6 Movie and TV Characters That Are Back-to-School Style Icons

Creating that perfect capsule wardrobe for college is easier than ever this year with a little help from our fave university icons. Class, it’s time to turn our attention to (and take inspiration from) the it-girls who came before us. Before Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and the like, there were movie and TV characters who redefined the college-woman aesthetic forever. Ahead, check out six iconic ladies of (pretend) higher education from whom you’ll most definitely want to steal a few tricks. Consider this your college style cheat sheet.

Denise Huxtable (The Cosby Show / A Different World)

All hail the eclectic style queen of college! Lisa Bonet (middle) as free-spirited, wild-child Denise on The Cosby Show and the first season of A Different World was pretty much the epitome of cool. Whether she was rocking locs or wild curls, camo or floral, Denise just gave off the air that she actually gave no f**ks what anyone thought of her look. Master her sartorial swagger with a slew of mismatched patterns and prints, perfectly worn denim, and a variety of vintage toppers in the mix. Confidence in who you are? We’re so here for that.

Whitley Gilbert (A Different World)

At the other end of the fashion spectrum was Bonet’s A Different World castmate, Jasmine Guy, as the incomparable Whitley Gilbert. An entitled Southern belle who started out snobby but eventually evolved into someone who wanted to land more than just an M.R.S. degree, Whitley’s polished look (particularly for a college student) is the stuff of TV legend. Turtlenecks, pearls, tailored blazers and perfectly placed hair bows were her hallmarks, and she wore them like the boss-lady-in-training she was. Whitley rocked labels like Chanel, Ferragamo, and Gucci on the daily, so keep an eye out for a little luxury inspo for your back-to-school shopping list. Get it, girl. (Photo via NBCU/Getty)

Felicity Porter (Felicity)

Having followed her crush to college across the country from California to New York City, Felicity Porter (Keri Russell) was the wide-eyed ingenue you couldn’t help but love. Even as her style evolved throughout the series from Converse Chucks and slouchy backpacks to endless cashmere sweaters and ’90s era denim. Scarves were an important component of her look, but at the end of the day, she was always easy-going and unfussy with her fashion. Felicity never let her clothes wear her, which is an important style lesson to learn. (Also, #TeamBenForever) (Photo via Touchstone Pictures/ABC via Getty)

Jenny Cavalleri (Love Story)

Perhaps the most classic college style icon of all time, Ali Macgraw’s Jenny Cavalleri in Love Story is forever remembered not only for her tragic plotline but for her ultra-chic wardrobe that inspired a generation. Gorgeous coats, ribbed turtlenecks and a sleek middle part were her trademarks. And if you’ve ever worn a knit beanie with your locks framing your face on either side, well, you’ve pretty much got Jenny to thank. Now, pass the Kleenex, please. (Photo via Paramount/Getty)

Elle Woods (Legally Blonde)

Aside from gifting us the “Bend and Snap,” which would be reason enough to give thanks, Legally Blonde bestowed upon us the unapologetically bold style icon of Elle Woods, played by Reese Witherspoon, of course. From her colored lenses (currently experiencing a revival) to her ability to work satin, sequins, and pink into any outfit (day or night), Elle taught us that you don’t have to look — or be — like everyone else to be successful and that fashion should be, above all else, fun. Let’s hear it for the girl! (Photo via Tracy Bennett/MGM/Getty)

Lelaina Pierce (Reality Bites)

Okay, so technically, she was just post-college, but regardless, Lelaina Pierce (Winona Ryder) was pretty much the epitome of 90’s style. Her shaggy pixie cut, her thrift store dresses, her chunky shoes: They all scream Gen-X angst and “I actually woke up like this.” Her effortless, messy-chic vibe also perfectly sums up the confusion many post-grads feel in the real world — and she makes it look good (just check out her smokin’ red tank and jeans look in the infamous gas station scene). (Photo via Universal/Getty)

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Blake Lively was just spotted living her best life vacationing in Capri, Italy donning the cutest one-piece swimsuit – in perhaps one of the most unexpected colors for the season!

Miss Blake took a break from filming A Simple Favor 2 to board a boat (jealous!) wearing a bold coral swimmie from Gooseberry Intimates – and I was immediately convinced 2024 is finally the year of one-piece swimsuits. Ugh, her power!

Unlike most celebrity style we're seeing these days, Blake's swimsuit is super easy to track down and is fairly accessible price-wise. Below, find all the details you need to know about Blake's one-and-done vacay look before you snag the ultimate swim staple for yourself.

Shop Blake Lively's One-Piece Swimsuit

Gooseberry Intimates One Piece in Coral

This $99 swimsuit from Gooseberry Intimates is downright flirty. Just look at that plunging neckline! The v-neck effect is overwhelmingly sultry and sexy, so there'll be no doubt that you'll feel confident AF every beach or pool day you wear it. No wonder celebs like Blake Lively, Sydney Sweeney, Kendall Jenner, and Vanessa Hudgens love it!

