How Belly’s Outfits Shift Between Brothers
In my opinion, you can tell who Belly is truly meant to end up with just by paying attention to what she wears. Her outfits subtly reflect her emotional state and the nature of her relationships.
When she’s with Jeremiah, Belly is often seen in sleeveless sundresses and heels — outfits that closely resemble what Susannah used to wear in Season 1. It feels almost symbolic, like Belly is stepping into a role: the caretaker, the ideal partner, someone who is trying to fulfill a version of love that’s expected rather than instinctive. There’s a polished, performative edge to the way she dresses around him, as if she’s presenting a version of herself that fits into someone else's idea of romance.
In contrast, when she’s with Conrad, her style shifts completely. She wears comfortable, natural-fiber clothing — linen shirts, jeans, sweatshirts, or cozy pajamas. Sometimes, she’s even in red. (Hint, hint) This version of Belly is relaxed, at ease, and most importantly, herself. Her outfits in these moments are more in line with how she dressed in Season 1 — the way she looks at home, with her mom, or around close friends. It’s not curated; it’s authentic.
Her wardrobe becomes a reflection of who she’s trying to be versus who she truly is — and that says everything. #lemon8partner #thesummeriturnedpretty #bellyconklin #teamjeremiah #teamconrad
The way Belly’s fashion choices mirror her emotional state and romantic inclinations is a fascinating example of nonverbal storytelling in TV shows. By observing the distinct differences in her wardrobe, viewers gain insight into her complex relationships with the two brothers, Jeremiah and Conrad. When Belly wears sleeveless sundresses and heels around Jeremiah, it signals her attempt to fit into a role shaped by others’ expectations, reminiscent of Susannah’s style in Season 1. This outfit choice symbolizes a desire to fulfill a conventional ideal of love that may not entirely align with her inner feelings. Conversely, Belly’s clothing around Conrad is unpretentious and comfortable, featuring natural fabrics like linen and casual items such as sweatshirts and jeans. The frequent incorporation of red not only highlights a subtle romantic hint but also shows her relaxed, authentic self when she is with him. This contrast suggests that her real identity comes forth when she’s with Conrad, indicating emotional comfort and genuine connection. From a style perspective, the choice of natural fibers and laid-back pieces enhances Belly’s portrayal as someone grounded and sincere in her relationship with Conrad. Red, often associated with passion and love, is strategically used to further emphasize the depth of her feelings. Meanwhile, the more polished, performative outfits around Jeremiah reveal her struggle between societal expectations and personal desires. This nuanced use of costumes as a narrative device reflects a broader trend in storytelling where fashion silently conveys character development and emotional complexity. For fans analyzing Belly’s journey, paying close attention to these subtle sartorial cues can deepen their understanding of her internal conflicts and ultimate romantic fate. It’s a perfect example of how wardrobe choices contribute greatly to character arcs, enriching the viewing experience by adding layers of meaning beyond dialogue and action. Overall, Belly’s fashion evolution is an authentic extension of her character growth, revealing who she is trying to be versus who she truly is with each brother. This highlights how apparel can be a powerful tool in visual storytelling, shedding light on deeper emotional truths and relationship dynamics.
