Mean Girls: A Fashion Evolution comparing 2004 to 2024 Styles

instyle2324
Jan 30, 2024
2 min read

MAHAK CHAUNDRY for MacInStyle

Monday January 29th 2024

20 years. Two WHOLE decades. That’s how long it’s been since the release of the original Mean Girls movie. Does that make you feel old? It definitely hits me, considering it’s almost the entire span of my existence. When I first heard that there was going to be a remake, I was curious to see how the movie would adapt from early-2000s fashion to modern day trends. For those of you who haven’t seen it yet, be prepared, because it is a musical and there's a song every 2 minutes…..I wish I knew.

Let’s delve into the Plastics. The ultimate IT girls Karen, Gretchen, and Regina.

In the 2004 movie, the Plastics consisted of mini skirts, graphic tees, high-heels, and the ultimate Y2K fashion. The 2024 movie takes a different approach where high-waisted pants, cargos, corsets, and loafers are commonly seen. When reflecting on the portrayal of the Plastics in the OG 2004 movie, I associate them with glamor and luxury conveyed through their accessories, such as the heels and purses. In contrast, the 2024 movie adaptation doesn’t evoke the same sense of fashion sophistication for me as it looks more like fast-fashion trends, as opposed to timeless fashion.

I believe the Plastics would embody a combination of the clean and coquette aesthetics, where the coquette style includes elements like pink bows and miniskirts, while the clean girl aesthetic features slick back buns and chunky high-end jewelry, creating a modern-day sense of luxury. Pretty ‘fetch’ if you ask me.

Also, if you missed it (which I think is impossible because of the amount of product placement), the 2024 Plastics loved using E.L.F. cosmetics. We love that for them!

Get in loser, we’re moving on to the next friend group!

I liked the continuity seen in the fashion of Damian, Janis, and Cady from the 2004 to 2024 movies. We can see parallels in the wardrobes for Cady with the plaid, jeans, and more relaxed wardrobe. I loved the concept of Janis and Damian narrating the movie at the start and the end, as it gave a cool spin to the movie.

While I am a die-hard 2004 Mean Girls advocate, I love the inclusivity seen in the modern adaptation. The 2024 Plastic exhibits greater diversity, with Avantika playing Karen as a South Asian actress, and a broader range of body types being represented.

All in all, the new movie brought back the nostalgia from the OG Mean Girls and definitely showed how within the last 20 years, there have been significant changes to society. I would give it a watch if you have the time but make sure you bring a lot of snacks because you WILL need something to distract yourself from all the singing.

Until next time!