Fashion
How To Dress Like Elle Woods, America’s Favorite Harvard Student
A ‘Legally Blonde’ Style Icon
This summer marks a very special anniversary—15 years since Legally Blonde first hit theaters.
Back in 2001, Elle Woods, everyone’s favorite Harvard Law student played by Reese Witherspoon, won over our hearts with her smarts, wit, and flawless head-to-toe pink ensembles. We admire her for always being polished and poised (except for that brief chocolate-filled moment after Warner dumped her, but we’ll make an exception in the name of heartbreak). I mean, she single-handedly solved a murder trial with her knowledge of perms, and accompanied by her killer confidence and dazzling smile, what’s not to love about Elle?
Always dressed to the nines, with her equally style-savvy canine companion Bruiser in tow (may he rest in peace), there’s something about the bubbly blonde that I’m drawn to (quite possibly due to the fact that both Elle and Bruiser, like myself, are Gemini vegetarians). More than a decade later, I find that there’s something about Elle Woods that should be honored.
However, 15 years are forever in the world of fashion, and her iconic style could use a bit of an update. We recreated four of Elle’s most memorable looks from the movie, from her courtroom dress to the preppy ensemble that she wore to first day of class.
Click through the gallery and learn how to emulate Elle Woods in a very 2016 way.
The Courtroom
Elle's case-winning belted look is perfect for a job interview or any professional fashion situation.
Diane von Furstenberg, Irina Silk And Chiffon Combo Wrap Dress, $498, available at Diane von Furstenberg.
H&M, Small Shoulder Bag, $9.99, available at H&M.
SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker, ‘Katrina’ Pointy Toe Block Heel Pump, $350, available at Nordstrom.
Lele Sadoughi, Globe Pendant, $115, available at Lele Sadoughi.
Fallon, Rotation Double Pearl Wire Cuff, $395, available at Barneys.
Date Night
Lots of glitzy pink things? Check. Making sure that you're date isn't as big of a tool as Warner? Check.
Leith, V-Neck Sheath Dress, $68, available at Nordstrom.
Nadia Gabriella, Ella Clutch, $250, available at NYLONshop.
ASOS, Harmonise Heeled Sandals, $77, available at ASOS.
Kate Spade New York, Chantilly Gems Statement Necklace, $228, available at Kate Spade New York.
Gasoline Glamour, Glitter Heart Ring, $26, available at NYLONshop.
First Day Of Class
Elle toned down her look just a bit for her first day of class at Harvard. Still, her ensemble encompasses subtle hints of pink (as do her school supplies, of course). This is a perfect outfit for a back-to-school situation or any day at the office.
Ann Taylor, Begonia Lace Flounce Dress, available at Ann Taylor.
Vince, Lightweight Ponte Side Slit Vest, $375, available at Vince.
Topshop, Stripe Skinny Scarf, $22, available at Topshop.
Coach, Jill Flat, $175, available at Coach.
Swarovski, Crystalline Lady Ballpoint Pen in ‘Fuschia,’ $35, available at Swarovski.
For Laying Outside
Whether you're chatting with new classmates before class or picnicking with friends in the park, this is the perfect look for those warm spring days spent lofting on the grass.
Pixie Market, Stripe Denim Off The Shoulder Top, $36, available at Pixie Market.
Zara, Cropped Trousers With Front Pleat, $69.90 available at Zara.
Mansur Gavriel, Mid-Heel Suede Mules, $475, available at Opening Ceremony.
Rebecca Minkoff, Unlined Tote, $275, available at Rebecca Minkoff.
American Needle, Washed Canvas Baseball Hat, $24, available at Urban Outfitters.