that had us cheering, gasping, or crying. Stephanie brings her longtime movie‑lover energy, Carly shares her full‑circle nostalgia from hosting red‑carpet Oscar parties in college, and Sunnie — who studied cinematography at NYU — offers her behind‑the‑scenes insights into the craft, the categories, and the filmmaking choices that shaped this year’s awards. We share our favorite films of 2025 - spoiler alert - there were a handful of period dramas like Hamnet, Frankenstein, and Sinners. Join us as we celebrate movies and the chaotic joy of Hollywood’s biggest night.
S6 · E6
March 12 · 2 hr 13 min
Bridgerton Season 4, Part 2: Sophie & Benedict’s Romance & Revelations
In this week’s episode of Swoon‑Worthy, we dive into Bridgerton Season 4, Part 2 — the episodes that delivered romance, heartbreak, revelations, and some of the most spicy moments of the season. We break down every major storyline and make predictions for future seasons of the show. We talk about our favorite performances, the relationships that deepened, the choices that shocked us, and the scenes we’re still thinking about. We also bring our personal insights into the costuming, production design, and emotional beats that made Part 2 feel so rich and satisfying. And of course, we share our reactions to how Benedict and Sophie’s story concludes, how the Ton shifts around them, and what this finale sets up for Season 5. Whether you binged Part 2 the moment it dropped on Netflix or you’re savoring it slowly, this episode is your companion through the romance, the drama, and the swoon‑worthy moments that make Bridgerton such a delight to watch.
S6 · E5
March 5 · 1 hr 31 min
Outlander Seasons 1–7 Recap: A Story That Transcends Time
In this week’s episode of Swoon‑Worthy, we take on THE most sweeping, passionate, magical journey in period‑drama television: Outlander. With Season 8 on the horizon, we look back at seven seasons of love, loss, time travel, trauma, joy, and the unique, time-bending bond between Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan) and Claire Fraser (Caitríona Balfe). Rather than attempting a scene‑by‑scene recap (an impossible task across seven seasons!), we focus on the big things fans actually talk about: the major arcs that shaped the Fraser family’s journey, the protagonists who captured our hearts, the villains who made our blood boil, and the ongoing question of whether the show struck the right balance between violence and joy. We bring our personal connections, emotional reactions, and long‑held opinions as we revisit the moments that defined the series — the highs, the heartbreaks, and the story beats that still linger. Whether you’re a longtime fan gearing up for Season 8, or a staunch fan of earlier seasons deciding whether or not to keep time travelling, this episode is a celebration of the incredible journey that is Outlander.
S6 · E4
February 24 · 1 hr 26 min
Hamnet: Love, Loss, and Legacy
In this week’s episode of Swoon-Worthy, we dive into Hamnet, a film that left us absolutely breathless. We rave about the spellbinding performances from Jessie Buckley, Paul Mescal, Emily Watson, and the extraordinary Jupe brothers, whose emotional depth anchors the entire story. Under the direction of Chloé Zhao, the film becomes a haunting, intimate portrait of love, loss, and legacy — and we’re officially rooting for all of them when awards season rolls around. We bring our personal connections and insights into every corner of this adaptation: the evocative costuming, the mesmerizing falconry sequences, the Shakespearean echoes woven through the narrative, and the scenes that linger long after the credits roll. From the quiet heartbreaks to the sweeping emotional crescendos, we break down the moments that moved us most. Whether you’re a fan of the novel, a lover of historical storytelling, or simply here for powerhouse performances, this episode is a heartfelt celebration of a film that feels destined to endure.

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