Black women have been the trendsetters of fashion on television for generations. Their characters delivered looks that tapped into culture and inspired audiences to challenge norms in their own style. Here are some unforgettable looks that still captivate.
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Willona Woods, “Good Times” (1974-1979)
The flyest woman in the projects, Willona Woods, delivered ’70s style effortlessly. Embracing bold colors and prints, from form-fitting dresses to stylish pantsuits, she accessorized with wigs, hats and headwraps, Willona (played by the late Ja’Net DuBois) served up fashionista looks on the regular.
Dominique Deveraux, “Dynasty” (1984-1987), “The Colbys” (1985-1986)
The original “rich auntie,” Domique Deveraux was brought to life by the incomparable late Diahann Carroll, who shattered barriers as the first Black diva in a prime-time soap. Classy and equally ruthless, Dynasty’s elite businesswoman embodied ’80s opulence in metallic fabrics, sheath dresses, fox furs and stilettos.
Clair Huxtable, “The Cosby Show” (1984-1992)
Phylicia Rashad portrayed TV’s favorite mom, Clair Huxtable, who always kept it fly! Representing the Black upper middle class, the powerhouse lawyer dazzled in power suits, blouses with pencil skirts, chic two-pieces for date night and luxe loungewear—often punctuating courtroom-to-home looks with bold jewelry.
Denise Huxtable, “The Cosby Show” (1984-1992)
Oh, how we love the countless looks of Denise Huxtable’s evolving style. Only Lisa Bonet could have pulled off preppy, eclectic, oversized menswear and Bohemian as the loveable, carefree and moderately flaky Denise.
Sandra Clark, “227” (1985-1990)
Flirtatious and funny, Sandra was the sexiest tenant of 227 Lexington Place. She turned heads in hip-hugging peplum dresses with deep necklines, leopard-print ensembles, vibrant colors and eye-catching earrings. Jackée Harry took on “Saaandra” with unmatched style—rivaled only by the switch in her walk.
Whitley Gilbert, “A Different World” (1987-1993)
Her luggage was strictly Louis Vuitton, so we knew the wardrobe was fire! Jasmine Guy played Whitley, a bougie, privileged Southern belle whose sophisticated, subtly sexy style stood out on campus. Tailored blazers, feminine necklines, miniskirts with kitten heels, satin scarves and fur coats. Impeccably timeless!
Vivian Banks, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” (1990-1993)
The always-polished “Original Aunt Viv,” portrayed by Janet Hubert, brought business-chic to the forefront with blouses, suits and memorable pieces that fit with precision. With geometric patterns, rich colors and head-turning accessories, every thoughtful style commanded respect.
Hilary Banks, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” (1990-1996)
As Hilary Banks, Karyn Parsons took power dressing to the next level, pairing mini skirt suits with perfectly coordinated statement hats. She mastered color-blocking, houndstooth and lace with perfect balance, always staying runway-ready.
Moesha Mitchell, “Moesha” (1996-2001)
As Moesha, Brandy Norwood embodied every Black girl of her era, rocking fitted tops, cropped vests, baggy pants and trendy hats over those iconic, styled microbraids. Don’t Moesha episodes evoke the scent of Warm Vanilla Sugar on an autumn day?
Kim Parker, “The Parkers” (1999-2004)
Sometimes tacky but always fun, Kim Parker — played by Countess Vaughn — was an underrated style icon from “Moesha” and “The Parkers.” She proved late ’90s/early 2000s fashion wasn’t just for size six bodies, rocking fur-collared sleeves, mini skirts, high boots and a Jean Paul Gaultier top with confidence.
Raven Baxter, “That’s So Raven” (2003-2007)
Raven Baxter, played by Raven-Symoné, was a study in fearless, playful and inventive style. The texture-mixing visionary (wink-wink) loved furry vests, satin blouses, squined jackets and statement boots. Raven wasn’t afraid to put it all together, turning every outfit into an expression of teen creativity.
Joan Clayton, “Girlfriends” (2000-2008)
Joan Clayton, played by Tracee Ellis Ross, moved effortlessly from law-firm sophistication to after-hours energy. Her wardrobe included flowy blouses and pencil skirts, plus curve-skimming dresses and camo pants. Quirky, career-focused Joan was a masterclass in dressing for ambition and authenticity, with natural hair part of her signature style.
Olivia Pope, “Scandal” (2012-2018)
Kerry Washington as Olivia Pope had all the girls in a chokehold with her elevated, no-nonsense style. In feminine blouses, tailored pantsuits, high-end coats, head-turning heels and trademark Prada totes, she dressed like a woman who ran D.C. before most ate breakfast. Even in a crisis, Liv’s wardrobe showed us that power and elegance can coexist.
Issa Dee, “Insecure” (2016-2021)
With clashing prints and chaotic layering, awkward Black girl Issa Dee didn’t always nail the look. But as she grew, her wardrobe leveled up, too. Cutout trenches, cropped blazers, complementary hues and perfect-fit jeans signaled the arrival of a polished, self-assured Issa, played by Issa Rae.
Zoey Johnson, “Grownish” (2018-2024)
Zoey Johnson, played by Yara Shahidi, defined Gen Z style with eclectic, boundary-pushing outfits — think unique layering like a gingham top with a bold floral or a metallic jacquard jacket over a blouse and vest. Not every look was for everybody, but Zoey wore each with individuality, switching up her hair to match.
Gabi Mosely, “Found” (2023-2025)
Power-driven Gabi Mosley, played by Shanola Hampton, elevated office attire with edgy power suits, leather pants and a split-color blazer. Statement coats worthy of obsession, clean lines, and wardrobe basics became her commanding armor in the pursuit of justice.
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