Small screen, big influence

How television's fashion icons set the tone for fall

KARACHI:

While Instagram offers endless scrolls of influencer #OOTDs, for many, true sartorial power still plays out on television screens where some characters have become style icons in their own right. As another season of crisp autumn dressing begins, it's time to look beyond the hashtags and spotlight the fictional wardrobes that have left an undeniable mark on fashion culture. These characters—whose closets have sparked countless Pinterest boards—exemplify timeless style that extends far beyond their on-screen lives.

Blair Waldorf

In the Upper East Side kingdom, Blair Waldorf reigns as the undisputed queen of prep-chic perfection. From Gossip Girl's earliest episodes, her carefully curated looks set the tone for a new wave of collegiate style. Signature headbands—crafted by luxury designers like Jennifer Behr—and Valentino's timeless silhouettes cemented her status as a modern fashion muse. Blair's wardrobe became a template for polished preppy looks, with her iconic Henri Bendel plaid skirts and bow-adorned blouses epitomising a sophisticated schoolgirl aesthetic that inspired a generation.

What sets Blair apart, however, is her ability to subvert traditional preppy codes. Her Constance Billard uniform was transformed into a personal runway, elevated by strategically placed brooches, colored tights, and perfectly tied neck scarves. Her preference for rich autumnal hues—think burgundies, navies, and regal purples—added depth to her outfits, making each look feel like it belonged in a fashion editorial. Even as trends have shifted, Blair's influence remains as enduring as her sharp one-liners, proving that the art of prep is never out of style when done with such finesse.

Olivia Pope

Olivia Pope's commanding minimalism decidedly ruled the world of Washington's political chessboard. Her wardrobe in Scandal redefined power dressing for the modern woman—choosing structured elegance over sharp edges. Pope's signature winter white coats and tailored Burberry trenches were more than just outerwear; they were symbols of her strategic brilliance and unshakeable calm under pressure. The pristine whites and neutral tones in her wardrobe—sourced from designers like Max Mara—became a quiet rebellion in a city dominated by dark suits.

True to her poised character, Olivia's wardrobe was all about subtlety. She never relied on bold patterns or flashy colours to make a statement; instead, her monochrome palette conveyed strength through restraint. Prada bags and Movado watches completed her polished look, reinforcing her status as a woman in complete control. The ripple effect of her style was felt far beyond television, with white power suits becoming a go-to for professionals looking to channel Pope's effortless blend of strength and grace.

David Rose

David Rose of Schitt's Creek turned fashion into a form of expression so distinct, it's hard to imagine modern wardrobes without his influence. His all-black-and-white ensembles rival the popularity of the sitcom—comprising high-fashion pieces from Rick Owens, Givenchy, and Neil Barrett—to no one's surprise. David's wardrobe wasn't about following trends; it was about creating a bold identity through carefully chosen, avant-garde pieces that blurred the lines between menswear and womenswear.

The genius of David's style lies in his fearless approach to silhouettes. His penchant for oversized knits, drop-crotch pants, and asymmetrical designs created a new narrative in fashion, one that embraced fluidity and individuality. His fall wardrobe, full of artfully layered sweaters and textured outerwear, still offers an inspiring lesson in how to mix luxury fashion with personal authenticity.

Carrie Bradshaw

Few characters have defined TV fashion quite like Carrie Bradshaw. From the moment she twirled through the streets of New York in her infamous tulle skirt, it was clear that Carrie's wardrobe was going to change the way women viewed style. Patricia Field's fearless styling turned Carrie into a walking fashion experiment, one that gave us iconic looks like the Dior newspaper dress, the Fendi baguette, and, of course, those blue Manolo Blahnik Hangisi pumps.

Through all seasons of Sex and the City, Carrie's autumn ensembles were just as memorable, blending high-end designer pieces with thrifted treasures in a way that felt effortlessly chic. Her Vivienne Westwood plaid jacket paired with vintage fur marked her ability to combine textures and eras, while her love for statement accessories—think oversized flower pins and bold clutches—added a playful edge to her looks. In Carrie's world, fashion wasn't about fitting in; it was about standing out, and her unapologetic approach continues to inspire the most daring dressers.

Villanelle

Villanelle from Killing Eve is perhaps television's most glamorous anti-heroine, and her wardrobe is every bit as lethal as her profession. Costume designer Charlotte Mitchell crafted a sartorial identity for Villanelle that was nothing short of breathtaking. From the ethereal pink tulle Molly Goddard gown to the razor-sharp Dries Van Noten suits, Villanelle's fashion choices were both a disguise and a weapon, helping her slip in and out of identities with precision.

Her fall wardrobe, filled with expertly tailored coats, oversized knits, and avant-garde designs from Miu Miu and Loewe, speaks to her multifaceted character. Villanelle's style isn't just about looking good—it's about dominating every room she enters. Each outfit, layered with an intensity that matches her personality, redefines the concept of power dressing. Villanelle doesn't just kill with style; she annihilates, and her influence on fashion is just as sharp as her instincts.

Madeline Mackenzie

Madeline Mackenzie from Big Little Lies is proof that casual doesn't entail boring. Her California-cool aesthetic, masterminded by costume designer Alix Friedberg, revolves around luxurious yet relaxed pieces that perfectly capture the Monterey lifestyle. Madeline's fall wardrobe showcases flowing Zimmermann dresses, Ralph Lauren knits, and Burberry trenches that effortlessly combine comfort with class, transforming everyday school drop-offs into mini fashion moments.

Madeline's style thrives on understated luxury. Her statement Céline sunglasses, paired with the perfect denim and just-right cashmere, reflect a woman who understands the art of easy elegance. Yet, behind the effortless façade is a wardrobe curated with precision—each look thoughtfully constructed to maintain her status in Monterey's competitive social scene. Her fall wardrobe may seem simple at first glance, but each piece carries the weight of intention, reminding us that sometimes, the most effortless looks require the most effort.