There is something about teenage high school dramas that spawn some of the most memorable fashion moments – unless you’re Marissa Cooper of The O.C. fame. Cher Horowitz of Clueless remains the gold standard for plaid chic. It’s a reference that came to mind when one looks at the Versace Fall/Winter 2018 show even though the brand did not outrightly took inspiration from the show. Thanks to Gossip Girl, the world got hooked on to the headband trend which was championed by its resident Queen Bee Blair Waldorf. Scream Queens was a great mood board for pastels, feathered outfits and tweed that formed the cornerstone of the wardrobe of its protagonist Chanel Oberlin.
Fast forward to this season and the newly released Netflix series The Politician is the latest pop culture institution to contribute to our growing high school fashion vocabulary. The eight-part dramedy revolves around the story of an aspiring Santa Barbara high schooler with aspirations to be the POTUS. In an interview with trade rag WWD, costume designer Lou Eyrich revealed that the show’s aesthetic choices were based on the themes of opulence and affluence. The showmakers also looked at the photographs of Slim Aarons, Palm Spring glamour and Mod fashion of the ’60s while drawing up the mood board.
These influences explain the strong preppy game in the show but distilled through a more current 2019 filter. Yes, there are pussy bows blouses, Jackie O-esque suits, and pearls. But rather than going full-on high waspy fashion, the update here lied in the too-cool-for-school effortless styling. Think brands like Miu Miu and Chanel paired with Jacquemus, French heritage shoe brand Carel and combat boots, or Martin Margiela shoes paired with tinted Gucci aviators. Here, our picks of The Politician-inspired looks that will put you on the top of your class.
