True Blood Fashion: The Goddess

We may not know exactly what Maryann is yet, but her wardrobe certainly tells us who she thinks she is. Featuring goddess gowns, rich fabrics and intricate detail work, Maryann’s style harks back to pre-Christianity. As, we suspect, does she. Let’s take a closer look.

Powerfully Casual Tunics
Even when she’s dressed casually in jeans, Maryann’s personality shows through. She favors flowing tunic tops in dark colors with rich detailing, all part of her classic goddess look. The belted brown tunic she wore to Merlotte’s is very simple, yet adheres to her personal style. The dark brown is flattering, of course, but the draping calls to mind togas while the flutter sleeves are a subtle callback to the birdlike trance we’ve seen her go into twice now.  The wide leather studded belt adds a bit of edge to the look, just in case we forgot that Maryann has her own motives. (Get the look: tunic,  belt)

The metallic tunic she wore to meet Sam is luxurious and regal without being showy. The subtle pattern woven into the fabric is reminiscent of traditional Greek markings, another visual clue that this is being from an ancient time. Maryann completes this look with jewelry that has an aged patina, enhancing both her exotic looks and the sense of mystery we encounter every time we see her. (Get the look: tunic)

Maryann’s chance encounter with Lettie Mae at the Bon Temps sheriff’s office showed us the steel beneath the pleasant veneer. In these scene Maryann wears yet another tunic top, this time in black with hard metal accents at the collar. The cut may be loose and flowing, but once again the metallic accents reveal Maryann’s hard edge. (Get the look: tunic)

Every Inch the Goddess Gowns
Maryann clearly loves wearing dresses, though her idea of dressing up looks far more comfortable than what many women choose for a party.  Deceptively simple, all of her gowns feature deep v-necklines and long, flowing silhouettes, much like we see depicted in paintings and statues of ancient goddesses. For the near-orgy that finally knocked some sense into Tara, Maryann chose a black and yellow gown with rhinestone detail. An elegant updo completed the look, in stark contrast to the very inelegant behavior of the party guests.  (Get the look: dress)

For quiet afternoons around the house manipulating her boarders, Maryann chose another black dress, this time with a simple gold detail around the empire waist.  The regal cut of the gown only enhances the power simmering under the service of her almost eerie politeness,  as we see when she slaps Carl – and sends him crashing to the floor. (Get the look: dress)

In an upcoming episode, we finally see Maryann in full goddess attire. A white gown, artfully draped, is accented with antique gold jewelry and fresh white blossoms. The juxtaposition of purity and ancient power should prove potent in that scene, underscoring whatever move Maryann is making now as she toys with the citizens of Bon Temps. (Get the look: dress)

What do you think about Maryann’s style? Is her wardrobe a clue to her identity, or are we barking up the wrong tree?