Nicola Peltz's recent Halloween costume has drawn comparisons to her mother-in-law, Victoria Beckham, prompting a psychologist to suggest the actress may be engaging in 'mirroring' behavior.
Peltz, who married Brooklyn Beckham, son of Victoria and David Beckham, donned a leather Catwoman outfit for Halloween that fans noted bore a striking resemblance to a similar leather catsuit Victoria wore in the Spice Girls' "Say You'll Be There" music video. This is not the first instance where Peltz's style has been compared to the fashion designer's; she has previously worn outfits and adopted poses reminiscent of Beckham.
Phil Macleod, a psychologist and founder of Thought Reader, explained to The Daily Mail that mirroring involves subconsciously reflecting aspects of another person's life, behavior, mannerisms, or style. He noted that such actions are not always about connection but can stem from a desire for belonging, competition, or asserting power and influence.
Macleod suggested that in the context of Peltz and Beckham's reportedly strained relationship, the mirroring could indicate a competitive dynamic or an unconscious attempt to emulate Beckham's public persona and style. "The truth is, someone can influence another person and be a significant reference point even with a tricky family dynamic or relationship between those two people," Macleod stated.
He added that while mirroring can begin unconsciously, Peltz may now be aware of the comparisons and choosing to maintain the style. "She could either be confident enough not to let the comparisons get to her and simply live above the noise. Or deep down, she could now be in competition mode with her mother-in-law, whether consciously or subconsciously," he said.
Macleod emphasized that mirroring doesn't necessarily mean wanting to become someone else, but rather asserting that one possesses the same or greater power, confidence, and influence as the person being reflected.
This pattern of style influence has been observed previously. In 2024, Peltz wore a Dolce & Gabbana leather jacket that Victoria Beckham had originally worn in 2001. Peltz also adopted a signature leg-kick pose similar to one Victoria has famously used. Additionally, Peltz has been seen sporting a casual look featuring a baseball cap and vest, a style often associated with Beckham.