The bottom half of the suit boasts a cheeky cut with a playful high leg that adds a flattering elongating effect on your legs. Since it's specifically crafted to sculpt your figure, there are no annoying cups or inserts to mess with, plus the material is double-lined for additional peace of mind!

The suit comes in sizes XS-XL and is fitted with thin adjustable spaghetti straps so you can find your perfect fit. The solid color opens doors for endless styling possibilities, whether you wear it with a swimsuit cover-up to prep for the pool or with a flowy maxi skirt on dry land. You can also shop it in 14 other hues, from key lime green to royal blue.

With solid TLC, this Gooseberry Intimates swimsuit can last you years and years (and years). Now that's what I call a good investment. According to the brand, "each garment is hand dyed, cut and sewed to order," so you can get excited knowing this one-piece was made just for you.

More Must-Have Summer Suits From Gooseberry Intimates

Gooseberry Intimates One Piece Cutout Black

This luxe-looking black one-piece swimsuit is also made from figure-sculpting materials that hug you in in all the right places. Compared to Blake Lively's coral swimsuit, this one has a bit more coverage up top and on the bottom. The double-lined fabric swarms the entire suit with comfort and coverage, including the bust and the medium-coverage brief areas.

The exposed back and keyhole cutout in the front are sure to turn all heads toward you. The scoopneck suit flexes some sleek gold hardware: a ring in the front, and an adorable little tag on the back for added elegance.

This chic cutout piece comes in 6 other colors, so you're bound to land on one that fits your vibe the most. It's shoppable in sizes XS-XL for $99!

Gooseberry Intimates One Piece Tank Baby Pink

This one-piece is probably my favorite of them all. Sure, the square neckline feels less revealing up top, but the style is still super sexy with high legs and a cheeky brief cut. Plus, I just can't resist baby pink!

This pick is crafted with Gooseberry Intimates' signature double-lined fabric for added modesty (love it!), and it comes in especially handy for wearing lighter colors like this subtle pink.

The thin, adjustable straps don't feel intrusive, which is great for when you're strolling along the sand or dipping your toes in the pool. It comes in sizes XS-XL and 5 other eye-catching colors for $99.

Gooseberry Intimates Sculpting Top Rum + Bikini Bottom

This bikini top feels like it's inspired by vintage lingerie, and I'm ​very ​here for it! The seaming on the underwired bust is reminiscent of your classic balconette bra, except this suit flaunts a tad more coverage. You're easily able to find your perfect swimsuit fit with the help of adjustable straps and a back clasp closure. 

The double-lined bottoms, on the other hand, aren't adjustable, but stretch accordingly to your shape. They are perfectly mid-rise and cheeky, with a flirty high-cut leg in tow. While I adore this rusty red color, this set also comes in black, white, royal blue, and baby pink. 

This bikini is currently shoppable in sizes XS-L. The top is $55 and the bottoms are $45. ​

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more celebrity style! Find even more editor-approved picks with our One-Piece Bathing Suits roundup.

Images via Gooseberry Intimates.

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We might just be getting into the holiday spirit, but for the Radio City Rockettes, it's been Christmastime since September! In addition to a very enlightening game of This or That, twins Caitlin and Courtney Sullivan gave Brit + Co an inside look at what it's like to be a Rockette — and what they do the rest of the year. Consider this the perfect trivia for your Christmas dinner after you've mastered that Rockette red lip ;).

Here are 12 surprising things about being a Radio City Rockette.

1. Rehearsing for the Christmas season is a full-time job.

MSG Entertainment

Once the holidays roll around, the Radio City Rockette shows might last 90 minutes, but prepping for the season is a full work week. "The rehearsal season itself is six weeks long, six hours a day, six days a week," Courtney says. "So it is a long process and I feel like the rehearsals itself are like a bonding experience for us."

2. The Radio City Rockettes get some serious bonding time.

MSG Entertainment

"You spend a lot of time with the girls around you and within Radio City, our dressing rooms too," Courteney says of the Rockette rehearsal schedule. "I feel like that's the time when you really get to form those bonds with your sisters and really create magic that can be seen on stage too."

"Yeah, once we move into Radio City, this becomes your family, truly," Caitlin adds. "We spend every day, day in day out together, we spend the holidays together. So you naturally just become very close with everyone."

Each Rockette dresses up her getting-ready station.

MSG Entertainment

"Everybody dresses up their station to make it feel very homey," Caitlin says. "I like lots of like decor and festive lights, candles, all that fun stuff."

The women love to have treats in their dressing rooms!

MSG Entertainment

I'm literally snacking on a chocolate bar as I type this, and I'm not the only one who likes to have sweets on-hand! "I love Christmas cookies," Caitlin says. "We will do something with our dressing room and bring in treats every day. I feel like someone's bringing in something new."

