The 90s Had Cher; We Have Barbie: But They Are Almost The Same
In terms of fashion-forward characters, few hold so much power as Cher Horowitz from ''Clueless''. It was in 1994 that Amy Heckerling casted Alicia Silverstone, and accompanied by Mona May,costume designer of the film,made the stylish protagonist be responsible for dictating every fashion trend during the 90s. We all know how that went. Heckerling's movie became a typical must-watch to every fashionista around the corner, and the characters’ senses of style left a lasting impact in cinematographic, fashion and entertainment industries. Cher, though, was the highlight of the entire project. Her vivid yellow plaid set from Dolce & Gabbana exuded the timelessness of her style, where high school was way more than uniforms,but so a welcoming space to high fashion.
With luxurious fashion twisted into a classic high school girl uniform, the style was ahead of its time, and even in the far future, remains as a favorite of the audience. Not only seen as Halloween’s costumes every year, the popular look is also present in runways in all seasons,converted to each designer’s piece of choice, whether it being skirts,pants,shirts,coats or dresses. The checkered pattern is seen everywhere. From Burberry to Jean Paul Gaultier, several brands demonstrated the film's strong and precise impact on fashion that is notable until today through the usage of the iconic motif. And when sold in the color’s combination of yellow and black, our minds instantly led us to Cher Horowitz casually in a debate at her school.
Even though the most outstanding look was the Dolce plaid one, ''Clueless'' principal figure had an impressive number of others. During one hour and a half,lavish pieces from fancy labels are featured in the entertaining teenage film that was an adaptation of Jane Austen novel “Emma”. Different from the regency-era style, Cher’s was way more naive,wearing brands such as Alaïa, Calvin klein and Dolce & Gabbana. And meanwhile the “Clueless” protagonist wears those,Barbie wears Chanel. If the 90s had Cher Horowitz, 2000s upwards babes have Barbie.
Just as those past times, 2023 was gifted with Greta Gerwig’s movie Barbie, where together with Jacqueline Durray, Margot Robbie and a diverse cast made it the fashion movie of the decade. And what a pink one! From Barbie core trends to all-pink collections – salut Valentino! – Barbie had a similar effect regarding the 90s defended movie. Similarities between both films is what there is no lack of. Meanwhile Barbie has their players to dress her up, Cher gives the task to the most-wanted-computer-of-all-times. Yet, Gerwig's choice hasn’t stopped her to reference the technology in some way. At Barbie's morning ritual, the main character is shown getting dressed by standing in front of her closet and having the clothing magically appear on her.
As noted by Margot Robbie to Architectural Digest, this was inspired by the virtual wardrobe of Clueless, detail that settled such a high standard in design which motivated Gerwig and Robbie to do something as cool as that. Talking of coolness, another parallel between both figures might be the energy they radiate; that complete miss sunshine aura with an immense confidence in herself and own acts. And while trying to do the right, Barbie and Cher look stylish doing so.
Non-surprisingly, their resemblances also have a collision point in fashion aspects. Although Barbie being a majorly pink fashionista, just as Cher, she has a “fashion communication” behavior, where both dress for the specific occasion.
When Barbie is in the boat going to the real world, she wears a cute nautical look in pink and white stripes combined with sailor hats. When partying, she is in a gold disco jumpsuit. It all depends on the occasion. Same for Cher. When in school, she prefers preppy typical uniforms essentials, with a hint of high fashion. Meanwhile celebrating, the option is a red opulent Alaïa.
Of course that their method of dressing is affected by their own styles, which do diverge a bit, yet, contain similarities. Proving that the likeness is real,while attending an interview, Margot Robbie chosen one yellow Chanel Tweed, combined with a faux-fur bag, making a direct reference to Cher’s iconic plaid look. Things were finished with a flourish, they say.
