“Gossip Girl” is more than just a television show. When it aired, it became a cultural phenomenon, blending high society drama with cutting-edge fashion that captured the zeitgeist of the late 2000s and beyond. The New York Times once referred to the series’ clothing as an amalgamation of “ritzy, preppy, and collegiate looks” with punk-inspired twists. Its costume designer, Eric Daman, elevated the show into a visual feast, drawing inspiration from icons like James Bond, Steve McQueen, and Oscar Wilde. The result? It is a luxurious, aspirational, and undeniably influential portrayal of youthful Manhattan privilege.
This blog examines the fashion legacy of “Gossip Girl”, as featured in The New York Times, encompassing everything from its original aesthetic to the reboot’s bold imaginings. By the end, you’ll not only understand the key elements that defined its style but also its lasting impact on real-world fashion trends.
Table of Contents
Key Fashion Elements and Influences
A Blend of Styles
The essence of “Gossip Girl” lies in the way it masterfully combines multiple aesthetics:
- Preppy and Collegiate: Plaid skirts, blazers, and headbands gave the show a distinctively academic edge.
- Punk-Influenced Sophistication: A hint of rebellion was evident in bold patterns, edgy accessories, and statement pieces, keeping the looks exciting and engaging.
Eric Daman, the creative visionary behind the costumes, constructed this unique identity by drawing from classic muses:
- James Bond: Sleek sophistication was reflected in the sharply tailored outfits of the characters.
- Steve McQueen: Rugged coolness appeared in the effortlessly chic casual wear.
- Oscar Wilde: A flair for the dramatic could be seen in vibrant colours, textures, and intricate patterns.
Luxury brands like Marc by Marc Jacobs, Chanel, and Ruffian were frequently featured, making high-end fashion a central pillar of the show. Every outfit was aspirational yet slightly subversive, reflecting the characters’ indulgent yet layered personalities.
Character-Specific Styles
The characters of “Gossip Girl” each had distinct fashion identities that were instantly recognisable.
Blair Waldorf
Blair’s wardrobe epitomised “timeless prep.” She was the queen of polished outfits with an emphasis on preppy staples:
- Style Characteristics: Think headbands, plaid skirts, tailored blazers, and lady-like accessories.
- Inspirations: Her look drew from Brooke Astor’s classic elegance and the confident style of His Girl Friday.
Blair’s ensembles reflected her meticulously curated approach to life. Every piece of clothing she wore was carefully chosen to project power, class, and elegance.
Serena van der Woodsen
Serena exuded “effortless elegance.” Her outfits struck a balance between high fashion and laid-back cool:
- Style Characteristics: Glamorous dresses, leather jackets, and tousled hair. Serena turned “messy chic” into an art form.
- Inspirations: Her free-spirited confidence was matched by a mix of casual and high-end items.
Her wardrobe encapsulated the effortless confidence of a true New Yorker, making Serena a fashion icon for viewers.
Chuck Bass
Chuck redefined menswear with his bold and daring fashion choices:
- Style Characteristics: Tailored suits, silk scarves, bow ties, and the occasional pop of colour or unexpected pattern.
- Inspirations: A blend of old-school refinement and modern panache.
Each of Chuck’s outfits reflected his individualistic streak, making him one of the best-dressed male characters on television.
Jenny Humphrey
Jenny’s style evolved dramatically over the show’s run. Early on, she championed “East Village Chic,” making the most of her limited resources:
- Style Characteristics: DIY details, layered outfits, and budget-conscious grunge.
- Inspirations: Her looks captured her creativity and desire to rise above her less privileged background.
Jenny’s fashion choices mirrored her character’s personal growth and struggle for identity, resonating deeply with teens and young adults.
Impact on Viewers
The original series influenced not only the fictional lives of its characters but also the real-world fashion choices of its audience. “Gossip Girl” sparked trends that infiltrated wardrobes globally:
- Accessories Boom: Headbands, statement jewellery, and oversized bows became must-have items.
- The resurgence of Preppy Styles: Luxury casual wear took centre stage in both high fashion and high street collections.
- Consumer Behaviour: Young viewers were inspired to splurge on designer items, creating a ripple effect in the retail industry.
The show’s website further extended this impact by making outfits easily identifiable and accessible, effectively turning passive viewers into active consumers of “Gossip Girl” fashion.
Fashion in the Reboot
In 2021, the “Gossip Girl” reboot brought a fresh perspective to the Upper East Side, emphasising inclusivity and modern sensibilities.
A Diverse Worldview
This time around, the cast reflected a wider variety of identities, and their wardrobes followed suit:
- Maximalist Street Style: The reboot shifted from flashy logos to value-driven style choices, such as sustainable brands and thoughtful accessories.
- Athleisure: Joggers, bike shorts, and sneakers made their way into the fashion rotation, reflecting contemporary trends.
- Gender Fluidity: Characters like Max Wolfe blurred traditional boundaries with androgynous silhouettes and fearless experimentation.
The reboot balanced paying homage to the original series while redefining fashion narratives for today’s more inclusive audience.
The Lasting Legacy of “Gossip Girl”
“Gossip Girl” stands as a landmark in television history, not just for its dramatic storytelling but also for its unparalleled influence on fashion. From Blair Waldorf’s preppy chic to Serena’s polished bohemian style, the original series and its reboot continue to shape how audiences perceive style.
Whether you’re team Blair, Serena, or Max, one thing is sure: “Gossip Girl” didn’t just chronicle fashion trends; it created them.
FAQs
What are the main fashion styles in “Gossip Girl”?
The show blends ritzy, preppy, collegiate looks with punk-inspired elements, featuring iconic brands like Chanel, Marc Jacobs, and Ruffian.
Who was the costume designer for the original “Gossip Girl”?
Eric Daman, who previously worked on “Sex and the City.”
What brands were frequently featured in the show?
Luxury designers like Christian Louboutin, Prada, and Chanel were staples, alongside emerging brands like Ruffian.
How has the fashion in the “Gossip Girl” reboot changed?
The reboot showcases a more diverse cast, with an emphasis on athleisure, gender-fluid fashion, and sustainability.
What impact did “Gossip Girl” have on fashion trends?
It popularised headbands, preppy styles, and designer casual wear, while influencing spending habits and retail trends globally.
