First costume Harley Quinn wore was a startling Joker rip-off.
Beloved DC Comics character Harley Quinn is well-known for her vivid and unique black and red jester costume. Many fans might not know, though, that her first comic book costume was a straight copy of the Joker's design! Her first canonical appearance in Paul Dini and Yvel Guichet's 1999 comic Batman: Harley Quinn #1 reveals this startling discovery.
The Story Behind Harley Quinn's Look Inspired by Joker
Harley's origin narrative opens in Batman: Harley Quinn #1 as she develops feelings for the Joker while employed as an orderly at Arkham Asylum. After helping Joker in his own escape, the narrative centers on her search for a new outfit and her flight from Arkham. Harley first chooses among several costume options a clear copy of the Joker's iconic purple and green three-piece suit, complete with a yellow handkerchief, a green dress shirt, a matching tie, and spectator shoes. She even attempts to execute the Joker's trademark green wig and white gloves. But Harley herself considers this costume "derivative," thus it is only temporary—just one panel. She throws it away.
Evolution of Harley Quinn towards Her Iconic Costume
Before deciding on her famous red and black jester costume, which has come to represent her character, Harley tries two more costumes. Choosing to abandon the Joker-inspired wardrobe highlights Harley's growing identity and independent attitude. She is a strong and original character in her own right, not only a copy of her dear Joker.
Harley Dressed as the Joker: A Darker Reason Second Time
Although Harley's second Joker-like look in the 2018 comic Batman: Damned #2 by Brian Azzarello and Lee Bermejo has a far darker motive than her first costume, which was just a fashion experiment. In this narrative, Harley takes on the Joker's image following Batman's presumed murder. Showcasing a darker side of Harley Quinn, she accessors with the Joker's recognizable purple overcoat, green hair, and face makeup. One of Harley's most sad events, this change captures the suffering and loss she goes through after the Joker's supposed death.
Harley Quinn's Changing Fashion
From a basic harlequin jumpsuit to her recognizable red and black jester outfit, Harley Quinn has developed into a DC Universe fashion-forward character. Many times, her costume has been reinterpreted, each variation reflecting her changing character and the stories she finds herself in. Harley Quinn's costume's development is evidence of both her ongoing appeal and the DC Comics writers and artists' inventiveness in bringing her to life.
