Tracing the Evolution of Bree Van de Kamp, 20 Years After ‘Desperate Housewives’ Launched
Bree Van de Kamp, a character from the popular TV series ‘Desperate Housewives,’ has been celebrated for her impeccable fashion sense and humorously stoic expression. Introduced as a stay-at-home wife and mother, Bree was characterized by her sleek red bob and impeccably shaped eyebrows, traits inspired by the mother of series creator Marc Cherry.
Initially, Bree’s fashion was traditional or conservative, reflecting a style reminiscent of First Lady Reagan and ‘Sex and the City’s’ Charlotte York. However, following the unexpected death of her first husband, Rex, Bree’s style began to shift. She opted for neutral black dresses, jumpers, and cardigans, but as her grief evolved, so did her wardrobe, bursting into vibrant colors over several episodes, symbolizing a personal renaissance.
Throughout the series, Bree’s character underwent significant transformations. She confronted challenges such as tumultuous relationships with her children, struggles with alcoholism, three marriages, and a scandalous false pregnancy. Her wardrobe choices reflected these changes, blending high-end streetwear with luxury fashion. The costumes were often repurposed to create new looks, ensuring that no outfit was ever truly “retired” for flashback scenes.
By the conclusion of the show, Bree relocated from Wisteria Lane to Kentucky, where she embarked on a political career as a legislator. Her clothing reflected this shift, showcasing a departure from her desperate housewife persona. While she moved away from her signature sweater sets, the knee-length skirts remained, evolving into more sophisticated iterations of her earlier style.
