Cynthia Erivo, acclaimed actress and singer, has revealed why her wardrobe for the Wicked: For Good press tour is notably lacking in green—the color fans have long associated with her character, Elphaba.

Erivo, who stars as the iconic Wicked witch in the two-part film series, became known for her method-dressing approach during the first film’s promotional tour in 2024. She often incorporated shades of green into her outfits to embody Elphaba, creating memorable, character-inspired looks that ranged from emerald gowns to bold, neon ensembles.

A Conscious Shift in Style

Speaking with The TODAY Show, Erivo explained that the absence of green during the current press tour was a deliberate stylistic choice:

“I haven’t retired it completely, I just haven’t worn it as much this time around, because we wanted an evolution for her [Elphaba],” Erivo shared. “This isn’t the last time you’ll see green on me. It’s actually one of my favorite colors, but it wasn’t right for this time around.”

Her comments suggest that the wardrobe choices reflect a deeper narrative intention, signaling a new chapter in Elphaba’s story.

Iconic Green Looks from the First Press Tour

During the first film’s press cycle, Erivo’s green outfits drew widespread attention. Some standout looks included:

• A bright green vinyl Louis Vuitton dress paired with a dramatic fringed silk stole.
• A forest green corseted gown and matching hat during a viral interview with Ariana Grande for Out.com.
• A custom emerald green strapless Louis Vuitton gown featuring intricate beading and a bubble hem at the 2024 Academy Gala.

These ensembles were widely celebrated by fans and fashion critics alike, cementing Erivo’s reputation for thoughtful, character-driven styling.

Style with Purpose

Erivo emphasized that her wardrobe choices are always intentional and story-driven. Speaking to PEOPLE in August, she explained:

“Everything was really thought out, and that’s the way we always are. We’re very picky, selective about what we put on and what we’re wearing, and the story we’re telling.”

She continued:

“More than anything we try and have a really good time doing it. If it doesn’t feel good to wear, we’re not wearing it. And if I love it and it feels good, then I’ll be wearing it. And it can be as avant-garde or as classic as it wants to be, as long as we know what story we’re telling, and it feels good to tell that story, then I’ll be in it.”

Looking Ahead

Although fans may miss her green ensembles during the current press tour, Erivo reassured them that the color remains close to her heart. She teased that future appearances could bring back Elphaba-inspired green, keeping her connection to the iconic role alive in style.