Fashion

How To Dress Like Elle Woods, America’s Favorite Harvard Student

A ‘Legally Blonde’ Style Icon

This summer marks a very special anniversary—15 years since Legally Blonde first hit theaters.

Back in 2001, Elle Woods, everyone’s favorite Harvard Law student played by Reese Witherspoon, won over our hearts with her smarts, wit, and flawless head-to-toe pink ensembles. We admire her for always being polished and poised (except for that brief chocolate-filled moment after Warner dumped her, but we’ll make an exception in the name of heartbreak). I mean, she single-handedly solved a murder trial with her knowledge of perms, and accompanied by her killer confidence and dazzling smile, what’s not to love about Elle?

Always dressed to the nines, with her equally style-savvy canine companion Bruiser in tow (may he rest in peace), there’s something about the bubbly blonde that I’m drawn to (quite possibly due to the fact that both Elle and Bruiser, like myself, are Gemini vegetarians). More than a decade later, I find that there’s something about Elle Woods that should be honored.

However, 15 years are forever in the world of fashion, and her iconic style could use a bit of an update. We recreated four of Elle’s most memorable looks from the movie, from her courtroom dress to the preppy ensemble that she wore to first day of class.

Click through the gallery and learn how to emulate Elle Woods in a very 2016 way.

Photo via Type A Films.

The Courtroom

Elle's case-winning belted look is perfect for a job interview or any professional fashion situation.

Photo courtesy of Diane von Furstenberg.

Diane von Furstenberg, Irina Silk And Chiffon Combo Wrap Dress, $498, available at Diane von Furstenberg.

Photo courtesy of H&M.

H&M, Small Shoulder Bag, $9.99, available at H&M.

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.

SJP by Sarah Jessica Parker, ‘Katrina’ Pointy Toe Block Heel Pump, $350, available at Nordstrom.

Photo courtesy of Lele Sadoughi.

Lele Sadoughi, Globe Pendant, $115, available at Lele Sadoughi.

Photo courtesy of Barneys.

Fallon, Rotation Double Pearl Wire Cuff, $395, available at Barneys.

Photo via Type A Films.

Date Night

Lots of glitzy pink things? Check. Making sure that you're date isn't as big of a tool as Warner? Check.

Photo courtesy of Nordstrom.

Leith, V-Neck Sheath Dress, $68, available at Nordstrom.

Photo courtesy of NYLONshop.

Nadia Gabriella, Ella Clutch, $250, available at NYLONshop.

Photo courtesy of ASOS.

ASOS, Harmonise Heeled Sandals, $77, available at ASOS.

Photo courtesy of Kate Spade.

Kate Spade New York, Chantilly Gems Statement Necklace, $228, available at Kate Spade New York.

Photo courtesy of NYLONshop.

Gasoline Glamour, Glitter Heart Ring, $26, available at NYLONshop.

Photo via Type A Films.

First Day Of Class

Elle toned down her look just a bit for her first day of class at Harvard. Still, her ensemble encompasses subtle hints of pink (as do her school supplies, of course). This is a perfect outfit for a back-to-school situation or any day at the office.

Photo courtesy of Ann Taylor.

Ann Taylor, Begonia Lace Flounce Dress, available at Ann Taylor.

Photo courtesy of Vince.

Vince, Lightweight Ponte Side Slit Vest, $375, available at Vince.

Photo courtesy of Topshop.

Topshop, Stripe Skinny Scarf, $22, available at Topshop.

Photo courtesy of Coach.

Coach, Jill Flat, $175, available at Coach.

Photo courtesy of Swarovski.

Swarovski, Crystalline Lady Ballpoint Pen in ‘Fuschia,’ $35, available at Swarovski.

Photo via Type A Films.

For Laying Outside

Whether you're chatting with new classmates before class or picnicking with friends in the park, this is the perfect look for those warm spring days spent lofting on the grass.

Photo courtesy of Pixie Market.

Pixie Market, Stripe Denim Off The Shoulder Top, $36, available at Pixie Market.

Photo courtesy of Zara.

Zara, Cropped Trousers With Front Pleat, $69.90 available at Zara.   

Photo courtesy of Opening Ceremony.

Mansur Gavriel, Mid-Heel Suede Mules, $475, available at Opening Ceremony.

Photo courtesy of Rebecca Minkoff.

Rebecca Minkoff, Unlined Tote, $275, available at Rebecca Minkoff.

Photo courtesy of Urban Outfitters.

American Needle, Washed Canvas Baseball Hat, $24, available at Urban Outfitters.