If there’s one thing that transcends time, it’s the allure of women who have captured hearts and minds as IT girls-icons who not only defined style but also shaped culture, exuding confidence and inspiring generations to embrace their unique identities. But what exactly is an IT girl?
An IT girl is more than a trendsetter; she is someone who embodies individuality, confidence, and timeless charm. She doesn’t just follow trends-she creates them, challenging societal norms and redefining beauty and culture. With that in mind, let’s journey through the decades to honour the most iconic IT girls, whose influence continues to inspire.
1920s: Clara Bow – The Original IT Girl
The IT girl phenomenon originated with Clara Bow, the American actress who became the quintessential “It Girl” of the 1920s. Known for her signature bob haircut and captivating gaze, Clara epitomized the bold, liberated woman of the Roaring Twenties. Her playful, daring style reflected a cultural shift toward independence and freedom of expression for women. Clara’s influence encouraged women to embrace more assertive femininity, laying the foundation for IT girls who would follow.
1950s: Marilyn Monroe – Glamour Epitomized
The 1950s belonged to Marilyn Monroe, whose beauty and sensuality cemented her status as a cultural phenomenon. With her golden blonde hair, sultry eyes, and iconic red lips, Marilyn embodied timeless glamour and self-assurance. Beyond her movie-star allure, Marilyn’s charm, humour, and confidence captivated audiences and inspired women to embrace their femininity unapologetically. (For a full picture of the IT girl’s evolution, one might also mention Jean Harlow, the 1930s star who was a blueprint for Marilyn’s signature look).
“I live to succeed, not to please you or anyone else.”
– Marilyn Monroe
1990s: Kate Moss – The Anti-Supermodel
In the 1990s, Kate Moss redefined beauty standards as the “anti-supermodel.” Her waifish frame, unkempt hair, and grunge-inspired style offered a raw authenticity that contrasted sharply with the polished glam of her predecessors. Kate’s effortlessly cool demeanour and rock star persona appealed to a generation that valued individuality over perfection. However, her influence wasn’t without controversy. Her promotion of “heroin chic” and statements like “nothing tastes as good as skinny feels” drew criticism for glamorizing unhealthy beauty standards. Despite this, her legacy endures as a symbol of confidence and rebellion, proving that IT girls aren’t bound by convention.
2000s: Paris Hilton – The Y2K Heiress
Paris Hilton reigned supreme in the early 2000s, embodying the maximalist Y2K aesthetic. From her head-to-toe pink outfits to her glittering nightlife escapades, Paris represented fun, luxury, and unapologetic self-expression. With catchphrases like “That’s hot,” she captured the spirit of the era and set the stage for today’s influencer culture, which celebrates individuality and flair. Paris showed the world that embracing your unique personality and having fun while doing it, can make you an icon.
2010s: Rihanna – The Rulebreaker
Rihanna dominated the 2010s, not only as a music sensation but also as a fashion and beauty trailblazer. Her fearless style—blending edgy streetwear with high fashion—made her a red-carpet standout, while her Fenty Beauty line redefined inclusivity in the beauty industry. With bold Met Gala looks and a groundbreaking makeup range that catered to all skin tones, Rihanna’s influence went beyond aesthetics, inspiring a new generation to break the rules and embrace their individuality.
2020s IT Girls: A New Era of Icons
Hailey Bieber – Mastering Elegant Street Style
Hailey Bieber has become a style icon of the 2020s with her effortlessly chic street style. Known for pairing oversized blazers, clean tailoring, and minimal accessories, Hailey’s look balances sophistication with approachability. Despite facing criticism and online hate, she has remained true to herself, proving that confidence and authenticity are at the heart of the IT girl appeal.
Bella Hadid – The Avant-Garde Visionary
Bella Hadid has captivated the fashion world with her daring, avant-garde style. From her love of vintage layering to her cowboy-inspired looks, Bella continuously pushes fashion boundaries. Beyond her style, Bella’s activism-particularly her support for Palestine has shown that IT girls can use their platforms for greater causes. Her boldness encourages Gen Z to embrace originality and fearlessness in both fashion and life.
Adriana Lima – The Timeless Bombshell
Adriana Lima has maintained her IT girl status by combining classic beauty with a commanding runway presence. Known for her piercing eyes and sultry confidence, Adriana’s enduring influence reminds us that elegance and sensuality are timeless. Despite facing criticism for her post-pregnancy weight gain, Adriana responded with grace, proving that IT girls define their own beauty standards.
IT Girls Teach Us About Confidence and Style
From Clara Bow’s pioneering boldness to Rihanna’s rule-breaking brilliance, each IT girl has shown us that true style begins with embracing who we are. Their stories remind us that the most iconic look we can wear is confidence. Whether you’re inspired by Hailey Bieber’s sleek minimalism, Marilyn Monroe’s timeless glamour, or Kate Moss’s rebellious edge, remember the secret to being an IT girl is simple; be unapologetically you.