At what stage do you consider someone a bona fide It girl? Is it when they make their film debut in Larry Clark and Harmony Korine’s provocative 90s cult-classic Kids? Or make their first appearance on the runway for Miu Miu in 1995? Or, is it when they become a staple in Manhattan’s underground circles, featuring in numerous Sonic Youth music videos and partook in a renegade fashion show thrown by Sofia Coppola? Perhaps it’s when you’re awarded the coveted moniker by The New Yorker at age 16, no less.

For perennial style icon and the definitive coolest woman alive, Chloë Sevigny, it’s all of the above.

Throughout her five decades, many have tried to dissect just what makes Sevigny so inspirational. But as an eternal muse, it’s her insouciant attitude and effortless approach to clothing that’s mythologised her one of the most inimitable figures in film and fashion.

As a pinnacle indie cinema darling, Sevigny began her career adorned in thrifted tiger-striped stockings, as she did for the premiere of 1996’s Trees Lounge, and chintzy vintage finds before soon capturing the eye of luxury designers who clamoured to have her endorsements—both on and off the runway. Though the labels she wore might’ve been more elevated than the ones she hawked in East Village boutiques, her penchant for the unexpected and tact for making you covet something you’d never think you’d like remained.

The latter is probably due to her street style know-how. Unlike other celebrities, Sevigny dresses for real life and it’s the concrete jungle that proves to be her best arena. (Though, she’s no stranger to the red carpet either.) This was proved in 2023 when Sevigny proudly declared “The Sale Of The Century” by peddling off her personal archive. The line wrapped city blocks just for a chance to buy pre-loved pieces from her closet, with everyone from socialites to singers (see: Olivia Rodrigo) buying what Sevigny was selling.

Now, as Sevigny reaches her milestone 50th birthday, it’s fitting that her recent roles in Luca Gaudingo’s Bones And All or Ryan Murphy’s anthology series, Feud: Capote vs The Swans and Monsters: The Lyle and Erik Menendez Story, have reminded us all of why she’s so everlastingly beloved.

In celebration of a half-century of style, look back at Chloë Sevigny’s best fashion moments, below.

Chloë Sevigny’s Best Fashion Moments