An Homage to the Style Influence of Black TV and Movie Icons

For years, costume choices have impacted how characters’ legacies are carried on to the future. Trends have been born and shared through the characters we’ve seen on screen. And while many fashion folk will refer to Rachel Green or Carrie Bradshaw as TV’s best dressed, they end up erasing Black creatives who have been the trendsetters of every generation. Spanning decades of entertainment, Black characters have given us the best of fashion, from classic sitcoms to heavy-hitting dramas. Actresses such as Issa Rae, Karyn Parsons, and Tracee Ellis Ross have not only entertained their audiences in their roles, but they’ve also inspired many with their characters’ striking ensembles. 

Below, look at 10 iconic style moments from Black characters in TV and Movies.