Television has always been a powerful influence on style, but only a few shows truly define what it means to be fashion-forward. Whether it’s high couture in a glossy drama or effortlessly cool streetwear in a gritty urban series, these TV shows don’t just reflect trends—they set them. In this blog, we explore the most iconic and fashion-forward TV shows of all time and how they’ve impacted the fashion industry and personal style globally.
1. Sex and the City – The Reign of Carrie Bradshaw
Sex and the City is often credited with changing how fashion is perceived on television. Carrie Bradshaw, portrayed by Sarah Jessica Parker, turned the New York City streets into her personal runway. With designer heels, bold color combos, and whimsical pieces, the series made fashion a central narrative. The show’s influence continues to inspire generations of women who see dressing up as an art form and a form of expression.
2. Gossip Girl – Elite Prep School Chic
The original Gossip Girl was a masterclass in prep-school glamour. With characters like Blair Waldorf and Serena van der Woodsen, the show gave viewers a front-row seat to opulent fashion moments featuring Chanel, Dior, and Marc Jacobs. The reboot continued the legacy, adding modern street style flair and inclusive representation. Every episode was a curated lookbook that influenced runway and retail trends alike.
3. Emily in Paris – Bold, Bright, and Unapologetically French
Emily in Paris might be divisive in storytelling, but its fashion is universally adored. Styled by Patricia Field (the genius behind Sex and the City), Emily’s wardrobe is filled with colorful ensembles, designer handbags, and head-turning accessories. Each outfit is more Instagram-worthy than the last, making the show a global influencer in real-life fashion circles.
4. Mad Men – Vintage Elegance and Power Dressing
Set in the 1960s, Mad Men took viewers back to a time of sharp suits, curve-hugging dresses, and retro accessories. Don Draper’s clean-cut style and Joan Holloway’s sultry silhouettes showed how clothing could express both professionalism and sensuality. The show’s meticulous attention to period details revived interest in vintage fashion and made mid-century styles cool again.
5. Euphoria – Gen Z’s Rule-Breaking Style
Euphoria broke all the rules of traditional TV styling. Glitter tears, mesh tops, baggy cargos, and platform boots—its aesthetic is a bold mix of 90s nostalgia and futuristic edge. Costume designer Heidi Bivens created looks that match the show’s emotional intensity, making fashion a storytelling device. The show influences everything from TikTok trends to luxury brand campaigns.
6. The Crown – Royal Sophistication
For those who favor regal elegance, The Crown serves a royal banquet of fashion. From Queen Elizabeth’s structured dresses to Princess Diana’s iconic revenge dress, the series recreates historical outfits with stunning accuracy. It has renewed interest in heritage brands and vintage royal style, proving that fashion can be timeless and influential.
7. Scandal – Power Dressing Redefined
Olivia Pope’s wardrobe in Scandal transformed how women view professional attire. Soft cashmere coats, tailored pantsuits, and designer handbags made power dressing both sophisticated and feminine. The show inspired working women everywhere to upgrade their office wardrobes, giving a new identity to the term “boss lady.”
8. Bridgerton – Regency Era Glam Reimagined
Bridgerton brought regency-core to the mainstream. Empire waist gowns, corsets, and tiaras became fashion statements again thanks to the show’s romantic aesthetic. Designers began incorporating regency elements in their collections, and brands started offering “Bridgerton-inspired” lines. It’s another proof of how fashion in TV can reshape market trends.
9. Killing Eve – Spy Chic Meets Avant-Garde
Villanelle’s wardrobe in Killing Eve was as killer as her job description. From a billowy pink Molly Goddard gown to sleek leather outfits, the fashion choices were daring and theatrical. This show blurred the lines between costume and couture, turning its lead into a fashion icon without saying a word.
10. Dynasty (Reboot) – Glamour on Overdrive
The rebooted Dynasty continues its 80s predecessor’s tradition of bold fashion. Sequins, fur, statement sleeves, and power suits dominate the screen. It’s a guilty pleasure, dripping in excess—and that’s precisely why it works. The show has become a visual feast for fashion enthusiasts looking for high drama and higher heels.
Conclusion: Fashion and TV – A Timeless Love Affair
TV shows have long influenced trends, but the ones mentioned above set a new bar for what it means to be fashion-forward. These iconic series didn’t just reflect what was happening in the style world—they helped shape it. Whether you’re a designer, stylist, or just someone passionate about clothes, revisiting these shows offers a masterclass in evolving aesthetics. The connection between television and fashion continues to thrive, offering endless inspiration for the wardrobe of today and tomorrow.
