Given the late start date for Season 7, winter's arrival in Westeros has its downsides, but the chilly weather comes with at least one perk — new costumes. HBO just launched a new campaign celebrating the iconic static opening that plays before the beginning of each of the premium channel's shows, and in the process revealed the Game of Thrones Season 7 costumes for Jon, Arya, and all of your other favorite characters.
The big theme is colors that aren't black, brown, or gray have apparently been banished from the realm, along with the sunshine. Everyone — even the characters you would least expect — look battle ready. The darkness of the new outfits aligns perfectly with the first official Game of Thrones Season 7 promo, which seemed to position Jon, Daenerys, Cersei, and the Night's King as the major players in Season 7.
War is coming for everyone in Westeros, whether they're ready for it or not, and the characters' new looks reflect the harsh realities facing the realm. From Cersei's evil queen ensemble to Daenerys looking every inch the mother of dragons and ruler of the seven realms, each outfit is perfectly suited to the respective character's state of mind as they prepare for the last stretch of their journeys — and in true Game of Thrones fashion, there are a few surprises too.
Jon Snow
Jon's look hasn't changed much since he was crowned King of the North at the end of Season 6. With his ample fur cloak, he is definitely channeling his late adoptive father/uncle, Ned — although, given how his father's life ended, Jon might want to think before following Ned's example too closely as he prepares for battle with the White Walkers.
Sansa Stark
The once gentle Sansa has put away her intricate dresses and donned an outfit befitting a world-weary Stark. Her look still has its feminine touches thanks to the chain loops and glossiness of her furs, but overall, Sansa's new ensemble is the outfit of a woman ready to rule.
Cersei Lannister
Speaking of women ready to rule, Cersei is still sporting the elegant, but dangerous look she donned before using wildfire to blow up the sept. Cersei has taken the throne, and she wants everyone to know she intends to control the Seven Kingdoms with an iron fist.
Tormund
No one on Game of Thrones is as reliable as Tormund. If you thought he was going to change his look to better fit in with the northerners now that's he pledged himself to Jon, think again. Once a Wildling, always a Wildling — although, he's definitely been working on his come hither stare between seasons.
Brienne Of Tarth
The shift in Brienne's look is subtle, but between her wolf fur and cloak, she seems content to be serving the Starks, after several seasons of denying she was in their service. Seeing her place her hand over her heart is also an interesting choice, one that speaks both to her gentle side and the idea that the always honorable Brienne may have some tough choices ahead.
Jaime Lannister
Not much has changed for Jaime since last season, but it's fine to just appreciate Nikolaj Coster-Waldau being an adorable goofball in this photo. The poor guy should have fun now, because in Season 7 he's going to be sworn to protect his sister, who is already dangerously close to becoming known as the mad Queen Cersei.
Tyrion Lannister
Like Sansa, Tyrion is dressing for his new role in life. He's the Hand of the Queen now, and his pin proudly displayed on his new pinstriped ensemble makes his position known to everyone. He's looking dapper and in control — surely side effects of finally being allied with someone who trusts and values his advice.
Daenerys Targaryen
After years of gathering her army in preparation to retake the Seven Kingdoms, Daenerys is ready for her last big battle, and her look is amazing. Not only is she dressing practically for the colder climate, she's adorned her garb with a three-headed dragon pin that should strike fear in the heart of anyone who tries to stand between her and the Iron Throne.
Missandei
Missandei's look is modeled off of Daenerys' updated wardrobe. It's simple, practical, and, thanks to her pin, clearly reflects whose side she's on in the battle to come.
Varys
Finally, some colors that aren't entirely drab. Varys is ready to stage a coup with the combined forces of Daenerys, the Tyrells, the Sand Snakes, and the younger Greyjoys, but he still has time to pick out a gorgeous, gold-embellished robe.
Arya Stark
This look screams this girl is not "no one" anymore. Arya Stark is back, and she's ready for a fight. She looks every inch the warrior with Needle drawn, and her gray robe hinting at a return to her Stark roots.
The Hound
The Hound's inclusion in the promo should have fans psyched. Not only has he shed his peace-loving farmer style outfit, his new leather ensemble hints at a return to his reluctant knight ways, and maybe even a reunion with Arya.
Theon Greyjoy
Nothing new to note here, but it's still a relief to see Theon looking like himself again after so much time spent being Reek.
Ser Davos Seaworth
Davos hasn't changed much between seasons, but he's not wrapped up quite as warmly as Jon and the other characters who were last seen in the North. Could he be heading somewhere a little warmer this season?
Bran Stark
Bran is warging, as usual, but his ensemble looks less ragged than it normally does. Hopefully, this is a sign the youngest surviving Stark is headed for a reunion with his brother and sisters.
Hodor
What the Hodor? HBO has to be trolling fans because Hodor is definitely dead, and yet, here he is in a new promo. Either the actor was game to return long enough to take part in the teaser, or Bran's visions may prompt a return or two from the gentle giant.
As you can see, winter has officially arrived in Westeros, and your favorite characters are ready to get serious when Game of Thrones returns on July 16.
