First, there was HBO’s Sex and the City. It saw audiences debating intensely over Carrie Bradshaw’s ever-growing Manolo Blahnik shoe collection as much as her perplexing relationship with her love interest, Mr Big. Then came CW’s Gossip Girl, which successfully made designer purses, bright tartan suits and headbands become must-have items in every young, style-conscious teenager’s wardrobe.
Today, we have Netflix’s Emily In Paris, which is currently drawing plenty of buzz online and on social media for allegedly perpetuating stereotypes, its undeniably dreamy filming locations and, of course, for the cast’s fabulous (and sometimes questionable) wardrobe choices.
Styled by renowned costume designer Patricia Field, who is responsible for the iconic looks featured on Sex and the City, the series’ protagonist, Emily, is often spotted in clashing prints and kitschy accessories. They're over-the-top enough to incite more than a few strong reactions from the fashion set. Read on as we deliver our verdict on the best and worst fashion moments from the web television series so far.
Miss: Busy in beige and black
On the show’s second episode titled, ‘Masculin Feminin’, Emily is seen struggling to adjust to her new life in Paris. Her office attire featured a perplexing combination of beige and black separates which failed to impress. The black bomber jacket with swirly patterns, a top with polka dot print and a chiffon skirt combo was just not cutting it for us. As for her accessories, the ring handle bag with long fringe details and a pair of nude split-toe boots only made the look even more confusing.
Hit: Ruby princess
A few minutes before the series’ sixth episode, ‘Ringarde’, came to a close, the show depicted Emily back in the office, making herself a cup of espresso. In this scene, she sported a chic ensemble which perfectly encapsulated what (pre-pandemic) Casual Fridays in the office ought to look like.
Rocking large gold hoops on her ears, Emily (or rather, actress Lily Collins) complemented her signature brunette waves and full brows with a deep berry lip. For her main attire, she opted for a deep red ruffled blouse; a gorgeous, collared jacket with contrasting red and black stitching detail and cuffed denim jeans. This outfit was a clear winner in our eyes because it showcased Emily’s love for prints, without appearing too overwhelming and busy.
Hit: Chic in CHANEL
There is no doubt that Emily is a huge fan of French luxury brand CHANEL, given how she has toted around some of the brand’s most covetable purses throughout the series. In episode four, ‘A Kiss Is Just A Kiss’, Emily showed up to the office in an eye-catching outfit which comprised a metallic green motorcycle jacket, an animal-print skirt and a glittering CHANEL crossbody purse.
In the above close-up shot of Emily, we were treated to a glimpse of her slim CHANEL silk twill scarf, which featured a contemporary take on the brand’s logo. We were particularly fond of this get-up because neckties are not the easiest to pull off. Furthermore, they often take a backseat to other accessories such as minimalistic necklaces and edgy chokers, but Emily took a fashion risk here and turned out looking gorgeous.
Miss: Clashing prints and pinks
In the 10th and final episode of the series' first season, titled ‘Cancel Culture’, Emily showed up to the company in a newsboy cap which featured an all-over Dior logo print in light pink. This statement accessory worked wonderfully on its own as an on-trend item, looking at how major fashion brands continue to be hit hard by the nostalgia bug.
However, Emily’s overall ensemble looked dated and overtly kitschy because the cap was styled with another taffy-coloured number — a matching houndstooth jacket and skirt. To top it all off, she also wore an off-white plaid jacket, which made the outfit too busy for our liking.
Do you agree with our verdict?
(Cover photos from: @emilyinparislooks)
Ready for more on-screen fashion moments? Click here for our lineup of Asian dramas that are worthy of serving as your next style peg.
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