An Ode to Carrie Bradshaw: The “Sex and the City” Fashion Icon

Sarah Jessica Parker completely changed the fashion game in the ‘90s when she starred as Carrie Bradshaw in “Sex and the City” — a true drama classic of a young woman trying to pursue her dreams in the heart of New York City. You might know of “Sex and the City” from the show “The Carrie Diaries,” which tells the story of a version of Carrie as a young high school student. In “The Carrie Diaries,” Carrie shocked all of us with her fabulous wardrobe, mix and match of colors, patterns and her suburban-to-NYC transition. “Sex and the City” may have come out 20 years ago, but Carrie Bradshaw's memorable outfits have imprinted our wardrobes ever since. She does not shy away from being different and makes each outfit her own.


Ahead, we're going to present you with some of the most eye-stopping, tear-dropping outfits that will make or break your next New York City outfit! 

A Twist on Hamptons Attire

As we all know, the Hamptons evokes the essence of sophisticated, classic, plain dresses with beautiful gardens that overlook ocean fronts. But for Carrie Bradshaw, a visit to the millionaire's beach retreat was an opportunity for her to expand her horizons and let her cowgirl aspiration come to life. Despite wanting to fit in with the crowd in the Hamptons, Bradshaw definitely wanted to put her name out there as a girl who doesn't like to follow the rules of fashion. 

Here, Carrie is wearing a python print bandeau, a striped orange sarong and a cowboy hat. In the show, she is stunned by a guy who broke her heart, but being heartbroken doesn't stop her from sporting a killer outfit.

Wrong way or Right way to Wear a Belt

Behold, the La Sagrada Familia of Carrie Bradshaw's wacky outfits. There are so many fascinating elements at play in this look. It’s not a complete shock to walk around New York City and see the most outgoing apparel, but Bradshaw truly is a show-stopper and has challenged the fashion game by setting a high bar. 

Let’s start with the top — a cropped pink button-down shirt cut right along the bust line, layered over a white knotted undershirt. This was paired with a palm tree imprinted midi-skirt that sits low-waisted. Last but not least, the polka dot belt is an accessory component, as Bradshaw is wearing it high on her torso. Let's not forget her sculpture-like headband that perfectly matches the color coordination of the outfit. The belt placement is funky and weird, but at the same time, an ultra-modern piece that adds dimension.

The Tutu is Back!

Carrie Bradshaw plays around with her street style by incorporating a ballerina skirt in her daily style. A “Sex and the City” fanatic will recognize this look because it exemplifies Bradshaw's personality and the striking wardrobe she has created. The chokehold this outfit has on society is impeccable; everyone should be walking the streets of New York in this bold statement piece. 


The beautiful Sarah Jessica Parker is wearing a tiered tutu with a shining silver belt, a baby-pink tank top and strappy heels.

What Even are Knickerbockers?

Only Carrie Bradshaw can pull off wearing Knickerbockers, a form of men's baggy knee breeches that were popular in the 20th century is an iconic stylistic takeaway. She is sporting a matching black and white striped blazer coupled with striped knickerbockers and a white and blue striped tank. Bradshaw did not shy away from the power of stripes and social expectations for women by wearing a longer pair of shorts. She is a true inspiration for women. To complete the look, she wore white patent pumps and a newsboy hat, which — seriously — only she can pull off. 

We believe that Carrie Bradshaw will be the ultimate street style icon for years to come. While you haven't grasped the entirety of her wardrobe, there is so much more that will blow you away. Now, we recommend watching “Sex and the City” to get a feel for these outfits in action, but it certainly won’t hurt to try them out for yourself! 

Here are a few more of our favorite Carrie Bradshaw moments!

FashionShayla Smith