When ‘Clueless’ hit theaters in 1995, its fashion sense was a breath of fresh air amidst the grunge era’s murky trends. Costume designer Mona May drew inspiration from her childhood in India and European sensibilities to create bold, iconic looks for Cher Horowitz and her friends.
Cher’s Back-to-School Ensemble
May started with the Catholic schoolgirl uniform but added a twist by using bright colors and statement pieces. The yellow Jean Paul Gaultier suit is still a lasting influence today, as seen in recent fashion collections.
Cher’s First-Date Dress
The perfect body-hugging dress, often described as “unfashionable” at the time, has become timeless. Its versatility allows it to be dressed up or down, making it a wardrobe staple.
Cher’s Layered Look
A muted color palette and classic white shirt make this look enduringly chic. The oversized blouse with ruffles is now a staple in many women’s wardrobes.
Dionne’s Photo-Shoot Outfit
Stacey Dash’s burgundy dress, complete with stretch velvet and white cuffs, was inspired by French fashion. Its influence can still be seen today in women around the world who claim it changed their lives.
Matching Trends
May believed that simple, matching outfits were beautiful. This approach has influenced modern fashion, with designers incorporating similar elements into their collections.
Amber’s Take on Knits
The ‘Clueless’ style of mixing high and low fashion is still popular today, thanks to Amber’s inspiration from Pippi Longstocking.
Christian and Cher’s Mall Garb
Justin Walker’s period-inspired look has become a classic. The sage green minidress, with empire waist and puffy sleeves, remains a timeless piece in many women’s wardrobes.
Tai’s School Dance Outfit
Brittany Murphy’s grungy yet feminine look has inspired future generations of actresses and fashion enthusiasts alike.
The ‘Clueless’ legacy lives on through its bold, iconic style. Thirty years after its release, the film continues to influence fashion trends, inspiring designers to create timeless pieces that make women feel confident and stylish.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/16/movies/clueless-movie-fashion-30th-anniversary.html