Netflix’s new series Forever isn’t just about young love — it’s about identity, history, and community. And costume designer Tanja Caldwell made sure every outfit told that story too.
Tanja Caldwell Highlights Black LA Culture Through Fashion
Since its release on May 8, 2025, Forever has become one of Netflix’s most talked-about shows. Created by Mara Brock Akil, the show follows Justin Edwards and Keisha Clark as they navigate the ups and downs of young love in today’s world.
But beyond the drama and romance, the series also celebrates Los Angeles culture — especially Black LA culture. The person responsible for bringing that vision to life through fashion is Tanja Caldwell, a costume designer known for her bold, intentional looks.
Caldwell, though not originally from LA, has lived there for years. She understands the city’s rhythm, its style, and what makes Black LA culture shine. “It’s always a pleasure when I get to showcase that in a really honest, true, genuine way,” Caldwell told MadameNoire.
Fashion as a Character in Forever
For Caldwell, the clothing in Forever isn’t just about style — it’s about storytelling. Each piece of clothing was chosen to reflect the characters’ personalities, the neighborhoods they live in, and the city’s deep Black history.
“When I was first approached by Mara and Regina [King], one of the first things they said was, ‘We want this to feel real to young Black people in LA,’” Caldwell shared. And so she went to work studying the trends, history, and meaning behind what young Black people wear in LA today.
The result? A wardrobe that’s fresh, authentic, and deeply connected to the city. From vintage streetwear to modern luxury, Forever’s fashion celebrates a culture often overlooked on-screen.
A Love Letter to the Culture
Caldwell’s work on Forever is more than costume design — it’s a love letter to Black culture in Los Angeles. Every outfit reflects pride, resilience, and creativity. It shows that Black LA isn’t a monolith, but a tapestry of styles and stories.
She credits working with Mara Brock Akil for the chance to dig deep into this culture. “Mara really studies the culture,” Caldwell explained. “She has a strong hold on not just Black culture, but specifically LA culture and young adult culture.”
Together, they made sure the series would speak directly to young Black audiences, letting them see themselves in every scene — down to the sneakers, braids, and vintage T-shirts.
Forever and Its Impact on Fashion and Representation
Since its release, Forever has not only earned praise for its story but also for its fashion. Many viewers have pointed out how accurately it captures the style of today’s Black youth in LA.
By making fashion a core part of the show, Caldwell has helped Forever stand out in a crowded market. It’s a reminder that clothes are more than fabric — they carry meaning, memories, and cultural pride.
The show is also a fresh example of how Black creatives are taking control of their stories, both behind and in front of the camera. With talents like Caldwell and Akil leading the way, audiences can expect more authentic, culture-driven stories on major platforms like Netflix.
