The 1960s fashion icon who redefined the female spy
In short: She was a martial arts expert, a scientist, and a global feminist symbol. While often remembered for her iconic leather catsuit, the true legacy of Emma Peel lies in how her wardrobe and wit transformed British pop culture and influenced everything from comic book queens to modern superheroines.
Introduced in the British adventure series The Avengers, Emma Peel—played by Diana Rigg—was far more than a mere sidekick to John Steerd. As the daughter of industrialist Sir John Knight, Peel was a highly intelligent chemist and a master of martial arts. Her character was intentionally crafted with a sense of 'man appeal,' a play on her name, yet she remained a formidable, independent force who could frequently rescue her partner from peril.
Her sartorial influence was profound. During the show's fourth season, costume designer John Bates introduced a striking aesthetic featuring monochrome op-art patterns and miniskirts. Bates even licensed these designs through the 'Avengerswear' label for public sale. While the leather catsuit remains her most famous silhouette, Rigg actually preferred the softer stretch jersey and PVC alternatives designed by Bates. When the series transitioned to color, designer Alun Hughes pushed the boundaries further with psychedelic patterns and the famous 'Emmapeeler' jersey catsuit.
The character's impact extends far beyond the 1960s. Her influence can be seen in the 1980s redesign of Wonder Woman as a mod-style feminist, and even in Marvel Comics, where the character of Jean Grey as the Black Queen drew direct inspiration from Peel’s 'Queen of Sin' undercover costume. Despite the character's enduring strength, the actress Diana Rigg faced personal challenges with the role, often feeling uncomfortable with her status as a global sex symbol.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Emma Peel
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