Line Of Duty had many of us longing to be back to work, only to boast our work wardrobe once again. The new season of B.B.C.’s gripping crime drama has felt chic and sleek more than its predecessors.
The outfits of Kelly Macdonald’s Jo Davidson and Vicky McClure’s Kate Fleming have, with their cross-body bags, cream polo necks and slim-fit suit jackets, seemed visible and calm, unlike in previous seasons. “Kate wore A.P.C. this season; her bomber jacket and trenchcoat were from that label,” said the costume designer of the show from season two, Maggie Donnelly.
This season, the winter range of ME+EM went well for both characters,” she said, “as did Jigsaw and Maje.”
But have the appearance been a bit too good, compromising the realism the show is renowned for? “It’s not in everyone’s budget,” said a police officer who has served on the duty for two years, “and many cops don’t want expensive clothes to be ruined.
Another woman, who has served on the force for 15 years, said: “I’ve worked in some departments that are non-uniform, and I’ve gone for cheap clothes. I wouldn’t wear costly clothes just in case you get in trouble.”
Kate Fleming’s (played by Vicky McClure) hair, this season kept very short- also gets approval. “It’s about having a hair out of the way, so it can’t be a diversion, and it can’t become a hurdle when someone tries to attack you and reach out to you,” said a serving officer.
“The type of work we are in, there is an anticipation that you dress smartly,” another officer said. “When you’re handling crimes, serious allegations and members of the public, you need to act and look professional.”
