By Shari Chase

Fans of Friends were devastated when they learned that their favourite show would no longer be available on Netflix in 2020. Since 2015, Friends has had its place on Netflix and remained popular, even making a record in 2018 as the second most-streamed show.

So, it’s no wonder that people were ecstatic to find out that Friends were planning reunion special scheduled for May 2020 on HBO Max, which has unfortunately been delayed. With the reunion to look forward to, it only seems fitting that we take a moment to reflect on one of the most memorable characters from the series – Rachel Green. 

Rachel is by far one of the most popular characters on Friends because of her relatability. From struggling with love to trying to find a style that she loved on a limited budget, so many could connect with her. One fashion writer described Rachel as one of us, the girl we all want to be, “a girl who lusted after designer things on a tight budget and still managed to keep up with the trends of the time…” Her iconic style has lasted for decades and is still a source of inspiration today. Although unmistakably 90s, her fashion sense is timeless because of its effortless minimalism and understated, laid-back, realness. It still appeals to many fashion-forward people today. 

Here are some of her iconic looks that are still in style in 2020.

High Waisted Jeans

High waisted jeans and a t-shirt were a staple Rachel outfit. From their start as the “go-to” style in the 60s and 70s, high waisted jeans have been on a steady revival.

They are one of the best styles to wear for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to: their comfort, their ability to complement many body types, the fact that they don’t fall down or drag on the ground, and they come in a wide range of colours, prints, and designs. 

Overalls/Dungarees

Overalls remind me of my childhood days, but they are also back in style. They are the perfect thing to wear when you need a quick and easy outfit or want to keep things casual. Simply layer them with a t-shirt or a jacket, and you have a complete outfit.

These days overalls can fit into almost any style profile due to the wide variety of options out there. Today they come in different lengths and colours, with rolled or straight cuffs, wide or straight legs, or distressed fabric to create a unique look. Or, you can go with the classic Rachel style and wear a “shorterall minidress”.

Cropped Tops

Crop tops can be intimidating, but with some confidence, there are many ways to wear this trendsetting piece. Rachel had fuzzy cropped sweaters, cropped turtlenecks, and cropped tees that she wore with her high waisted jeans, miniskirts, and pleated skirts. Others pair the top with high waisted shorts, track pants, tailored trousers or just top it off with a cute jacket. 

White Sneakers

My mom never let me have all-white sneakers because she was afraid they would get too dirty. Personally, I still think white sneakers are an iconic classic.

Rachel Green often wore them with countless outfits because she knew that they can go with practically anything. Super comfortable and practical, they are a great addition to any wardrobe. 

Slip Dresses

Slip dresses get their names because of the way they resemble a traditional under slip or petticoat. They are very simple, but elegant dresses that can be dressed up or down depending on the event. Rachel wore them with a fancy jacket and shoes to attend formal events, or they doubled as casual wear with a pair of platform flip-flops. Either way, Rachel rocked them and you can too!

Fashion trends come and go over the years, often as a result of nostalgia and our desire to return to a “better time.” We look to the past for inspiration and to embrace the feelings evoked by those fashion trends. But regardless of the reason, only the best of the best trends get recycled time and time again. A quick Google search of “Rachel Green’s style” brings up tons of hits and is an indicator that she was truly a fashion icon whose simplistic sense of style will not be forgotten for a while.

I recently saw a t-shirt with the words: Flirt like Joey, Dress like Rachel, Cook like Monica, Live like Phoebe, Care like Ross and Joke like Chandler – great rules to live by! Even today, trends started by her years ago still have their place in our fashion arena. Whether you’re looking for something that’s 90s chic or classically modern, Rachel Green is someone to emulate.

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