Friends’ final episode was broadcast in 2004. But even after all these years, its late ’90s/early ’00s style is still totally wearable. Rachel Green, for example, was a character who won our hearts with her witty humor, charming personality and her wardrobe of Bloomingdales suits, floral slip dresses and denim staples.
We’re probably still looking at Rachel’s outfits because of the resurgence in Y2K fashion. We are always looking for new ways to wear baby tees and long socks. Platform flip-flops and plaid skirts have also made a comeback. This comfort show is a great way to get fashion ideas. If we could, we’d try to copy the looks of each character.
We’ve rounded up Rachel Green’s best outfits to show that they’re still relevant today and tomorrow.
A White Top with Plaid Skirt
NBC
Rachel Green’s best outfit? The white top was styled with a plaid skirt and knee-high socks, and the chunky black heels completed the look. This look incorporates several current trends, including pleated miniskirts and light academics. It’s fine to recreate it from top to toe (although people may notice the reference).
Addition of a Blazer
NBC
If your outfit is lacking something, throw on an oversize blazer of a different color. This will give your basic outfits the pop they need, or dress up a pair of old jeans.
Overalls with a T-Shirt
NBC
The overall is often regarded as a juvenile piece, but it can actually be dressed up or down depending on your mood. If you want to wear something casual and easy, Rachel suggests wearing a pair of blue denim overalls with a bright t-shirt, then finish the look with sneakers.
Monochromatic Theme
NBC
Stick to a single colour. It will elevate and unify your look. Rachel’s monochromatic looks were some of her most memorable, but you don’t need to wear a skirt suit. Style your white cardigans with white jeans or wear every shade of green. It’s okay if the pieces don’t match exactly. Sometimes it’s even cooler when they don’t.
A Pastel Dress
NBC
If you want to embrace color and leave the neutrals behind, consider investing in some pastel pieces. Rachel’s mint-green dress is a statement piece, but it does so in a subtle manner. This look is perfect for both a romantic evening date and daytime activities.
Transitional Layering
Gary Null/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal/Getty Images via Getty Images
Try Rachel’s outfit for a day that is neither too hot nor cold. Grab a pair or short overalls, or even a pair of jeans! Style them with a shirt that has long sleeves and a lightweight jacket. You can wear whatever you want, but simple white sneakers or Dr. Martens booties are always a good choice.
A Baby Tee with Loose Pants
J. Delvalle/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal by Getty Images
Sweatpants are a staple in our wardrobes. Add a graphic cropped T-shirt to your favorite pair of sweatpants and platform flip-flops to make them feel more like casual wear. Rachel would approve. Gen Z will too.
Oversized Trousers
NBC
In an unexpected turn of events trousers have proved to be as versatile as jeans. Style a slightly baggy high-waisted pair of trousers with a solid-colored top for a stylish, low-effort off-duty look.
Classic Workwear
NBC
Rachel’s wardrobe seemed to be filled with endless office outfits. But button-downs or black skirts can easily transition from day to evening, especially if they are paired with knee-high booties and a few undone buttons.
Plaid Pieces
NBC/Newsmakers
We love plaid clothes (skirts and pants). If you want to avoid a preppy look, try styling these pieces in bold colors or with designs that show off your skin. Rachel achieved both with her bright green tank.
A Slip Dress with Printed Design
Gary Null/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal/Getty Images via Getty Images
Slip dresses are as versatile as LBDs. They’re easy to style, comfortable and sexy. Rachel’s patterned dress is perfect to wear alone with sandals or over a long sleeved shirt with boots.
Gingham print
Gary Null/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal/Getty Images via Getty Images
Gingham is a timeless print that never feels dated. Gingham is a summer must-have, whether you wear it on shorts, a dress or pants. If you want to wear it all year, however, consider a cropped shirt with a gingham collar. These prints will spice up solid staples and can be mixed with other prints like polka dots or leopard.
Cargo Pants
NBCU Photo Bank
Rachel has found the perfect middle ground between jeans and sweats. Olive green cargo pants are a great option. Pair them with a short-sleeved, printed button-down shirt for an outfit that’s perfect for vacation.
A pair of track pants
J. Delvalle/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal through Getty Images
It’s time to change things up. Track pants and sweatshirts are like peanut butter with jelly. You can elevate your bottoms and make them look more stylish by wearing a knit or shest.
A Denim Skirt
NBCU Photo Bank
Denim skirts have returned to the fashion scene, thanks in part to celebrities. While Rachel’s style with a thigh slit is fun, it’s not necessary that you stick with this particular style. You can also wear maxi skirts and frayed mini designs, just like you would your favorite pair jeans.
Platform Slides and Boot-Cut Pants
NBCU Photo Bank
Why not embrace the aesthetic of the ’00s? Platform slides will help you transition from these bottoms to the warmer months. A duster sweater, on the other hand, is the statement piece that completes Rachel’s Y2K outfit.
A Sexy Cardigan
NBCU Photo Bank
Rachel’s sweater was worn over a t-shirt. She used the one-button style that models are unable to give up. Skip the bottom layer and go for a bralette to make this look sexier.