Some characters transcend the films and television shows in which they appear. Decades later, people are still inspired by the way they dress, so some styles are attributed to them. Their wardrobes also launched trends and paved the way for fashion careers. Let’s take a look back at the 9 on-screen characters who became style icons.
8. Tyler Durden – Fight Club (1999)
Yes, Brad Pitt’s alter ego made thrift store chic desirable to men. We’re talking about leather jackets, loud printed shirts, and tinted aviators. Did we even mention the disheveled hair? It forms an anti-establishment aesthetic that turned into mainstream fashion. You see, Tyler’s wardrobe rejected consumerism, but the character still looks cool enough.
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7. Carrie Bradshaw – S*x and the City (1998-2004)
Sarah Jessica Parker’s columnist character turned New York City into a runway. That tutu with tank tops and nameplate necklaces became huge. Women also mixed vintage with couture, as Carrie does. And we could never forget about the shoes, which became the focal point of the outfit. Costume designer Patricia Field created a somewhat impractical look that Carrie could definitely pull off.
6. James Bond – Various Films (1962-Present)
James Bond established the template for masculine elegance. Whether it’s Sean Connery’s tailored suits or Daniel Craig’s Tom Ford wardrobe, we have to give it to the amazing styling. We’re talking about crisp white shirts, slim ties, fitted tuxedos, and luxury watches. This has influenced a generation of men’s formalwear.
5. Mia Wallace – Pulp Fiction (1994)
Mia Wallace created the most recognizable look that people still dress up in for Halloween. It’s the white button-down shirt, black cropped pants, and that razor-sharp bob haircut. This is pared down with the aesthetic influences of the ‘90s minimalism, which proved that you don’t need an elaborate costume to create an iconic look.
4. Patrick Bateman – American Psycho (2000)
Christian Bale’s Wall Street character made obsessive grooming and designer labels a satirical subject. You see, the character has a meticulous attention to detail, particularly in regards to brands and business card fronts that convey high status. We’re talking about his designer-fitted suits, watches, and grooming routine.
3. Cher Horowitz – Clueless (1995)
Alicia Silverstone’s Beverly Hills teenager character made the preppy style fun. Yup, those are the days of plaid skirts, knee-high socks, and cropped blazers like that iconic yellow plaid suits. Designer Mona May’s costume was inspired by the mid-’90s excess but timeless vision for high school fashion. This has inspired Halloween costumes and fashion editorials.
2. The Dude – The Big Lebowski (1998)
Jeff Bridges’ antihero made loungewear a lifestyle choice. Yup, that’s the ratty cardigan, rumpled t-shirts, and baggy shorts for you. Did we even mention the iconic Jellies sandals? The Dude proved that you can still pull off an iconic fashion look from something we wear at home. His wardrobe has also inspired athleisure trends.
1. Holly Golightly – Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)
It’s not a style icons list without Holly Golightly from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. Actress Audrey Hepburn’s look became the fashion image of cinema history, cementing a classic staple that every woman must have in their wardrobe. We’re talking about the little black dress, of course. The character completed the look with oversized sunglasses and a pearl necklace. It’s all thanks to the designer Hubert de Givenchy, who created a simple yet chic look that still resonates today.
