The Evolution of Fashion in Teen Dramas

The Influence of 'Jawbreaker' on Teen Drama Fashion

The iconic high school dramedy 'Jawbreaker' has left an indelible mark on the fashion world, with its candy-colored aesthetic and bold sartorial choices. As the film celebrates its 25th anniversary, we reflect on its enduring influence on popular teen dramas like 'Gossip Girl,' 'Euphoria,' and 'Do Revenge.'

From left: Julie Benz, Rose McGowan and Rebecca Gayheart, whose "Jawbreaker" characters turn the hallways of their high school into high-stakes runways.

The costumes in 'Jawbreaker' were designed to be sweet and sugary-looking, masking the darker undertones of the plot. Costume designer Vikki Barrett aimed to create a festive and fun wardrobe for the characters, avoiding dark colors to surprise the audience with elements of darkness.

In "Jawbreaker," the makeover scene — a mainstay in '90s teen movies — served to anoint a new member of a high school's popular clique. Pictured here, Rose McGowan's Courtney and Judy Greer's Fern (renamed and rebranded as "Vylette").

From the tight pencil skirts to the exposed seams in stockings, every detail in 'Jawbreaker' was meticulously crafted to convey the characters' emotions and story arcs. The color palette for each character reflected their personalities, with Courtney in regal ice blue and Julie transitioning from dark pleather to denim.

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The Power of Fashion as a Storytelling Device

In 'Euphoria,' the clothes become a powerful storytelling device, echoing the retro motifs of 'Jawbreaker' while remaining fashion-forward. Costume designer Vikki Barrett's meticulous approach to creating unique costumes, from thrifted pieces to custom-made garments, sets the tone for each character's journey.

The transformation sequences in 'Jawbreaker' and other '90s teen movies, like the iconic makeover of Fern Mayo into 'Vylette,' serve as pivotal moments in high school narratives. The fashion choices not only reflect the characters' evolution but also highlight themes of power dynamics and identity.

The Aspirational Aesthetic of Teen Dramas

Despite the exaggerated and sometimes disturbing fashion choices in 'Jawbreaker' and similar teen dramas, the aspirational nature of these aesthetics has endured over the years. The over-the-top and daring looks continue to inspire new generations, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality.

The evolution of fashion in teen dramas reflects larger societal trends, with young people embracing anti-aging products and procedures while also seeking authenticity and self-expression. The fusion of fantasy and reality in fashion storytelling resonates with audiences, sparking conversations about identity and beauty standards.