In a place where resources are scarce and gangs run amok, what would be your choice of amour? On the heels of George Miller’s highly-anticipated prequel of Mad Max: Fury Road, Furiosa, longtime fans of the desert-strewn franchise may find themselves looking back to the origins—along with the iconic styles of past films, which dates all the way back to the year 1979.
Aside from its compelling post-apocalyptic narratives and adrenaline-pumping sequences that have since become the benchmark of action films, the Mad Max franchise has played a pivotal role in building the visual lexicon of post-apocalyptic fashion that we know today. With an emphasis on ruggedness and practicality, the films’ signature aesthetic employs materials such as leather, metal, and scavenged fabrics to create looks that scream futuristic and dystopian.
This very post-apocalyptic fashion is too, mirrored in the sartorial world, taking shape in the creative visions of top designers and shaping contemporary fashion trends. Its distinctive aesthetic is particularly evident in John Galliano’s creations, as he consistently integrates distressed fabrics, militaristic motifs, and punk inspirations into his menswear collections.
The fashion in the Mad Max series has always been an important element of the films, reflecting both the changing aesthetics of filmmakers and the potential evolution of society after a catastrophic event. Characters such as Max Rockatansky and Imperator Furiosa have since become style icons in addition to being cinematic. Their rugged leather and utilitarian cuts with a post-apocalyptic edge are not only visually striking, but also enhance their character narratives, reflecting the survivalist spirit in the cutthroat environment they inhabit. Both of their signature items—Max’s weathered, black leather jackets and Furiosa’s layered utility belts—were channelled by current leading lady Anya Taylor-Joy in both Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024) and the film’s press tour.
Regardless of the character’s significance, every garment and accessory fulfils a distinct purpose, adding layers to the cinematic universe through meticulously crafted designs. This attention to detail and practical functionality adds to the immersive experience of the films, making the post-apocalyptic world feel both authentic and lived-in.
Safe to say, in Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, this sartorial metamorphosis will undoubtedly play a significant role in capturing the essence of Furiosa’s coming-of-age journey as she is thrust into the clutches of Immortan Joe’s tyrannical regime.
Below, Vogue Singapore looks back at the history of Mad Max‘s post-apocalyptic fashion, through the decades.
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One of the last law enforcement officers, Max Rockatansky patrols the post-apocalyptic countryside in matching black pleather motorcycle gear with a tight baby-blue tee and engineer boots in 'Mad Max' (1979).
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It is through the antagonists that the original film sets the tone for post-apocalyptic fashion with a rugged, DIY aesthetic.
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Leather jackets, torn denim, and makeshift armour were common. Clothing was practical—often featuring layers for protection against the harsh environment.
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In 'Mad Max 2', Max's jacket is weathered and worn, bearing the scars of survival in the post-apocalyptic wasteland.
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Costumes became more elaborate, with a greater emphasis on salvaged materials and repurposed fashion. The Warrior woman embodies post-apocalyptic resourcefulness with an combat suit made of patched garments, football shoulder pads, and safety belts.
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The Gyro captain's aviator goggles and headgear adds a touch of eccentricity to his appearance and suggests his affinity for flying.
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The costuming in 'Mad Max Beyond Thunderdome' serves as a visual representation of the deteriorating ecological conditions in the post-apocalyptic world. Clothing is often cobbled together from scavenged materials.
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The fabrics reflect the characters' adaptability to the harsh desert environment, and the use of earth tones and muted colors in the costumes further emphasises the bleak and desolate landscape in the film.
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Aunty Entity, the ruler of Bartertown, showcased a more eccentric, almost tribal style, with a dress made of pre-apocalyptic materials such as dog muzzles, coat hangers and chicken wire and auto-spring earrings.
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'Mad Max: Fury Road' brought a fresh take on post-apocalyptic fashion with a focus on practicality and extreme stylisation.
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Imperator Furiosa wears multiple belts crisscrossing over her torso, which doubles up on ruggedness and also serve a practical purpose in holding various tools and weapons.
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The five wives of Immortan Joe are dressed in a variety of soft, neutral-toned cotton garments, reminiscent of the flowing attire worn by Greek goddesses.
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The practical and protective robes of the Vuvalini draws influences from both desert attire and early aviation fashion.
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In 'Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga', Furiosa's changing attire mirrors her tumultuous journey before rising to the rank of Imperator under Immortan Joe's oppressive rule.
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