The Carrie Effect: Dressing Outside the Lines
For anyone who’s watched Sex and the City, one thing is impossible to ignore: Carrie Bradshaw’s fearless fashion sense. She breaks just about every rule in fashion: clashing colors, mixing patterns, and overdressing at every opportunity.
Whether she’s strutting down a Manhattan sidewalk in a daring crop top or eating takeout in a floor-length gown, Carrie Bradshaw always manages to look effortlessly chic. So how does someone who seemingly defies fashion law become one of the most iconic fashion muses of all time?
After conducting extensive research (aka binge-watching all six seasons of Sex and the City), I’ve broken down the Carrie aesthetic into a few simple, wearable rules.
Heels First, Clothes Second
If Carrie taught us anything, it’s that shoes are never just an accessory – they’re the foundation. She often starts with the perfect pair of Manolo Blahniks and builds the rest of her look around the shoes. While an entire collection of Manolo Blahniks might not be in the cards for the average college budget, the Carrie energy is still within reach. Opt for heels that are colorful, patterned, and a little impractical.
Bottoms Up!
Once you have the shoes, it’s time to build from the bottom up. Carrie’s most iconic looks often feature statement skirts: voluminous tulle, brightly colored midis, or bold patterns that demand attention.
But again, for an active college student, skirts aren’t always practical. For a more casual spin, try loose-fitting capris or Bermuda shorts. Since these pieces are more relaxed than her usual skirt, Carrie always styles them with purpose (and heels).
Breaking the Rules
While most people would choose one statement piece to center their outfit around, Carrie isn’t afraid to pair her bold skirts with equally eye-catching tops, following her signature “clashing but cohesive” style. Her secret? Balance. If your bottom half is billowy, keep it fitted on top– and vice versa. Once you’ve nailed the silhouette, have fun with it. Think bright hues, bold prints, sheer blouses, and bold bras that are meant to be seen. Carrie wears anything that screams fun, sexy, and fearless. If your outfit feels a little over the top, you’re doing it right.
Layer Loudly
When the weather gets cold, it’s easy to feel like our outfits can’t shine. Carrie Bradshaw proves us all wrong. She keeps it stylish by throwing on bold, fitted blazers or fabulous faux furs that give drama and glamour. Our outerwear should cover our skin, not our style.
Top it all off (literally) with a newsboy cap for a casual look or an extravagant hat for fancier nights. Carrie dresses from head to toe, and she owns each piece with confidence.
The Carrie Effect
Carrie Bradshaw is the ultimate reminder that style isn’t about fitting in – it’s about standing out. You can express your personality, take risks, and still be chic. So go ahead—throw on a tutu for no reason. Wear the heels to class. If there’s one rule that Carrie follows, it’s that fashion should always be fun.
Photos from InStyle, Harper’s Bazaar, & Refinery 29