Millie Bobby Brown's Controversial Season 5 Costume in "Stranger Things" Draws Inspiration from a Famous '80s Character

Millie Bobby Brown had some reservations about her character Eleven's wardrobe for the fifth season of Stranger Things, according to costume designer Amy Parris. Parris, who has styled the shows '80s-inspired looks in recent seasons, discussed the creative choices behind Elevens throwback outfit in an interview with the New York Post.

Its funny, because people have started asking, 'Shorts over sweatpants?' I knew this would happen it was a real trend in the '80s, Parris explained, reflecting on the outfits reception.

In the new season, Eleven appears wearing tiny red shorts layered over light grey sweatpants, paired with a cropped grey sweatshirt and a bandana around her neck. Parris revealed that the ensemble was inspired by iconic '80s characters. I combined elements of Josh Brolins look from The Goonies and Punky Brewsters playful style of mixing cut-up clothes, she said, referencing the 1984 sitcom starring Soleil Moon Frye.

Parris also noted that the shows storyline influenced the wardrobe. With Elevens friend Max (Sadie Sink) in a coma, Eleven isnt focused on fashion but still manages to make her outfits stylish. The layered look, which Parris anticipated might spark reactions, initially caused Brown to question the concept. She saw the concept art and emailed the Duffer brothers, asking, Are you sure about this? Parris recalled.

When Brown attended the fitting, she joked about her personal life, referencing her marriage to Jake Bongiovi in 2024 and their adoption of a baby girl in August 2025. Despite her initial doubts, Brown eventually embraced the outfit. Once she realized how comfortable it was and how easy it was to wear, she really got into it, Parris said.

Brown and her Stranger Things castmates launched the press tour for the final season in early November. Bongiovi accompanied her to the Los Angeles premiere on November 6, where Brown reflected on her decade-long journey on the show, highlighting the sense of family she developed with the cast and crew.

The first four episodes of Stranger Things Season 5 are now streaming on Netflix. The remaining three episodes are set for release on December 25, with the season finale airing on December 31, 2025.

Author: Sophia Brooks