Carrie Bradshaw taught an entire generation how to fall in love with fashion. But she also taught us what not to do. In 2025, we can still channel the energy without draining our savings or confusing emotional chaos with character development.
Here’s what we’re keeping from Carrie’s wardrobe playbook—and what we’re updating with a little Phia perspective.
Embrace Your Unique Style
“Don’t follow trends. Set them.”
Carrie wore what she wanted, when she wanted—no algorithm, no aesthetic board. She paired vintage with designer, wore a belt just because, and made the case for personal style over perfection.
Your move: Shop secondhand to build a closet that actually reflects you. Signature style > seasonal trends.
Don’t Settle
“I couldn’t help but wonder... was I settling?” – Carrie, every third episode
Carrie didn’t settle in love (well, not for long), and she definitely didn’t settle in fashion. She always went for what she really wanted, even if it didn’t make sense on paper.
Your move: Stop impulse-buying pieces that “will do.” Whether it’s a pair of vintage boots or the perfect white tank, hold out for the version that feels right.
And Please, Don’t Do This:
“I’ve spent $40,000 on shoes and I have no place to live.” – Carrie Bradshaw
Iconic line, terrible life strategy. Carrie’s closet didn’t make sense for her budget, and in real life, that math just doesn’t math. Besides, why pick between being stylish orfinancially stable when you can have both?
Your move: Build a high-low closet. Splurge on what holds value, thrift the rest. Use platforms like Phia to track resale value, find secondhand gems, and keep your cost-per-wear in check. You can have great shoes and a lease.
And just like that... you’re ready to build a wardrobe that’s stylish, smart, and entirely your own.
XO,
Phia 💙
This Substack is reader-supported. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.
Her biggest flaw even after KNOWING shoes and working with Vogue she didn't start a fashion blog ;)