Television + Fashion: Iconic Characters Who Influenced Me
Growing up in the ‘90s and early 2000s meant not just watching television - it was almost like studying it. Fictional characters weren’t just part of storylines; they were style icons shaping trends, inspiring wardrobes, and forever embedding themselves in the pop culture lexicon. Fashion and television go hand in hand because what we see on screen doesn’t stay there - it trickles into closets, onto runways, and our conversations.
When you reach the formative years where you get to make decisions about what you’re going to wear and how you are going to represent yourself in the world, television just happens to be one of the places where experimentation begins. Seeing the same fictional characters week after week wearing outfits or pieces that you love or that utilize current trends, can be incredibly inspiring. I know personally all of these characters made me try different things to see what worked and what didn’t. From leather trench coats to loose cargo pants with flip flops, I’ve tried half a million different things to find out what like and to shape the style I have now. Of course, with the pros, there are definitely the cons. The collar up polo shirt or the bedazzled tank top with pigtails that I would much rather forget.
Why Television and Fashion Are Forever Linked
Television gave us a front-row seat to the fashion trends that defined the decades. Whether it was Rachel Green inspiring a generation of young professionals or Fran Fine proving you can never have too many prints, these characters shaped how we saw ourselves and how we show up in the world. The television characters below inspired much of my style journey growing up and even now as trends cycle back around. Next time you rewatch one of your favorite shows, take note. You’re not just watching tv, you’re experiencing a masterclass in style that continues to influence wardrobes everywhere.
Carrie Bradshaw
Sex and the City
This a no-brainer. Sex and the City was a television staple and to this day Carrie is a style icon. Sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. Carrie Bradshaw isn’t just a fictional character, she was a fashion revolution. Her fearless mixing of high and low fashion, the tutu skirt, and signature Manolos turned every street corner into a runway. Carrie proved that fashion is self-expression, art, and sometimes, the best therapy. To this day when I feel like my outfit is a bit too much, I just think about what Carrie would do - even if New York is more willing to embrace style than Arizona.
Statement Dressing Everyday
Embracing Carrie’s style means experimenting with unexpected pairings and being bold. Wear a tutu-inspired midi skirt with a structured blazer, or mix denim with sequins for a playful contrast. Invest in the best statement heels - colorful pumps or embellished sandals - and layer with unique accessories like oversized earrings or vintage clutches.
Lizzie McGuire
Lizzie McGuire
Who could possibly forget Lizzie McGuire? Just like the Olsen Twins were, Lizze McGuire inspired many of my early high school outfits and hair styles. Her fashion was a vibrant mix of early 2000s trends - bold patterns, playful layering, and whimsical accessories that felt DIY yet still put together. From butterfly clips to sparkly flared jeans, her outfits captured the awkward yet adventurous spirit of the early 2000s teens. Lizzie’s style wasn’t about perfection; it was about experimenting and having fun with fashion. I’m still mad at Disney for pulling the plug on the adult reboot. I would have loved to see Lizzie’s outfits today.
Quirky, Colorful, and Unapologetically Fun
Channel Lizzie’s playful energy with a modern twist on Y2K trends. Statement pieces like printed mesh tops, baggy cargo pants, or colorful patchwork denim and layered cropped cardigans or oversized button-ups. Accessorize with chunky jewelry, bucket hats, or mini bags in bright hues. For footwear, chunky sweaters or platform sandals add the perfect touch of Lizzie-inspired whimsy. Don’t forget to embrace quirky textures like metallics or faux-fur because, in Lizzie’s world, more is definitely more.
Riley & Chloe Carlson
So Little Time
Featuring the Olsen twins is a no brainer, but So Little Time is a dark horse. In So Little Time, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen became the poster girls for laid-back California style. Their slip dresses, flared jeans, oversized knits, and tousled hair set the tone for everything I wanted to be in 8th and 9th grade. Their fashion felt aspirational yet attainable - a dreamy combo of bohemian and polished that influenced countless teen closets. And who could forget this is at the time of their Walmart clothing line which was made of pieces exactly like those worn on the show. Obviously it was the only time I dared to buy clothing at Walmart, ha.
Luxe West Coast Minimalism
Recreate the Olsen Twins California-cool look with oversized knits, slip skirts, and wide-leg pants in neutral tones. Add a modern twist with structured leather bags or chunky sandals. For a polished finish, mix in gold jewelry and sleek, square-toe boots.
Kelly Taylor
Beverly Hills 90210
Growing up, Beverly Hills 90210 was the show to watch in our house. Despite, arguably being far too young and my crush on Luke Perry setting me up for utterly disastrous taste in men, my mom made it peak mother/daughter time. There is much to be said about all of the style from the show, but Kelly Taylor embodied ‘90s Beverly Hills glam. Her wardrobe was a mix of bodcon dresses, blazers with shoulder pads, and casual yet luxe pieces. Her style taught us that the girl next door could also be the chicest in the room, blending relatable and aspirational effortlessly.
