From Student To Cosplay Queen: Margo Takes Onlyfans By Storm

Elle Fanning Embraces the Bold Fashion of Margo Millet

When you think of OnlyFans, fashion might not be the first thing that comes to mind. Yet, costume designer Mirren Gordon-Crozier shattered expectations while crafting the vibrant costumes for Elle Fanning's character, Margo Millet, in the upcoming screen adaptation of Rufi Thorpe's 2024 novel, "Margo’s Got Money Troubles." Gordon-Crozier dove into the world of OnlyFans, inspired by Margo's digital alter ego, Hungry Ghost. "I researched OnlyFans, but I think some of it is a little bit more tame than what we did," she shares with a laugh.

The story follows Margo, a university student turned single mom, navigating life's challenges after an affair with her professor, played by Michael Angarano. Dropping out of college, Margo struggles with financial instability until she discovers a new path on OnlyFans. This bold move helps her reclaim her spark, blending her love for cosplay with her online persona, Hungry Ghost.

“It’s Margo’s world. It’s very bold and vibrant, even though we’re touching on some difficult themes," Fanning reflects. "It could have been bleak, but we’re in Margo’s mind, so there’s a boldness there that I’m happy we got to portray.”

Crafting a DIY Cosplay Wonderland

Margo's cosplay journey is a patchwork of DIY projects and imaginative storytelling, alongside help from her growing community, including fellow creators KC (Rico Nasty) and Rose (Lindsey Normington). Gordon-Crozier brought this unique world to life by collaborating with hair and makeup teams and using thrifted, one-of-a-kind pieces. Whether it was crafting KC’s lasso braids or Susie’s (Thaddea Graham) aluminum pull-tab armor, each costume was meticulously crafted to reflect Margo’s eclectic style.

Gordon-Crozier explains, "When Margo starts on OnlyFans, it’s a little awkward. She’s trying to be straightforwardly sexy at first, taking photos with her shirt off. Then she finds power in cosplay." Margo's digital persona, Hungry Ghost, becomes a creative outlet and a source of empowerment, allowing her to explore bold, otherworldly designs.

A Vibrant Mix of Real and Fantasy

The transformation reflects Margo's evolution from a student to a mother and then to an OnlyFans sensation. Her wardrobe shifts from muted collegiate tones to bold and imaginative cosplay outfits. Gordon-Crozier's designs draw connections between her everyday looks and her OnlyFans alter ego, emphasizing Margo's interest in aliens and spaceships early on with subtle hints like alien-themed graphic tees.

Each costume serves as a statement of Margo's creativity, combining elements like vintage cowboy boots and punk accessories with thrifted treasures. This approach not only respects Margo's financial constraints but also showcases her inventive spirit. "The most creative dressers make do with the money they have," says Gordon-Crozier, highlighting Margo's resourcefulness.

The Creative Force Behind Margo's World

Supporting characters like KC and Rose also received distinct styles, reflecting their own personalities. KC's look was influenced by Rico Nasty’s personal style, with vibrant wigs and bold neon colors. Meanwhile, Rose's attire, inspired by Harajuku fashion, adds a sweet yet raver twist to her on-screen look.

From Margo’s bold cosplay to her heartfelt family dynamics, "Margo’s Got Money Troubles" celebrates creativity and empowerment through fashion. As Mirren Gordon-Crozier notes, "The director and the showrunners weren’t scared of any of this. They could have said it’s too much, but they embraced it." This fearless approach resulted in a unique visual journey that mirrors the characters' own transformations.