I speak for everyone when I say that Cher’s (Alicia Silverstone) wardrobe in Clueless (1995) was what we all dreamed of having. From the rotating clothing rails to the color-coordinated organization, there was a vibrant and sophisticated outfit for any possible occasion, such as stylish yet sporty gym class wear and jaw-droppingly stunning date night dresses, to name a few. It has inspired the likes of Hannah Montana (TV Series 2006-2011) and Sex and the City (TV Series 1998-2004) in the grandeur of their characters’ clothing collections. With over 60 unique costumes for Cher alone, Clueless set the standard for chicness in cinema.
It is simply unbelievable that it took over 20 years to create an app even remotely similar to the outfit generator computer seen at the beginning of the film. Applications like Indyx, Whering, and Stylebook all attempted to mimic what is seen here. Director Amy Heckerling clearly sets the standard that the heart of this film is its fashion through the introduction of this computer app.
With a tight costume budget, just under $200,000, costume designer Mona May was able to craft a luxury look and feel of the Clueless cast with less than a handful of pieces in the film actually being from designer names. May’s costuming of Cher is so intentional, becoming as important as Silverstone’s performance in building the character of Cher. Consistently, what might be seen as “overdressed” at every function, Cher’s determined and self-assured nature shines through in every article of clothing she wears. You can even see her character evolution through the subtle changes in her outfits.
While these looks were all the rage at the time of release, do they still hold up 30 years later? Here are my five favorite outfits that Cher dons in the movie that I would wear today.
1. Back-to-School Look
The most remembered of Cher’s looks, the yellow plaid two-piece ensemble designed by Jean Paul Gaultier, introduces her character in the most loud and proud way. It became everyone’s go-to Halloween costume and even prominently appeared in Iggy Azalea’s Fancy music video. This look has certified itself in the cinematic hall of fame and deserves its “icon” status.
2. Post Tai’s Makeover Look
Although we should be paying attention to Tai (Brittany Murphy) in this scene, you can’t help but admire Cher’s very studious attire with her Oxford shirt, sweater dress, and headband. Her looks often transcend one specific style, and this is a perfect example of her flipping to a more preppy vibe.
3. Workout Look
An underrated but amazing look is Cher’s argyle one-piece gym wear when she and Kai are following a TV workout routine. Complete with a spaghetti-strapped back and a messy ponytail, it is a sportswear I can imagine influencers and celebrities wearing today.
4. Party “Date” with Christian Look
In one of the other designer names attached to the project, Anna Sui styles Cher in the perfect partywear skin-tight white dress with a gorgeous sheer overshirt that leaves Josh (Paul Rudd) gasping for air after Cher hurries off with Christian (Justin Walker) to a party. Me too, Josh, me too.
5. Wedding Guest Look
This romantic baby pink dress jacket combination embraces the head-over-heels feeling of love that Cher is experiencing at the end of the film. The best dress to fight over a thrown flower bouquet with.
List Courtesy of Nandita Joshi
Feature Image Credit to Paramount Pictures
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