A new adaptation of John Steinbeck's East of Eden is set to debut on Netflix on October 1st, 2026. Directed by Zoe Kazan, the daughter of the renowned filmmaker Elia Kazan, this series offers a fresh take on the classic novel. Unlike the 1955 film directed by Elia Kazan and starring James Dean, this version centers on Cathy Ames, played by Florence Pugh. The story follows Cathy as she navigates complex relationships and power dynamics, eventually marrying Adam Trask, portrayed by Christopher Abbott, and moving to California. Her journey takes a dramatic turn when she abandons her family, leaving their Chinese-American governer, Lee, played by Hoon Lee, to care for her twins, Aron and Cal. Cathy later flees to a brothel run by Faye, played by Martha Plimpton, and assumes a new identity as Kate. The costume design for the series is overseen by New Zealand-based Kirsty Cameron, who has drawn inspiration from a range of historical and artistic influences. Cameron referenced the works of photographers such as Edward Linley Sambourne, George Hendrik Breitner, Alice Austen, David Hamilton, Deborah Turbeville, and Arnold Genthe, as well as painters including Mary Cassatt, Pierre Bonnard, Berthe Morisot, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec, and Edvard Munch. These influences help shape the evolution of Cathy's wardrobe, reflecting her transformation from a young woman into a more sophisticated and independent figure. In the early stages of the series, Cathy's clothing is inspired by Alice's Adventures in Wonderland, with designs drawing from Lewis Carroll's photographs. As her story progresses, her costumes evolve to reflect her changing roles and relationships, including a wedding dress described as elegant and timeless. In the later stages of the series, Cathy, now known as Kate, adopts a more refined and sophisticated aesthetic influenced by figures like Patti Smith. The costumes for Kate emphasize clean lines, elegance, and variations in silhouettes, highlighting her transformation. The series also explores the wardrobes of other characters, including Adam Trask, played by Mike Faist, and Abra, the young companion of Aron Trask, whose clothing incorporates elements of modernity and freedom. The costume design further highlights the evolution of Lee's attire, reflecting his journey from a humble servant to a more self-assured individual. Through these visual elements, the series enriches the storytelling, offering a deeper understanding of the characters' emotional and social journeys.