‘Sex and the City’: How Carrie Bradshaw’s Iconic Style Continues to Influence Fashion
Carrie Bradshaw’s style in Sex and the City has left a permanent mark on the fashion world. Decades after the show’s debut, iconic looks from the series are still turning heads and inspiring new generations. Let’s explore how the show’s lasting influence continues, with a spotlight on one unforgettable dress and its present-day revival.
Carrie Bradshaw’s iconic 'Sex and the City' style revived by Jenna Ortega with the Dior newspaper dress at a New York premiere.
The Enduring Legacy of Sex and the City
When Sex and the City aired in 1998, it quickly became a cultural phenomenon. Its candid take on relationships and friendship, set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, captured viewers everywhere. But beyond the witty dialogue and memorable situations, the series made fashion a central character.
Carrie Bradshaw, brought to life by Sarah Jessica Parker, elevated street style to an art form. Her eclectic wardrobe mixed luxury brands with flea market finds, making high fashion feel accessible and fun. One standout moment from the show remains especially iconic — the Dior newspaper dress.
The Dior Newspaper Dress: From Primetime to Red Carpet Revival
Worn by Carrie in Season 3, the John Galliano-designed Dior newspaper dress became an instant classic. The episode features Carrie confronting Mr. Big's wife, Natasha, in a dramatic and emotional scene. Instantly, the dress was cemented in TV and fashion history.
In 2025, actress Jenna Ortega paid homage to this fashion milestone by wearing the very same Dior newspaper dress to the world premiere of Hurry Up Tomorrow in New York City. Ortega’s styling choices — gold chain jewelry, metallic heels, and a sultry beauty look — showcased just how timeless this piece remains. Her look drew admiration on social media and beyond, with fans celebrating this nod to Sex and the City’s enduring impact. For more details on Ortega's head-turning appearance, check out this in-depth coverage from British Vogue.
Carrie Bradshaw’s Impact on Modern Fashion
Fashion’s love affair with the Sex and the City aesthetic continues well into the 2020s. Designers and style icons often reference Carrie’s mix-and-match approach and signature silhouettes. The recent New York appearance of the newspaper dress underscores how classic pieces from the series remain relevant and desirable.
Additionally, modern collections frequently echo trends from the show — think playful prints, bold accessories, and fearless layering. Notably, the Dior newspaper dress has appeared in runway retrospectives, new series like And Just Like That, and major red-carpet moments. Carrie Bradshaw’s influence is alive not only in nostalgia but also in the evolving language of fashion.
Sex and the City: More Than Just Fashion
While Carrie’s wardrobe gets plenty of attention, Sex and the City is more than just fabulous clothes. The show broke barriers with its frank conversations about love, ambition, and friendship. Characters felt real and relatable, tackling life’s ups and downs in a way that resonated deeply with viewers.
This blend of style and substance is a major reason the series maintains such a passionate following. Whether revisiting old episodes or seeing modern stars like Jenna Ortega channel classic looks, the magic of Sex and the City lives on.
Conclusion: The Style Legacy Continues
As recent trends and celebrity tributes like Jenna Ortega’s prove, the fashion legacy of Sex and the City is as powerful as ever. Carrie Bradshaw’s influence reaches beyond the television screen, continuing to set the standard for self-expression and confidence through clothing.
Want to relive even more iconic moments? Dive into Vogue’s feature on Jenna Ortega’s Carrie Bradshaw moment or explore InStyle’s detailed recap of this fashionable homage. The world of Sex and the City keeps turning, reminding us that great style — much like great storytelling — truly never goes out of fashion.