Have you ever heard of the iconic 90s sitcom Friends? The show introduces us to six close friends navigating the complexities of life, work, relationships, and everyday drama— all intertwining in New York City. Whether you’ve stumbled across it looking for a show to watch, or came across it in your mother's old DVD collection, Friends is an unforgettable cultural touchstone. The series surrounds the lives of Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Ross, Joey, and Chandler and over the span of a decade, they grapple with the challenges of navigating adulthood, and soon would become one of the most popular TV series in history. Beyond the show’s role as a source of comedic relief, Friends has served as an inspiration to countless young adults trying to make sense of their own lives.
Rachel Green, portrayed by the actress Jennifer Aniston, embarks on a transformative journey as she starts her career as a waitress at the Central Perk Café. As the series unfolds, Rachel's fashion becomes just as compelling as the show itself. Rachel effortlessly embraces the fashion trends of the 1990s and early 2000s, earning her the well-deserved title of “the decade’s most defining celluloid style icon”. Her character climbs the career ladder after she leaves her Central Perk to later begin a second job at Bloomingdale’s. This would soon be where Rachel adds a touch of chic into the world of retail. Through this, she lands a position at Ralph Lauren, culminating in a memorable encounter with Mr. Lauren himself in Season 6, Episode 8, marking a shift towards an even classier style.
Rachel's style is characterized by classic and timeless pieces, including blazers, tailored trousers, and black dresses. Her dresses, in particular, have become synonymous with her character, ranging from elegantly simple to boldly daring and revealing. Remarkably, these fashion trends continue to resonate with contemporary audiences, capturing the attention of many teenagers and young adults. Rachel's fashion choices exude a sense of maturity, offering a different value from the classic white-washed jeans and cropped tops that dominated in fashion for a while.
Rachel's influence extends beyond her clothing; her hairstyles have also left an indelible mark. Many women are revisiting her 90’s blowout look, prominently featured in the early seasons of Friends, which became hard to miss— with smooth, voluminous, and bouncy hair. Achieving this style typically involves a blow dryer and a round brush, evoking the tasteful look of a bygone era—yet a look that is making a grand return, “The Rachel.”
In her more casual moments, Rachel comfortably exhibits her style in well-fitted "mom" jeans, simple yet chic T-shirts, and cozy sweaters. Her penchant for layered outfits, featuring cardigans and blazers, adds depth and versatility to her looks—qualities that continue to resonate with fashion-forward individuals today. Rachel Green's influence on style stands as a testament to the timeless appeal of Friends, creating a fashion role model for people of all generations.
Edited by Chloe Mansola
Image: 'Rachel Green Knicks Sweater' by Dang Nguyen licensed by CC BY 4.0 DEED