1. Buffy Summers
The protagonist of Buffy the Vampire Slayer is a true 90s icon—and not just for her casual super-strength. Buffy has an innate style that’s fun, bold, and memorable. Sure, she made a few faux pas (remember that waitress outfit?), but, no matter what, Buffy slayed, literally and figuratively, in whatever she wore.
2. Cookie Lyon
I haven’t even finished Empire, and I already wish I was half as cool as Cookie. She bucks the expectation that women in business should dress demurely, and she can overcome virtually any challenge while still looking great. Most importantly, Cookie dresses for herself, not for the people around her.
3. Mia Wallace
This Pulp Fiction powerhouse shows you don’t have to go overboard to make a statement. She sticks to solid-colored pants and shirts, offset by her trademark bold lip and the occasional, minimal accessory. Mia’s a perfect example of quick, easy, and edgy fashion.
4. Dorian Gray
The title character of Oscar Wilde’s novel isn’t exactly someone you should imitate all the way unless you feel alright about (spoiler alert) selling your soul and killing people. But no one can deny that the guy had style. Dorian typifies the “dandy” concept of 1800s Europe, which ushered into popularity the idea that appearance-conscious men aren’t lesser men for being so. Dorian and his creator, Oscar Wilde, exist as epitomes of luxury and aesthetic.
5. Suzy Bishop
The 2012 film Moonrise Kingdom focuses on teenage Suzy and her “husband”, Sam, as they come of age in 1960s Maine. From oxford shoes to berry-colored berets, Suzy experimented with her look while remaining relatively traditional. You don’t have to invent new things to prove yourself a trendsetter! Besides, who can resist trying blue eyeshadow after watching this movie?
6. Nyota Uhura
Besides making strides for black women in media, the Star Trek Communications officer pulled off her uniform with flair. Her hoop earrings and enviable hair complete the appearance of this smart, talented character. Zoe Saldana plays a younger version of Nyota in the recent movies, where the character still dominates the fashion sphere of the Enterprise.
7. Marisol Gonzales
Orange Is the New Black features several badass women, but “Flaca” deserves mention on this list for her incredible makeup—while simultaneously navigating prison. This girl wears and does what she wants, from eyeliner-drawn teardrops to her homemade skin-care kit. Flaca even altered and made her own clothes before her arrest.
8. Josie Packard
Josie, the resident woman of mystery (the one that’s still alive, that is) in Twin Peaks, pulls off simple but elegant combinations that set her apart from everyone else in town. She bounces between femme fatale and sweet, kind widow; and she looks great while doing so.
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