An Ode to Carrie Bradshaw’s Outfits

Whether you’ve been watching Sex and the City for years, binged it all summer on Netflix, or have simply followed the hype behind the beloved show on socials, one thing is for certain: We all wish we had Carrie Bradshaw’s closet. While somehow Carrie can miraculously always afford Manolo’s on a writer’s salary, that unfortunately hasn’t been my experience. This article aims to break down Carrie’s most iconic looks, and help you recreate them this fall on a budget.

The Ballerina Skirt

Starting out with a bang, Carrie shows us all how to embody ballet core, one of the falls hottest aesthetics (did you know SJP used to be a ballerina?). Sex and the City costume designer, Patricia Fields, actually mentions she found the iconic white tulle skirt in a discount bin at a fashion showroom. She pairs the statement skirt with a baby pink tank, and a pair of statement heels, creating the perfect Carrie ensemble. It's no shock this outfit is featured in the credits of every episode, as it says Carrie like no other. To recreate this look at home, simply pair a light tulle skirt with a plain tank top, and a sandal heel.

The Naked Dress

The only thing sexier than the boyfriend shirt? The naked dress. We all have one. That little slip that was meant to go under something else? Think again. Carrie shows us how to rock wearing your own skin, and not much else … Luckily, if you haven’t yet purchased your version of the nothing dress, or are in a new need of a new one, I have a dupe for you, and it's under $50.

The Classic Crop Top

She may be at a bar, but she looks runway ready in this striped Prada skirt, black long sleeve crop, and pointed toe heels. Carrie shows us how to rock this casual fall friendly look that can be dressed up or down. It is beyond easy to replicate with a black top and striped midi skirt of your own. Make sure to style it with some of your favorite accessories to complete the outfit, just like Carrie’s belt bag and hat.

A Taste of Pat

Up next, stylist Patricia Fields shows us all how to mis-match the right way, styling Carrie in her own personal jacket. In season 3, Carrie steps out to watch Aiden, and of course, she looks fabulous while doing it. Sometimes, the best outfits are the ones we throw together fast. Fields mentions that while this look wasn’t super methodical, it resembles Pat’s personal style with Carrie's special touch. This outfit is perfect for the Philadelphia fall, and can be recreated with a patchwork trench, a polka dot blouse, and a pair of trousers.

The Boyfriend Shirt

In season 3, Carrie shows us her take on the boyfriend shirt. Whether you’ve been staring at your ex’s button down collecting dust at the back of your closet, or have awkwardly asked your father if you can “borrow his shirt for a party” (I have…) an oversized men’s shirt somehow never fails to make a woman feel her sexiest. Carrie compliments her rolled out of bed look with a leather Hermes belt, contrasting her low effort look, with a high fashion staple. The boyfriend shirt is beyond simple to recreate, and never goes out of style, so try it out this fall! Brandy Melville, and Revolve currently have good belt choices, but a vintage belt is always a win and usually inexpensive.

A Sexy Escape

Have you ever had to dress for dinner in Abu Dhabi with your married ex-fiance? Me neither. But nonetheless, in the second movie, Bradshaw shows us you really can make any occasion a fashionable one with this gorgeous embellished silk maxi dress, brown strappy sandal heels, a long brown cardigan, and a black clutch. While this look may not be a Philadelphia staple, it could definitely be a stunning choice for a special event or vacation. Rat and Boa has great flowy options for every beach vacation.

The Green Satin Skirt

In season 4, Carrie brings us a piece of Vivenne Westwood heaven: THE green satin mini skirt. This skirt was brought to life by Bradshaw, and has since been redone and reimagined time and time again. Recently, fashion icon Zendaya offered an ode to this look during her Challengers press tour, which can be seen alone. While some people opt to DIY the white detailing on the skirt, the look can definitely still be recreated with a plain white button down, black bra, and green satin mini skirt. Pair with a pink stiletto and green mini bag, and this look will be yours.

The Dancer Look

While simple, I personally love this look from Carrie. She again brings her ballerina background into this look with an embellished pink maxi skirt, and a plain white tank. While simple, this look is timeless and versatile, and it’s not hard to find at home. All you need for this outfit is a white spaghetti strap tank, and a long pink skirt.

While we may not all have the closet space or the shoe collection of Carrie Bradshaw, what we can do is channel her fearless sense of style in our own lives. Whether it’s a bold print, a fabulous pair of heels, or simply the confidence to be unapologetically ourselves, these tips are just the beginning. After all, fashion isn’t just about what we wear—it’s about how we carry ourselves. So here's to embracing your inner Carrie, and letting your style tell your story, one fabulous outfit at a time.

Featured Image Courtesy of Elle