“and just like that…” How Sex and the City Stays Relevant 26 Years Later
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As charming as the classic city of Athens, Georgia can be—full of eclectic boutiques and bustling nightlife—as a fashion student, I find myself constantly seeking style inspiration through the glamorous world of Carrie Bradshaw. Yes, I'm talking about none other than the iconic series that captured the essence of New York City like no other: "Sex and the City.” For six fabulous seasons, Carrie and her fabulous friends—Samantha, Charlotte, and Miranda—dazzled our screens with their wit, charm, and, most importantly, their impeccable sense of style. From the cobblestone streets of the West Village to the glittering lights of Fifth Avenue, their fashion choices not only defined an era but also left an undeniable mark on the world of haute couture and pop culture.
The impact of "Sex and the City" on fashion and culture is simply unparalleled. Each episode is a visual feast, showcasing leading fashion brands like Prada, Manolo Blahnik, and Versace, and daring trends from avant-garde ensembles to classic chic. And oh, how those trends continue to influence the fashion landscape to this day!
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Let's take a stroll down memory lane, shall we? Who can forget Carrie's iconic little black (okay, technically charcoal) dress moment in season 2, episode 15? Yes, it’s a simple look, yet you probably know exactly which one I’m talking about! This classic A-line silhouette and muscle tee neckline are inspiring several looks today, such as the Reformation Mayve Knit Dress and this little Peppermayo number. Sure, one could argue that the concept of the Little Black Dress has been around long before Carrie Bradshaw wore them. To that, I say: no one put the LBD on the map quite like she did.
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No one respects a woman’s right to shoes like Carrie Bradshaw. And no one loves her Manolos quite like her either. In a world that constantly pestered her to clean out her closet and make room for “real life”— marriage, having kids, and abandoning her single lifestyle—Carrie never cracked under pressure. Carrie’s undying loyalty to her Manolos (all 200 of them) have certainly influenced the fashion world, her name basically synonymous with the brand itself. Now, as we move into summer, they're on the wishlist of every fashionable It Girl out there, especially the viral pair accessorized with lilies.
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Though she would probably argue otherwise, Carrie wasn’t the only star of the show. All the leading ladies were always styled in the most authentic, jealousy-inducing pieces that perfectly complemented their personalities. Let’s not overlook Samantha's bold and fearless approach to fashion, with her body-hugging dresses and statement accessories that exuded confidence and sexuality. Samantha was always dressed for the occasion, like her Dorothy-inspired two-piece red gingham set from season 3, episode 15. Honestly, it’s one of my favorite looks from the show—playful, sexy, and summery, right down to the pigtails! Red gingham sets are popping up everywhere, all across town, as we approach summer picnic days. Many of them definitely took notes from Samantha: like this Urban Outfitters set, for example.
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From the resurgence of 90s nostalgia to the revival of statement accessories, the “Sex and the City” has undeniably impacted contemporary fashion. I could sit here for hours meticulously listing every outfit worn by myself and my fabulous friends, but why bother when I can simply tell you to watch the damn thing? Trust me, you and your closet won’t regret it. Your wallet? Maybe not so much.
So as I click “next episode” on my Roku TV, I propose a toast to "Sex and the City," a timeless ode to fashion, friendship, and the fabulousness of life in the big city. Taking us through the much relatable ups and downs of relationships and careers, Carrie and her squad remind us that true style isn't just about what you wear. It's about confidence, self-love, and the courage to be unapologetically yourself.
As Samantha would say, “If I worried about what every bitch in New York was saying about me, I’d never leave the house.”
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Strike out,
Nicole Moreno
Editor: Grace Maneein
Athens