Released in 1995, Clueless marked a major fashion reset. It moved away from the grunge style inspired by Nirvana and introduced a polished, preppy aesthetic. Cher Horowitz’s wardrobe helped reintroduce matching co-ord sets, slip dresses, and tartan skirts, effectively rewriting American youth fashion.
In addition to coining the immortalized expressions “as if!” and “whatever!”, the 1995 American coming-of-age romantic comedy film showed another side to ’90s fashion that people who aren’t that into grunge and hip-hop style instantly warmed up to.
Iconic ‘Clueless’ Movie Poster featuring Stacey Dash as Dionne, Alicia Silverstone as Cher, and Brittany Murphy as Tai—leaders in ’90s school fashion (Credit: Paramount Pictures)
The 1995 film Clueless marked a pivotal shift in fashion trends, steering away from the grunge aesthetic of baggy jeans and flannel shirts.
As noted by Varsity, “Clueless redefined the look of the 90s, renewing the plaid shirt into a plaid skirt”. This transformation popularized preppy, coordinated outfits, influencing street style and high fashion.
Stacey Dash, Alicia Silverstone, and Brittany Murphy channel peak ’90s prep in coordinated mini skirts and bold knee-high socks, paired with platform Mary Janes and sleek loafers that defined the Clueless aesthetic (Credit: Paramount Pictures)
Costume designer Mona May worked closely with director Amy Heckerling to craft high-fashion looks that still felt relatable to Beverly Hills teens. With a modest $200,000 costume budget, they sourced pieces from Calvin Klein, Alaïa, and Dolce & Gabbana — blending thrifted finds with runway-ready statements.
The influence of Clueless goes far beyond the screen. Its fashion legacy continues from TV shows like Buffy the Vampire Slayer to modern runways.
Brittany Murphy as Tai Frasier, Alicia Silverstone as Cher Horowitz, and Stacey Dash as Dionne Davenport walk through their high school campus, each flaunting unique ’90s style skirts—Tai in a plaid mini skirt, Cher in a light blue mini skirt, and Dionne in a red mini skirt, in a classic scene from the film Clueless (Credit: Paramount Pictures)
Donatella Versace’s Fall 2018 collection echoed Cher’s bold plaid looks, and Alexander Wang has cited Clueless as one of his favorite films. The yellow plaid suit, the red Alaïa dress, and the empire-waist sage gown all prove one thing: fashion before everything.
Alicia Silverstone’s red Alaïa mini dress and matching Mary Janes became one of Clueless’s most iconic fashion moments—proving that high fashion endures, even mid-mugging (Credit: Paramount Pictures)
Nearly three decades later, Clueless remains a fashion touchstone. Whether you’re looking to recreate Cher’s standout looks or add a subtle nod to ’90s chic in your wardrobe, this film proves that true style is timeless. As Cher would say — “Ugh, as if!” you’d wear anything boring.
The film’s cultural impact extends far beyond fashion editors and costume designers—it has captivated generations of viewers.
Actress Krysten Ritter once confessed, “I’ve watched ‘Clueless’ as many times as humanly possible. Like, I would run home from school to watch it. Like, I can quote it backwards.” Her fangirl-level obsession isn’t unique—many stars and stylists continue to cite Clueless as a defining influence on their personal style.
Clueless-Inspired Fashion Moments: Celebrities Channeling Cher Horowitz
The iconic style of Clueless continues to influence fashion today. From red carpets to street style, celebrities are embracing Cher Horowitz’s timeless looks. Explore how modern stars are reinventing these classic ensembles:
Irina Shayk’s Modern Take on Plaid
- Event: New York City Outing
- Outfit: Irina Shayk stepped out in a purple and yellow plaid skirt suit reminiscent of Cher’s signature style.
- Footwear: She paired the ensemble with combat boots, adding a contemporary edge.
- Read more: Irina Shayk Channels Clueless’ Cher Horowitz in Vivienne Westwood Plaid
Stacey Dash and Alicia Silverstone: The Ages Behind the Iconic Roles
- Behind the Scenes: When filming for Clueless began in November 1994, Alicia Silverstone was just 18 years old, while Stacey Dash was 27, portraying high school students with remarkable authenticity.
- Stacey Dash as Dionne Davenport: Dash connected deeply with her character, stating, “I knew it was me. I knew I was Dionne.” She appreciated Dionne’s blend of wealth, popularity, and a good heart.
- Alicia Silverstone as Cher Horowitz: Director Amy Heckerling cast Silverstone after seeing her in Aerosmith music videos, recognizing her potential to embody Cher’s charm and style.
- Read more: How Old Were Stacey Dash and Alicia Silverstone in Clueless?
AnnaSophia Robb’s Chanel Tribute
- Event: Tribeca Chanel Women’s Filmmaker Luncheon
- Outfit: AnnaSophia Robb wore a yellow tartan Chanel skirt, evoking Cher’s iconic schoolgirl look.
- Accessories: She completed the outfit with a black rib-knit top and chain belt.
- See more: AnnaSophia Robb Rocks Clueless-Inspired Chanel Ensemble
Rihanna’s Red-Hot Alaïa Moment
- Event: GQ Men of the Year Awards
- Outfit: Rihanna donned a red Calvin Klein dress, a reissue of the one made famous by Cher in Clueless.
- Footwear: She paired it with red Manolo Blahnik sandals, channeling 90s glamour.
- Discover more: Rihanna Rocks Iconic Calvin Klein ‘Clueless’ Dress
Taylor Swift’s Plaid Perfection
- Event: 2024 MTV Video Music Awards
- Outfit: Taylor Swift wore a yellow plaid Dior ensemble, reminiscent of Cher’s classic look.
- Footwear: She completed the outfit with Stuart Weitzman boots, blending preppy and punk aesthetics.
- See her look: Taylor Swift Stuns in Dior Plaid at the 2024 VMAs
Olivia Palermo’s Street Style Nod
- Event: Paris Fashion Week
- Outfit: Olivia Palermo showcased a Clueless-inspired look with a yellow-and-black plaid jacket and matching culottes.
- Footwear: She paired the outfit with knee-high combat boots, adding a modern twist.
- Explore her style: Olivia Palermo’s Clueless-Inspired Paris Fashion Week Ensemble
These fashion moments highlight Clueless’s enduring influence on contemporary style, proving that Cher Horowitz’s wardrobe choices remain as relevant today as they were in the 1990s.