Schitt's Creek: The real-life fashion inspiration behind Moira Rose’s iconic costumes

Schitt's Creek gave us a lot of memorable things. It gave us David’s sarcasm, Alexis’s “Ew, David,” Johnny’s optimism. But nothing matches the fabulous hurricane that is Moira Rose. Played brilliantly by Catherine O’Hara, Moira's wardrobe was an extension of who she was.

The show itself, created by Eugene and Dan Levy, follows the once wealthy Rose family after they lose everything and end up in a tiny town called Schitt's Creek. Beneath all the laughs, it’s about love, growth, and finding yourself in the most unexpected places. And Moira found herself draped in feathers, sequins, and wigs.

Moira Rose’s unforgettable costumes in Schitt's Creek were inspired by real-life fashion icons, designers, and a creative vision that made her larger than life.

Schitt's Creek: The fashion inspiration behind Moira Rose’s wardrobe

The Idea, from the beginning, was that Moira would never blend in. Her outfits were designed in a way that they gave her power. It was like a shield against the small town world she found herself in. Catherine O'Hara shared in an interview with The New Yorker:

"After we all agreed we were going to do the show, I had lunch with Daniel and Eugene Levy, and I knew we were going to talk about what I was going to look like. And I’d found all these pictures of Daphne Guinness. Her wardrobe, it’s just so great and extreme. It’s strong and it’s armor, which is perfect when you’ve had your life ripped out from under you, like Moira, and you’re in this place that’s like the town you got out of earlier in life."

In another interview with Vulture, she shared:

“Moira just has so much to show, she believes, but doesn’t know quite what that is yet. And if you can externally present different versions of yourself with the help of great wigs and wardrobe, then it boosts your confidence. ‘I have more to me, too. I can be different. I can still grow.’”

A big part of her costume came from O’Hara herself. In early creative meetings, she brought photos of socialite and fashion muse Daphne Guinness. She's a woman known for her love of black and white couture and daring silhouettes. O’Hara explained to Dan and Eugene Levy why Moira’s look should be rooted in that same theatrical way. It worked and Moira’s monochromatic palette and avant-garde style became instantly recognizable.

Moira’s famous wig wall became a character in itself in Schitt's Creek. Dan Levy told Vanity Fair that he and hairstylist Ana Sorys kept about ten wigs ready at all times, and O’Hara would simply choose one impulsively each day before shooting.

"Oftentimes, she would choose the wig right before she went on set, so it was very impulsive. Whatever wig called to her, she would put it on, twist it around, wear it sideways, or wear it backwards.”

Moira’s costumes told stories. Every attire of hers told us who she was. Dramatic, eccentric, vulnerable, and unforgettable. It’s why Moira Rose remains not just a character but a style icon.

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