10 Teen Fashion Icons to Channel this School Year!

Over the years, film and television have gifted us with a multitude of iconic teen characters. From Ferris Bueller to Sharpay Evans, so many of these characters have become memorable to us due to their antics, humor, passion, and more. Within the category of memorable characters, though, lies the specific genre of the fashion icon. It seems that every movie and television show of the '90s and early-2000s had at least one -- the enviable character who moved with confidence while sporting the trendiest clothes of the time.

When going back to school, I always found myself looking to these certified fashionistas for outfit inspiration. Not only do they provide excellent wardrobe advice, but the characters themselves have a charisma that captures the attention of everyone in the room. So, if you’re looking for a little bit of fashion inspo this back-to-school season, why not look to the best of the best? Here are 10 teen fashion icons to channel this school year!

1. Buffy Summers, "Buffy The Vampire Slayer"

No one had killer style quite like Buffy did. Sarah Michelle Geller in "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" gave us quintessential ‘90s looks. Her sleek and classy outfits were simple yet eye-catching. Mixing leather pants with delicate camisoles gave Buffy an edge and reminded everyone that you can look cute while also kicking butt.

2. Cher Horowitz, Clueless

Of course, no article about teen fashion icons would be complete without including Cher from Clueless. Alicia Silverstone’s iconic character was THE fashion It Girl of the '90s. Her bold skirt and blazer sets were everything. Pairing a mini skirt with knee-high socks and a peek-a-boo shirt collar, Cher knew how to make preppy look cool.

3. Ashley Banks, "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air"

Tatyana Ali never missed with her outfits on "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air", especially in the later seasons. The character of Ashley was versatile in her fashion by combining grungier looks with more feminine ones. If there’s one thing Ashley taught us, it’s to never underestimate a pair of overalls.

4. Blair Waldorf, "Gossip Girl"

If anyone has perfected the preppy look, it’s Blair Waldorf. Leighton Meester made Blair an iconic character through her use of a headband alone. Combine this with plaids, frills, tights, capes, and an oversized handbag, and you’ve got your look. You should fear a girl who can pull off ballet flats and pencil skirts on numerous occasions.

5. Lola Cep, Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen

Lindsay Lohan was the Queen of Eclectic in her role as Lola in ‘Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen.’ Lola never shied away from crazy patterns, bold layering, and a hat (of course). Her unwavering confidence made her look good in literally anything.

6. Lizzie McGuire, "Lizzie McGuire"

Absolutely no one did Y2K fashion like Lizzie McGuire. Hilary Duff’s character embraced the most 2000s trends out there with her use of camo, funky hairstyles, and bedazzled everything. Lizzie taught us to never be afraid of mixing patterns. Oh, and how to rock a bandana.

7. Jennifer Check, Jennifer’s Body

Megan Fox kept her outfits cute and casual as Jennifer in Jennifer’s Body (with the exception of the blood she was always covered in). Often wearing denim on the bottom, Jennifer wore cropped jackets on top in an array of bright colors and fun patterns. But don’t let the sweet look fool you! 

8. Raven Baxter, "That’s So Raven"

Raven-Symoné wore hot pink like nobody’s business on the Disney show "That’s So Raven". Plus, she invented faux fur trim (not really, but it feels like she did). Raven loved a monochrome look topped off with a leather jacket or faux fur trimmed coat. She must have seen the future because all of her looks remain trendy today.

9. London Tipton, "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody"

London Tipton was everybody’s favorite heiress back in the day. Brenda Song’s fits on "The Suite Life of Zack & Cody" were always over-the-top... and we loved it. Sparkly thin scarfs, hats, and chunky jewelry were a staple for Ms. Tipton. No one could wear a beret quite like London!

10. Sabrina Spellman, "Sabrina the Teenage Witch"

Sabrina Spellman was more than just a talented witch, she was a fashion icon as well. Melissa Joan Hart cast a spell on us with her portrayal of Sabrina, and, of course, with her outfits. Sabrina constantly delivered with her fashionable coordinating sets and use of velour mini dresses. Pair everything with a simple black choker and you have a whole look.