Black Panther

FEATURE: Cristina Sabatini worn by Angela Bassett for Black Panther.

Directed by Ryan Coogler, Black Panther is the highest grossing Marvel-Disney superhero movie to date. Pulling in over $1 billion in box office sales, it has set a new precedent for future superhero films.

Black Pantherfollows T'Challa (Chadwick Boseman) as he returns home to the African nation of Wakanda to take his rightful place as king after his father's death. He becomes quickly swept up in a villainous plan that threatens not only his nation but the world.

Like all other Marvel superhero films, Black Panther is based upon Stan Lee's comic books. The "Black Panther" character was the first superhero of African descent to appear in mainstream comics. Other African American superheroes have emerged over the years since, but none have ever been cast as a lead in a Marvel film before now. Black Panther is the first superhero film to center on an African American superhero and cast. 

Epic Fashions with African Artistry

Taking a step back from the fantastical plotline, epic fight scenes, and hero-villain drama, a special homage must be paid to the costumery from Ruth E. Carter throughout this film.

Every dress, piece of fabric, accessory, headdress, and color used was done with intention, respect, and inspiration from indigenous African tribes across the continent.

The most intricate of the costumes were those made for Queen Ramonda played by Angela Bassett. Carter said, "I wanted to present an image that was the quintessential queen -- hands down, no mistaking it." Thanks in part to her epic Zulu flared hat (3D-printed by Julia Koerner), there is no mistaking who the Queen of Wakanda is.

In a first glimpse at one of several 3D-printed masterpieces, seen in the movie, Angela Bassett posed for Entertainment Weekly in an all-black ensemble. Matching her symmetric crown are other geometric accessories featuring sharp lines and perfectly rounded edges to extend the perfect symmetry present in her crown.

The donut stone earring and resin bangle from jewelry designer Cristina Sabatini enhance the futuristic, fashion-forward ensemble that Queen Ramonda is known for.

Pieces featured by Cristina Sabatini: