Spring 2016

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Dan Lawson: Star Costume Designer

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Out of all the elegant tailored outfits worn by actresses Julianna Margulies, Christine Baranski and Archie Panjabi on CBS’s hit legal series The Good Wife, it was a turquoise leather suit, paired with a silk, ivory-colored blouse, that generated the most fan mail. The 1960s-inspired skirt and jacket was created by Emmy-nominated costume designer Dan Lawson ’86, who outfitted every character throughout the show’s seven-year run. Worn in the courtroom by Baranski, the suit (from his brand 35·DL) embodied the high style and strength of the female leads. “This show is about three amazing women whom I wanted to dress as powerful and feminine,” says Lawson, whose corporate chic stylings garnered as many fans as the award-winning acting and writing. After the show concluded this past spring, Lawson became costume designer on BrainDead, a CBS series from the Good Wife’s creators. He continues partnering on 35·DL, a high-end women’s business-wear line. And in August, Lawson and Margulies will receive Influencer of the Year awards from the Accessories Council. “It’s a lovely fashion world finish to The Good Wife,” Lawson says.