Sex Education is a masterclass in blending elements from different eras to create a world that feels both timeless and contemporary.
Though Sex Education confirms that it is set in the modern world, the show tends to blend elements from different eras that create its visually striking world.
The nostalgic nod to the 70s
One of the most noticeable elements of Sex Education‘s world-building is its embrace of 70s fashion. The show’s characters sport a wide array of vintage-inspired attire, from bell-bottom pants to psychedelic patterns and oversized collars.
Example: Eric Effiong’s bold and flamboyant wardrobe is a prime example of how the series pays homage to 70s fashion while also infusing it with contemporary flair.
The incorporation of 70s fashion isn’t just a stylistic choice; it serves a purpose. It highlights the timelessness of the issues the show addresses, proving that the challenges of adolescence and sexuality are universal and transcend the boundaries of decades.
A school frozen in time: Moordale Secondary School
The show’s central setting, Moordale Secondary School, serves as a microcosm of its era-blending approach. The school’s architecture and overall design evoke a traditional British secondary school setting, complete with ivy-covered walls and a classic aesthetic.
Example: Despite its classic appearance, students within the school use smartphones, social media, and modern technology, illustrating the fusion of the old and the new.
This blending of traditional school aesthetics with modern technology mirrors the show’s central themes: the challenges faced by today’s teenagers while acknowledging the enduring nature of the adolescent experience.
Technology as a mirror of modern teenage life
Sex Education doesn’t shy away from the role of technology in the lives of its teenage characters. Smartphones, social media platforms, and online dating apps play pivotal roles in how the characters communicate, explore their identities, and navigate relationships.
Example: Text messages, dating profiles, and online resources for sexual health education are frequently used throughout the series, reflecting the technological landscape of contemporary adolescence.
By incorporating technology in such a natural way, the show remains relevant and relatable to its audience while also exploring the potential benefits and challenges of digital communication and self-discovery.
A whimsical blend of time periods
Beyond the 70s fashion and modern technology, Sex Education subtly infuses elements from various time periods throughout its storytelling. This whimsical blend of eras creates a world that feels both familiar and unique, contributing to the show’s universal appeal.
Example: The soundtrack features an eclectic mix of classic songs from different decades, further emphasizing that the themes explored are timeless and transcendent of specific time periods.
This creative approach allows Sex Education to speak to a broad audience while reminding viewers that the challenges of growing up, understanding one’s identity, and navigating relationships are constants amid the ever-evolving landscape of adolescence.
Conclusion: A timeless and inclusive narrative
In the world of Sex Education, the artful blending of elements from different eras creates a backdrop that enhances the storytelling and reinforces the series’ central themes.
The nostalgic nod to 70s fashion, the juxtaposition of traditional school aesthetics with modern technology, and the whimsical mix of time periods all contribute to a world that feels both timeless and inclusive.
Sex Education proves that the journey of self-discovery and the complexities of human relationships are topics that resonate across generations, making it a standout series in the realm of coming-of-age television.
Also Read: The fate of Sex Education characters absent in season 4
