As the highly anticipated new season of Emily in Paris draws near, Lily Collins has been reflecting on how her role as Emily Cooper has transformed her relationship with fashion. In a revealing interview with InStyle on August 6, the 35-year-old actress shared how stepping into Emily’s shoes brought back the joy of fashion that she had lost during a challenging time in her personal life.

For Collins, her previous relationship was a period of suppression. She described how her ex-boyfriend, whose name she has never disclosed, had a controlling influence over her wardrobe choices. He would often dictate what she could wear, telling her that certain outfits were too bold or revealing.

This led to what Collins refers to as her “dull period,” where she gravitated towards muted colors and safe styles, avoiding anything that would draw attention.

The Impact of Suppression on Self-Expression

In the interview, Collins opened up about how this relationship stifled her sense of self. She explained, “I thought for a while that if you make yourself physically, with volume, appear bigger, then you’re taking up too much space.” This mindset caused her to shrink both literally and figuratively, as she tried to conform to the narrow expectations set by her ex.

Collins has previously touched on this difficult chapter in her 2017 book Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me. In it, she wrote about how she tried to be the “perfect” girlfriend, but the more she silenced her true self, the more isolated she became. She described herself as a “one-woman island,” not strong and independent but codependent and afraid that leaving the relationship would leave her with nothing.

Reclaiming Her Style Through Emily in Paris

The end of that relationship marked a turning point for Collins. But it was her role in Emily in Paris that truly reignited her love for fashion. Working with the legendary costume designer Patricia Field, known for her work on Sex and the City, was an empowering experience for Collins. It allowed her to take control of her on-screen style, which gradually influenced her personal wardrobe as well.

Collins recalled how she would send feedback on potential outfits for the show, thinking she was simply offering suggestions. However, when she arrived in Paris for her first fitting, she was amazed to see that many of her ideas had been brought to life. “I was blown away,” she said, realizing that her input was not only considered but valued. When she expressed her surprise, the customer responded with a simple, “But you said you liked them?”

Bold Fashion Choices

This experience was a revelation for Collins. Once again, she began to see fashion as a powerful tool for self-expression. “One thing I love about Emily is that she takes up space in a lovely way,” Collins explained.

Emily’s fearless approach to mixing patterns, prints, and textures was something that Collins had previously shied away from. But through her character, she found the courage to go bold and rediscover her love for vibrant, eye-catching fashion.

Despite the mixed reviews that Emily in Paris has received for its costume choices, Collins remains unfazed by the criticism. She understands that Emily’s style is meant to be exaggerated and even a bit over-the-top at times. “Emily was meant to look out of place, leaning all the way into the clichés of French style,” she said. This contrast, especially when compared to her boss Sylvie’s sleek and sexy vibe, is intentional and serves to highlight Emily’s unique character.

A Journey Back to Fashion Freedom

For Collins, her journey back to fashion freedom has been deeply personal. Emily in Paris has allowed her to reconnect with her love of bold and playful fashion, a journey that has been both empowering and liberating.

As fans eagerly await the new season, they can look forward to seeing Collins continue to explore this newfound freedom, both on-screen and in her personal life.

Through the character of Emily Cooper, Lily Collins has not only rediscovered her passion for fashion but has also reclaimed her voice and sense of self. The upcoming season of Emily in Paris promises to showcase this transformation, with Collins in her boldest, most vibrant self yet.