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Costume Designer Chloe Karmin Decodes Anthony Bourdain's Pre-Fame Style in A24's 'Tony'

other · 2026-08-06

In the A24 biopic 'Tony', costume designer Chloe Karmin tackled the task of illustrating Anthony Bourdain's fashion during his formative chef years in Provincetown, prior to his renowned image. She highlighted that Bourdain's early style was a blend of chaos and experimentation, influenced by the vibrant personalities in the kitchen. Karmin incorporated elements that hinted at his later iconic look, including a flipped lapel, an art deco-inspired Michelin man tee, and a seersucker Pierre Cardin suit referenced in 'Kitchen Confidential'. Eschewing a powder blue suit for lacking the right foreshadowing, she chose a 'railroad denim stripe' to evoke Bourdain's future rock 'n' roll vibe. Dominic Cessa stars as Tony, reflecting his co-stars' personas. The article also notes the author's personal connection to Bourdain's distinctive style, emphasizing that true fashion is a reflection of one’s experiences rather than mere clothing replication.

Key facts

  • A24 biopic 'Tony' covers Anthony Bourdain's early years.
  • Costume designer Chloe Karmin worked on the film.
  • Bourdain's early style was chaotic and influenced by kitchen colleagues.
  • Karmin included references like a flipped lapel and a Pierre Cardin suit.
  • The Pierre Cardin suit was seersucker and mentioned in 'Kitchen Confidential'.
  • Karmin avoided a powder blue suit, adding a railroad denim stripe instead.
  • Dominic Cessa plays Tony in the film.
  • The film is set in Provincetown.

Entities

Artists

  • Chloe Karmin
  • Anthony Bourdain
  • Dominic Cessa
  • Hedi Slimane

Institutions

  • A24

Locations

  • Provincetown
  • United States

Sources