With the return of the much-adored series Sex and the City through its reboot, And Just Like That, fashion enthusiasts have been voicing their opinions on the updated style choices of its beloved characters. And with the season 2 finale just a week away, we’ve decided to breakdown the symbolism of our favorite foursome’s bold fashion choices that set the tone for women everywhere in the late 1990s and early 2000s — and still to this day, if we’re being honest.
The infamous ladies of New York City have evolved in the new series as their characters have aged out of their former single girl eras. This reboot has given us a chance to witness not just the narrative progression of Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda, and Samantha, but also a transformation in their fashion sensibilities.
The original show became a defining platform for early 2000s trends and daring ensembles. We watched as the four friends navigated the streets of Manhattan in flamboyant, attention-grabbing outfits that were iconic of the era. From extravagant furs to sky-high Manolo Blahniks, Sex and the City was truly synonymous with over-the-top glamour and a lifestyle the world became infatuated with watching (as we write this rewatching the infamous show for our fourth or fifth time through).
Carrie Bradshaw
Fast forward to And Just Like That fashion, we observe a marked departure from the flashy excesses of the past. Carrie Bradshaw, once known for her eccentric, maximalist wardrobe, embraces a more refined and mature aesthetic. Don’t get us wrong, her outfits are, of course, still infused with her signature colorful whimsy and eclectic accessories, but now reflect an overarching more subtle and polished approach to fashion and to life.
Charlotte York
Charlotte York’s style evolution is equally intriguing. Moving beyond her previously conservative and structured attire, she now opts for an eclectic mix of patterns, textures, and styles. Her wardrobe speaks of a newfound confidence and willingness to experiment with diverse fashion influences as she navigates being a “cool mom” — let’s not forget Charlotte buying her daughter, Lily, condoms in season 2 episode 6 — along with fitting in with the other moms at school and finding herself again in this stage of her life.
Miranda Hobbes
Miranda Hobbes, the embodiment of power dressing, has undergone a transformation that aligns with the show’s contemporary outlook. Her new look is more relaxed yet chic, resonating with the modern woman’s inclination towards comfort without compromising on style. This is especially prevalent in season 2 where we see Miranda in a juxtaposition with her younger self; Once a fiercely independent single woman and successful lawyer, now trading that life in for a new version of herself. Miranda’s character in And Just Like That has new priorities, which include navigating a divorce and spending the majority of her time following her (now ex) girlfriend around the country to watch someone else chase after their dreams of success.
Samantha Jones
Samantha Jones, although not part of the reboot, left an indelible mark on the fashion landscape that continues to inspire. Her bold, fearless approach to dressing (and to life) served as a testament to her unapologetic personality and remains a cultural touchstone. As we patiently await Samantha’s cameo appearance in this season of And Just Like That, we are dying to see the kind of style evolution every woman’s single girl idol has gone through.
New Cast
With the absence of Samantha’s character came the introduction of a few new faces and And Just Like That fashion influences, including characters Seema Patel, Lisa Todd Wexley, Nya Wallace, Che Diaz, and Lisette. These four women have continued to bring fashion discussions to the forefront of TV in the Sex and the City franchise, all in their own unique and modern way.
And Just Like That sets itself apart by grounding its characters in more realistic and relatable fashion choices — for the most part (let’s not forget the *casual* Met Gala episode). The show emphasizes sustainable fashion and encourages the re-wearing of outfits, highlighting the value of timeless pieces over fleeting trends and current day issues on the forefront of the fashion world.
As we explore the dichotomy between Sex and the City and And Just Like That, it’s clear that the latter’s fashion choices encapsulate the essence of the modern era. Each character’s wardrobe journey reflects not only their personal growth but also the changing dynamics of society’s fashion sensibilities. The comparison between the original and its reboot goes beyond fashion; It’s a reflection of evolving attitudes and aspirations. This modern take on fashion aligns seamlessly with the essence of the show, speaking to a new generation while nodding to its iconic roots.