Glamorous Minimalism for Everyday
Incorporate Kelly’s Beverly Hills chic into 2024 by embracing body-skimming knit dresses, tailored blazers, and polished separates. Add statement pieces like a bold gold cuff or structured leather bag for a luxe touch. Elevate casual looks with sleek white sneakers or heeled mules.
Marissa Cooper
The O.C.
If Marissa Cooper was wearing it, high school era Nicole was eyeing it. Marissa Cooper’s style captured the affluent yet slightly rebellious Newport Beach aesthetic, something I identified with (minus the beach of course). From crisp white blazers to boho dresses layered over tanks, Marissa balanced preppy and edgy like no one else. While low-rise jeans are the enemy, there were plenty of incredible style moments. She made it cool to look effortlessly put together, even during the best meltdown by the ocean.
Coastal Preppy Meets Effortless Edge
Marissa’s style translates pretty well today with the return of the aughts trends. Tailored white blazers, nautical-inspired knits, and flowy maxi dresses are everywhere. Update her boho aesthetic with midi dresses layered under cropped denim jackets or modern trench coats. Finish the look with strappy sandals or minimalist sneakers.
Mary Richards
The Mary Tyler Moore Show
This one may seem out of left field, but I have always loved classic television, and Mary Richards was one of my main gals. She was a trailblazer and while the show straddled progressiveness with the eras need for a constant reminder of family values, the female characters dealt with many real issues that women faced - and still face today. Mary Richards redefined what it meant to dress for work in the ‘70s. Her closet was filled with wide-leg trousers, knit turtlenecks, and bold prints that screamed independence and modernity. Mary’s fashion wasn’t just stylish; it was empowering. She made pantsuits chic and showed that you could be taken seriously while still looking fabulous.
Polished Power Dressing
Channeling Mary Richards now means pivoting to a more modern take on her classics. Try oversized blazers, wide-leg trousers, and turtlenecks in neutrals or jewel tones. Opt for monochromatic suits or mix in contemporary prints like checks or pinstripes. Elevate her iconic flats to chic loafers or pointed-toe boots for an extra bit of edge.
Rachel Green
Friends
9 times out of 10 you’ll see me roll my eyes when someone brings up ‘The Rachel’ but I will give credit where credit is due. Rachel Green’s fashion evolution mirrored her character’s growth - from waitress in an apron to Ralph Lauren executive. She made plaid mini skirts, slip dresses, and chunky sweaters look aspirational. For as much as I eye roll, The “Rachel” cut was as much of a style moment as her iconic turtleneck and pleated skirt combinations. Rachel taught us that looking effortless actually takes some effort, but it’s always worth it.
Modern Minimalism Meets Cool Girl Edge
To channel Rachel’s style today, lean into tailored separates with a twist. Think cropped blazers paired with high-waisted trousers, ribbed knit dresses, or chunky loafers. Keep the plaid mini skirts or upgrade to leather or faux leather, and don’t forget a structured tote bag to complete the look.
Kelly Kapowski
Saved By the Bell
Kelly Kapowski was a ‘90s teen dream. Her wardrobe was literally a masterclass in ‘90s cool from Saved By the Bell straight through Saved By the Bell: The College Years. That Gen X vibe was truly chef’s kiss. From high-waisted jeans and crop tops to floral mini dresses - she epitomized the carefree California girl. Her looks balanced flirty and approachable, inspiring a wave of scrunchies, neon, and denim jackets that defined a generation. I would know. I had plenty.
Playful Nostalgia with a Twist
Bring Kelly’s carefree ‘90s vibe into today with high-waisted straight leg jeans paired with cropped cardigans and tees. For a flirty touch, go for floral slip dresses with chunky sneakers or ankle boots. Scrunchies are back in a big way, so add one for a nostalgic yet on-trend accessory.
Fran Fine
The Nanny
Obviously growing up using Fran Fine as style inspo wasn’t exactly possible or age appropriate (give or take a look or two from below). Fran brought designer labels and over-the-top prints to prime time. Everything from Moschino suits to sequins. She turned bold fashion into her signature, proving that being a bit daring doesn’t mean sacrificing sophistication. Fran reminded us to have fun with fashion - because why blend in when you can stand out?
Maximalist Glam with Modern Sophistication
Incorporate Fran’s bold glamour into your wardrobe with matching sets in vibrant patterns. Lean into faux-fur accents on coats or collars and don’t forget the platform heels. For a more understated nod, choose structured mini dresses with playful prints and designer-inspired belts.
Buffy Summers
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Buffy Summers was the baddest chick around. She managed to stake vampires while rocking leather jackets, knee-high boots, and spaghetti-strap tops. Her edgy-meets-girly aesthetic perfectly captured the angst of the late ‘90s and the early 2000s. Her style reminded us that you can be strong, feminine, and fashionable all at once.
Capturing Edgy Femininity
Bringing Buffy Summer’s look into 2024 (nearly 2025), means mixing edgy and girly with leather jackets, fitted midi skirts, and knee-high boots. Pair ribbed tank tops with pleated skirts or dark denim for casual yet cool vibe. Accessorize with dainty chokers or layered necklaces for a subtle, rebellious touch.
