In recent years, there has been an increased focus on the fashion choice of television stars in North America. From the red carpets of award ceremonies to their everyday looks, the fashion influence of television stars is slowly overtaking those of traditional Hollywood celebrities. We take a look at the new trends set by North American TV stars, and ask whether they are truly ushering in a new era of fashion.
1. Breaking Down TV’s Biggest Fashions
There’s no denying TV has an enviable collection of style influences. From large-scale period dramas to cult-classic comedies, each show brings unique design elements that capture the characters and demand attention.
From the start, the influence of TV fashion across the decades has been far-reaching and undeniable. In the 1960s & 70s, the glamour of characters like Scarlett O’Hara, Mary & Rhoda, and the Brady Bunch all inspired countless costume changes. Today, many of television’s fashion statements aren’t relegated to the big screen – they have become veritable pop culture icons.
Take a look at some of the most iconic looks:
- Suits: Don Draper’s crisp suit in Mad Men ridden with cigarette smoke and whiskey stains harnesses a level of autonomic masculinity, while Riverdale’s Southside Serpents Jughead Jones steeps his style onslaught of leather jackets and plaid shirts in an effortless disarray of chic-dressing.
- The Everyday: In Friends, Rachel Green’s hand-me-down skirt suit and knee-high boots reveal a sartorial elegance that builds on the idea of “the everyday.” On The Office, Michael Scott’s signature candy-apple red dress shirt embraces a bright and bubbly attitude reflective of his Ross-monikered character.
- The Classy & Retro: The bold hues of the sexpot Samantha Jones’ wardrobe in Sex & The City helped make a statement with cocktail attire – embracing flashy prints and spikes in the equally 90s-inspired sitcom, Full House, Stephanie Tanner makes sure to don an array of cutout tops and mini skirts that still are as much of a hit today as they were back then.
From these famous shows to those waiting to enter the spotlight, television fashion statements will continue to assert its undeniable influence on what’s in vogue. The bravado, line-blurring, and timeless stature of big-screen fashion is everything that makes it beloved and long-lasting.
2. Exploring North American TV Style Icons
North America has produced a plethora of TV-style icons that have led the way in setting the fashion trends. From Carrie Bradshaw in ‘Sex and the City’ to Joan from ‘Mad Men’, these characters have provided an inspiration to millions of viewers, making their look imitable and desirable.
Carrie Bradshaw in ‘Sex and the City’
Sarah Jessica Parker’s character Carrie Bradshaw remains an absolute icon of style; her sartorial adventures in New York City are the stuff of legend. The fashionista’s wardrobe went through a number of incredible evolutions that spanned the show’s 10-year run. But no matter what her look, she was always a trendsetter.
Roberta Flack from ‘In Living Color’
David Alan Grier unfailingly portrayed Roberta Flack in the ’90s sketch comedy show ‘In Living Color’. Roberta’s often outrageous outfits earned her a spot amongst the country’s style icons. From her ombre hair, bright colors, and exaggerated accessories, Roberta always turned heads.
Diane Chambers in ‘Cheers’
The late ’80s and early ’90s was the era of preppy looks, and Diane Chambers from ‘Cheers’ represented them all. The cocktail waitress and later lawyer was a preppy style icon due to her classic wardrobe staples and timeless silhouettes. Her looks were neatly tailored and polished, often featuring muted colors, vests, and pearls.
Joan from ‘Mad Men’
Christina Hendricks’ character of Joan Holloway kicked off the trend of 1960s elegant fashion. The classic mod-style look of the time featured bold colors and sculptural silhouettes. Her slim fit silhouettes, chic turtlenecks, and bold accessories are just some of the things that have made her a timeless style icon.
- Carrie Bradshaw in ‘Sex and the City’
- Roberta Flack from ‘In Living Color’
- Diane Chambers in ‘Cheers’
- Joan from ‘Mad Men’
3. Captivating the Audience Through Style
When it comes to captivating your audience, style plays a huge role. You must choose a look that speaks to your audience, one that’s easy to understand and that steps away from the boring status quo. Here are three tried and true ways to create a captivating style:
- Think Typography: The fonts you use can have a big impact on the way people view your message. Showcase your unique style by choosing a fun font that differs from the standard typeface.
- Consider Color Scheme: Colors evoke certain emotions, and choosing the right one can have a huge impact. Go bold, go classic, but make sure it’s sophisticated and fits in with the overall feel of your message.
- Make an Impact with Imagery: Never underestimate the power of a good photo. Captivating images can not only bring your brand to life, but add a layer of depth to whatever you’re saying. Pick photos that reflect your message and that get attention.
Your audience’s attention span is limited, so it’s important to make sure the style is representing what you’re trying to say. Utilize the power of visuals to give your message a unique and creative edge. Just because you’re using visuals doesn’t mean that you have to go all-out on bells and whistles. Sometimes it’s the simplest touches that create an unforgettable look.
Don’t be scared to try something new. Take risks with your design and think outside the box. Creating something that stands out in the crowd will give you more chances to draw attention to your message. Presentation is key, and your style should be fun and inviting.
Remember that the style you choose should always be in line with your message. Select something that speaks to the audience and sits in line with whatever you’re trying to say. With the right style, you can captivate your audience and really get your message across!
4. Redefining the Screen with Fashion
Nowadays, wearing fashion pieces onscreen has become an emerging trend. Whether it’s for a video call or a movie scene, screen fashion has come of age. Hollywood celebrities are already using their style to set the trend.
- Screen fashion isn’t only about being fashionable—it’s about making a statement.
- When celebrities are seen wearing stylish clothing onscreen, it sends a powerful message.
- Screen fashion has come to represent an important political statement, a way of expressing yourself, or simply making a fashion statement.
Technology has been a major influence. With the advent of new technologies such as virtual reality and high-definition cameras, clothing is now seen in a whole new light. Existing fabrics and materials are being remodeled and reworked to create brand new textures and looks. And with the help of technology, traditional fashion can be used to create a truly unique look.
High-end fashion is no longer just limited to the runway. Fashion designers are now creating bespoke looks to be used onscreen. This allows for bold shapes and textures to be seen in a completely different way.
Screen fashion is changing the way fashion is seen and perceived. Clothes are no longer just pieces of clothing, but powerful tools to make bold statements. Screen fashion is now becoming a trend for designers and celebrities who are using their style to speak to audiences around the world.
From the brush of Hollywood’s red carpet to the flash of the small screen, it is clear that North American television stars have a remarkable sense of fashion. Their unique style choices both represent their characters as well as provide their fans with fashion inspiration. No matter what the season or occasion, there is something to learn from the fashion superstars of North American television.
