Her image along with the image of Jesus can be seen on several pieces of bullet proof clothing. This is used as a means to symbolize that their religion will protect them from anything. By exhibiting religion in the film, Luhrmann is able differentiate the evil within the film from the good. Water is another symbol used in the adaptation. There are several scenes in which Luhrmann incorporates water as a means to show the innocence, love, and passion of Romeo and Juliet. Luhrmann's use of visual imagery and symbolism is just one way he is able to conform Shakespeare's original work for modern audiences. .
Luhrmann chooses to modernize the costumes in his adaptation, in order to appeal to modern day audiences. He chooses a mix of bold modern colors and contemporary styles for the costumes in his film, rather than the style from the original play's time period. As a way to illustrate the conflicting beliefs amongst the Montague's and Capulet's, Luhrmann elects to style them contrary to one another. For example, the Capulet boy's attire consists of formal suits and stylish, sleek clothing. While the Montague boys are dressed in beach attire, consisting of Hawaiian shirts and board shorts, and are often sporting outrageously colored hair. The characters of the film are dressed as a representation of their rank in society. Authoritative characters are styled in expensive and elegant attire, suggesting their wealth and rank within society. Luhrmann does not stop with simple, bold colors and contemporary style costumes; he goes one step further by including a drag queen. Mercutio's extravagant drag queen attire at the Capulet's ball is an illustration of sexuality within the film. Luhrmann intensifies the visual of sexuality as a means to appeal to a contemporary audience. Luhrmann's decision to change the style of the costume does not modify the play's meaning, but simply changes the appearance.
