The first run of Gossip Girl will forever remain iconic for Blair Waldorf’s preppy yet immaculate dressing sense and Serena Van Der Woodsen’s quintessential ‘NYC girl’ sartorial sensibilities. From plaids paired with playful berets, extravagant sequined gowns, breezy summer dresses, classic Mini Dior and Hermès Birkins, feminine headbands to pared-down denim—Gossip Girl presented us with classic and polished looks which could easily fit into the fashionable girl-next-door stereotype.
Now over eight years later, as the hit teen drama gets a reboot, so has its fashion. Picture this: trendy pieces fresh off the runway and a style that emulates the likes of today’s generation. Gossip Girl 2.0 is not only back in the game with refreshing looks but fashion that’s diverse and inclusive. With the show’s original costume designer and stylist, Eric Daman making a comeback, the new rendition of Gossip Girl is leaning towards a young, diverse and street style-inspired fashion than its predecessor.
Ahead, we’ve put together some of the best looks we spotted on the Upper East Side circa 2021.
Preppy Fall
One of the show’s main characters Audrey Hope (played by American actress Emily Alyn Lind), set the tone for fall dressing. Donning a Michael Kors plaid sweater layered over a white shirt, Chloe pumps and a Cartier handbag, her look is emblematic of a style that’s equal parts laidback and modish. Notice the extra elements like socks and a necktie which lends her outfit a young upgrade.
Chic Athleisure
The series hit the benchmark for showcasing looks that were an amalgamation of trends. Seen here is Canadian actress Jordan Alexander playing the role of Julien Calloway, who carries a sense of style that’s daring, experimental and fierce. Dressed in a Dolce & Gabbana trench coat, Tommy Hilfiger joggers, Fila sneakers and a Dior saddlebag, the blend of athleisure with high-fashion elements is too hard to ignore.
Flower Power
Thinking of giving your designer pieces a Gen-Z touch? Trust Luna La for the right inspiration. Played by Mexican-American actress Zión Moreno, the floral print silk georgette dress by Giambattista Valli stole the show for all the right reasons. The high-top sneakers and a belt cinching the dress at the waist gives her look a refreshing spin.
Edgy Whites
Sure, a crisp white shirt is an essential in your wardrobe for fashion emergencies, but Jordan Alexander’s version of it breaks away from the notion of ‘basic.’ Paired with cycling shorts and Schutz boots, let her show you how to rock a white shirt the 21st century way.
Grunge Resurgence
Starring as Zoya Lott, Ugandan-Canadian actress Whitney Peak’s style runs parallel with all things casual. Oversized sweatshirts, plaid skirts, knee-high socks, gumboots with a cotton tote bag? We’re sold.
Burgundy Takeover
First-Gen blogger Tavi Gevinson plays the role of Kate Keller, a “flustered teacher.” Whatever the persona, her sophisticated style is something to look out for. Dressed in a Banana Republic coat, Essentiel Antwerp pants and Marion Parke shoes, her constant trousers and overcoats parade will give you all the inspiration for winter dressing at its best.
Mix It Up
Just 30 minutes into an episode is enough to certify that Zión Moreno is the queen of layering. Whether it’s her school uniform or hanging out with friends, she leaves no opportunity to layer her fits. Our favourite? This look complete with a Ninety Percent sweater, Rag & Bone boots, and of course, a Dior book tote.
Varsity Revival
Jordan Alexander knows how to make a private school varsity jacket and uniform look undeniably cool, and here’s proof. Seen here, she paired a custom Saint Laurent varsity jacket with cycling shorts. To complete her look, she opted for a vintage Louis Vuitton Papillon and Balenciaga sneakers.
Daytime Sequins
It’s a well-known fact. Gossip Girl cannot be complete without high-shine sequins and risqué cuts. Testimony to this fact is Whitney Peak’s look in this bright orange Alex Perry dress and Jimmy Choo clutch. And yes, eight years later, after the OG Gossip Girl’s finale—the sky-high heels HAD to be replaced with the Gen-Z approved kicks. We stan!
Photographs: Instagram, Getty Images