Harley Quinn, one of DC Comics' most popular characters, has evolved incredibly since her debut in 1992. Known for her chaotic personality and complex relationships with Batman, Poison Ivy, and the Joker, Harley's visual style has shifted dramatically over the years, reflecting her growth from maniacal sidekick to loveable antihero. Each look represents a different facet of Harley's personality, from her original harlequin-inspired bodysuit to modern punk rock attire. In this article, we'll explore and rank the top five Harley Quinn costumes across comics, animation, and live-action, considering their impact on her character and legacy.
The Evolution of Harley Quinn
When Harley Quinn first appeared in Batman: The Animated Series in 1992, few could have predicted the character's lasting impact on DC Comics and pop culture. Created by Paul Dini and Bruce Timm, Harley was initially intended to be a one-off character but quickly became a fan favorite. Her playful yet dangerous demeanor made her an intriguing addition to the Batman rogues' gallery.
Harley's iconic jester costume, with its red and black color scheme, set the tone for her character: whimsical yet sinister. Over the years, as Harley Quinn transitioned from animation to comics and eventually live-action films, her look evolved to reflect her growing complexity. Each new costume not only gave her a fresh aesthetic but also symbolized different phases of her journey.
5. Batman: Arkham Series
Image: Rocksteady StudiosThe Batman: Arkham video game series, developed by Rocksteady Studios, played a significant role in redefining Harley Quinn for modern audiences. First appearing in Batman: Arkham Asylum (2009), Harley retained elements of her classic jester costume but with a more provocative twist. Gone was the full-body jester suit; instead, she donned a corset and knee-high boots. Her hair, now styled in pigtails, eventually became a staple of her look, along with heavy makeup and a more rebellious, punk-inspired attitude. This version of Harley Quinn was more dangerous and unpredictable, mirroring the darker tone of the Arkham games.
While this design drastically changed so much of Harley’s costume, it's undeniable that it left a lasting impact on her character. It ultimately paved the way for her subsequent portrayals in comics and films, making it a crucial milestone in her evolution.
4. Suicide Squad Isekai
Image: HuluThe new Suicide Squad Isekai anime offers a fun take on Harley Quinn, blending key elements from her past designs with a distinct anime flair. With her black and red jacket, shorts, and leather top, she looks like she could be the world’s next biggest vtuber. But what truly sets this version apart is Harley gets her own magical girl transformation sequence at some point in the series.
At the time of its announcement, having an anime series about the Suicide Squad was not on anyone’s bingo card. But all it took was showing Harley’s outfit to get everyone instantly on board with the imaginative concept. It’s a testament to just how enduring of a character she is these days.
3. Suicide Squad - Margot Robbie
Image: Warner Bros. PicturesMargot Robbie's portrayal of Harley Quinn in the Suicide Squad films brought the character to life for a new generation, cementing her status as a pop culture icon. First appearing in the 2016 Suicide Squad film, Robbie's Harley immediately captured audiences' attention with her vibrant and chaotic energy. Regardless of your opinions about the movie, Harley’s costume, particularly the "Daddy's Lil Monster" shirt, fishnet stockings, and colorful pigtails, became instantly recognizable.
Robbie's Harley Quinn was a perfect blend of sweetness and danger, embodying the "cute but psycho" persona that fans love about the character. The costume felt authentic to Harley's character—an outfit that she might have thrown together from whatever she could find. The clothes and Robbie's charismatic performance resonated deeply with fans, leading to an explosion of Harley Quinn cosplays and Halloween costumes.
2. Batman: Caped Crusader
Image: Warner Bros. AnimationBatman: Caped Crusader, the brand-new animated series helmed by Bruce Timm, offers one of the most striking redesigns of Harley Quinn ever. This version of Harley is a darker, more menacing take, that also harkens back to the core elements of her twisted character. Specifically, her origins as a psychiatrist. So, not only is this Harley more physically imposing than ever, but her twisted and methodical mind makes her even more terrifying.
In Caped Crusader, Harley's costume keeps the jester motif but with a color scheme, unlike anything like her previous iterations. Her silhouette is bulkier and more threatening, emphasizing her more vicious side. The use of darker colors gives Harley a more terrifying presence, fitting the series' tone, which is a darker exploration of Gotham's underworld. This redesign exemplifies how Harley Quinn's look can be adapted to suit different narratives while maintaining her core identity. It's a testament to the character's enduring appeal that she can be reinvented so many times without losing what makes her unique.
1. Batman: The Animated Series
Image: Warner Bros. AnimationNo discussion of Harley Quinn's best looks would be complete without acknowledging her original costume from Batman: The Animated Series. Designed by Bruce Timm, this outfit is not just one of Harley's most iconic looks but one of the most recognizable costumes in all of comic book history. The full-body suit, with its contrasting diamond patterns, jester hat, and domino mask, created a striking and memorable silhouette. The design was simple yet effective, perfectly encapsulating Harley's role as the Joker's jester and partner in crime.
What makes this look so timeless is its versatility. Elements of this original design continue to influence Harley Quinn's appearance across various media. Whether in comics, animation, or live-action, the red and black color scheme, diamond patterns, and jester influences remain a constant, proving that the original design was truly ahead of its time.
Harley Quinn's Pop Culture Legacy
Harley Quinn's ever-changing outfits are more than just a fashion statement—it's a reflection of her character's growth and adaptability. Each new costume tells a different story, representing a new chapter in Harley's journey. From her days as the Joker's loyal sidekick to her evolution into a powerful antihero, Harley's costumes have evolved alongside her, making her one of the most dynamic characters in the DC Comics universe.
As we look to the future, it's clear that Harley Quinn will continue to evolve, both in terms of character development and visual design. Whether she's in her classic jester suit, a punk rock outfit, or a magical girl transformation, Harley remains a character that fans can relate to and be inspired by. No matter what she wears, Harley Quinn will always be a symbol of chaos, fun, and empowerment in the DC Comics universe.