I'll never forget the first time I saw an ad for Sex and the City. It was 1998, and I was 10. I'd grabbed a magazine on my dad's bed (child of divorce here), and on the back was the image of Sarah Jessica Parker naked (gasp!), save for a laptop covering her holy parts against a New York skyscraper backdrop. "Sex" (gasp, gasp!) is obviously in the title as well, which I'm sure is why this moment was so vividly burned into my little brain. And while initially I took note of Sex and the City for what SJP wasn't wearing, Carrie Bradshaw's looks have now become so iconic, 25 years after the show first premiered, I'm still fawning over them.
Nineties and early aughts style doesn't appear to be going anywhere. In fact, its appeal only seems to be getting stronger (cue capri pants' recent resurgence). In my humble opinion, the era owes its prevalence in the cultural zeitgeist in large part to SATC's impeccable stylist, Patricia Field, who over and over again outfitted Carrie in showstopping looks that have clearly stood the test of time. From slip dresses to pageboy caps, Carrie's style was always a bit unpredictable, which is probably why it's still exciting and enviable today.
Whether minimalist or over the top, her looks were inspiring. I've narrowed them down to five of my favorite Carrie outfits just below, as well as the key pieces you need to get the look. What's more? They're all under $100. Manolos all around!
Asymmetric Dress
Arguably one of Carrie's most recognizable looks, this floral midi dress with an asymmetric cut is quintessential early aughts.
Hot Pants
What can I say? Carrie loved a hot pant. While they're not for the faint of heart, I love the way they're styled with a knee-length coat here.
Leather Blazer
All the ladies have enviable outerwear here, but I'm partial to Miranda's and Carrie's leather looks. The tan color of Carrie's is particularly unexpected.
Strappy Sandals
We all know Carrie's a shoe fanatic, and while she doesn't discriminate, more often than not she was in statement-making strappy sandals.
Satin Slip Dress
If '90s minimalism could be summed up in a dress, this would be it. In my opinion, it doesn't get any better.
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