For years, costume choices have impacted how characters’ legacies are carried on to the future. Trends have been born and shared through the characters we’ve seen on screen. And while many fashion folk will refer to Rachel Green or Carrie Bradshaw as TV’s best dressed, they end up erasing Black creatives who have been the trendsetters of every generation. Spanning decades of entertainment, Black characters have given us the best of fashion, from classic sitcoms to heavy-hitting dramas. Actresses such as Issa Rae, Karyn Parsons, and Tracee Ellis Ross have not only entertained their audiences in their roles, but they’ve also inspired many with their characters’ striking ensembles.
Below, look at 10 iconic style moments from Black characters in TV and Movies.
The entirety of Fresh Prince of Bel-Air consisted of striking fashion moments, but Hilary Banks’s looks stand out the most. Every outfit relayed confidence with her streamlined and color-coordinated aesthetic. All the elements of Banks’s style remain on the trending list today, from strong and tailored suiting to dramatic color pairings.
A dress as classy as Banks herself.
’80s-inspired earrings are a must for recreating Banks’s signature style.
Knee-high boots never go out of style.
While, yes, Raven Baxter could see in the future, we think her best skill was in fact her fashion sense. Considering that story-wise she made most of her clothing, we’re deeply impressed. Her fur collars, printed jackets, and bedazzled jeans have taken up permanent space in our brains. And with the Y2K renaissance still running among Gen Z, elements of Baxter’s style still serve as inspiration.
Raven always had quirky accessories, so this bag is right up her alley.
Prints were very much a part of Baxter’s signature look.
The wash of these jeans feel very reminiscent of the aughts.
While Cher Horowitz does indeed have a fabulous wardrobe, we think Dionne’s looks are worthy of just as much attention, if not more. After all, just take a look at that hat. If the movie didn’t provide enough looks for you to peruse, the spin-off TV show is filled with even more ’90s goodness.
The key to attaining Davenport’s “bougie” energy lies in having preppy staples on hand.
Pleated mini skirts are an essential part of the aesthetic.
Opting for a ’90s-inspired bag shape is a must.
Yara Shahidi has major sartorial strength both off-screen and on-screen. Her Grown-ish character is almost always making a statement in bold prints, saturated shades, and layers galore. Despite the questionable decisions her character might make, she’ll always make the right choices in the style department. She continuously proves that she’s willing to experiment with her look and aesthetic.
Main character energy, attained.
We can picture Johnson loving this swimsuit.
Another great piece from a Black-Owned brand!
When Insecure first was released in 2016, it quickly became a fan favorite for its authentic storytelling. Stylist and costume designer Shiona Turni (also a fan favorite, but in the fashion industry) brought each character to life, including Isa, with realistic takes on modern-day Los Angeles wardrobe. Throughout the seasons, Isa’s fashion sense sees incredible shifts as her character evolves. While her character prefers comfort, she moves into more put-together looks with her personality shining through each.
Now, here’s a blazer that embodies Dee stepping into her “grown” era.
Staples are a must-have on (and off) the screen.
Casual jeans are an essential part of Dee’s style throughout the series.
Moesha shows effortless ’90s style (that’s more on-trend than ever) and continuously celebrated black designers. Brandy’s character Moesha had multiple looks to love which featured micro bags, monochromatic color schemes, and next-level layering.
So pretty.
Mitchell was never one to shy away from hair accessories.
Mitchell loves her layers.
Olivia Pope is strong-hearted, bold, and determined to get what she wants. If anything, her clothing exudes the same energy. Pope’s style energy is powerful, from sleek trench coats to full Prada suits.
The white coat is an essential part of Pope’s wardrobe.
Pope was always workin’ in Prada.
Modern-day Pope would love The Row.
When we asked others on who was the best dressed character on Girlfriends, themajority answered with Toni. We get it. How can one not be considered the best when their top looks include vintage Jean Paul Gaultier?
Toni Childs loved her turtlenecks.
We already know that Childs would have lost her cool over new Ferragamo collections.
Fun fact: Hermés was one of the first luxury fashion houses to regularly loan bags to the show, Girlfriends.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated by Jasmine Fox-Suliaman.