The Radio City Rockettes perform up to 200 shows at Christmas.

MSG Entertainment

"The Rockettes perform up to 200 shows in a season, and the way that each show feels so special and individual, it's just amazing how you never know who's out in the audience seeing the show for the first time," Courtney says. "And the way the ladies in the line put their best foot forward every single time is so inspiring and made me want to give even more."

"It just really amazes me how dedicated and how hard working all the Rockettes are," Caitlin agrees. "And I think we always knew that, but then once you're in it, you have a whole new level of respect for how hard all these women work."

And each Rockette can perform in up to 4 shows a day!

MSG Entertainment

"I think sometimes people don't realize we can do up to four shows in the day, which is unreal and amazing," Caitlin says. "That might be a surprise to people when they're coming to a show. They might think we just have that one that day, but we actually might have two, three, or four in the day, which is pretty amazing."

But the Rockettes also find time to goof off.

MSG Entertainment

The Rockettes might be known for their precision, but Courtney promises their smiles are real! "We are having so much fun," Courtney says. "It's really just an amazing feeling to be on stage and we find times to laugh and joke around, but really obviously give our all to our craft. And I think people don't realize like we are really having an amazing time on and off stage."

The Radio City Rockettes really support one another.

MSG Entertainment

As you can imagine, a career as a Rockette comes with its challenges, but the ladies on the line always support each other. "I was really proud last year was our first season together and just to complete one full season is such an accomplishment," Courtney says. "I feel like we're ready to take it on again and know like we absolutely can do it. And with the support of everyone around us too, you know, you're going to get through the entire holiday season and you're gonna come out even stronger."

The Radio City Rockettes can work a bunch of jobs during the summer.

MSG Entertainment

The Rockettes have a busy schedule during Christmas — but that doesn't mean they kick up their feet the rest of the year! "Every person on the line has a very diverse background and they go to different job opportunities throughout the year," Courtney says. "People are pulled in different directions when the holiday season is over. The Rockettes do work year-round [with] different opportunities."

"We're always looking to continue to dance and work on our precision," she continues. "The summer though, our favorite thing is to go to the beach. We're from New Jersey and the Jersey shore is like our home. So if we're not dancing, you can definitely find us relaxing on the sand."

The best thing about performing New York City can also be the most challenging.

MSG Entertainment

You know how, when people talk about New York, they say, "If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere?" That's because it's hard to live here y'all!

"This is just the city that never sleeps," Caitlin says. "There are people everywhere. It's always alive. There's just something magical about New York and I love that. And I think that could come with the biggest challenge as well: the city that never sleeps. You feel like you're going, going, going at all times. But that's pretty exciting to do at our age, living out our dreams. I feel like that will never get old."

"I feel like we have no complaints here!" Courtney adds.

Even as a Radio City Rockette, the work is never done.

MSG Entertainment

"I feel like there's always room for improvement," Courtney says. "Even today, as we're living at our dream, we're continuously working on our technique and our precision and going back to our foundation, I think the work is never done and you can continue to dream and accomplish some of those really major goals."

"Yeah, the work is never done is I think is kind of our motto," Caitlin adds. "Just keep, keep pushing, keep driving and just keep dreaming. And never give up."

The Rockettes are like one big family.

MSG Entertainment

Just like so many of our favorite TV show and movie casts, the Rockettes love to bond! "The Rockettes truly feel like a sisterhood and we are so lucky that we are real sisters on the line together," Caitlin says, adding that to dance "with your sister is everything we always hoped for."

And those connections make a magical experience like New York at Christmas even more magical. "[To] be welcomed with open arms has been such a dream come true for us," Courtney says. "We just love the holiday season and to celebrate it at Radio City, I feel like I can't imagine anything better."

Read 35 Magical Photos Of Christmas In New York To Inspire Wanderlust for even more holiday cheer!

Copyingcelebrity stylecan feel really out of reach. A lot of times, what the Taylor Swifts and Hailey Biebers of the world are wearing is cute, but simply out of the budget, and we have to go hunting for dupes! But not with Free People! Many of our fave “It” girls share the same love we have for the Free Peoplebrand, and have been spotted donning their pieces everywhere from grocery trips to the ‘gram.

We’ve got the inside scoop on what exactly our fave celebs are wearing from Free People. Scroll to steal their looks for the low!

Love Letter Cami

As seen on Taylor Swift

We're constantly taking notes on Taylor Swift's style, and our list begins with this adorable tank top that Tay was spotted wearing in a pic alongside Geraldine Viswanathan! This super-stretchy top also comes in a darker gray, blue, white, black, and brown and sizes XS-XL for $38.

Photo by Weiss Eubanks / NBCUniversal

We The Free Jayde Flare Jumpsuit

As seen on Kelly Clarkson

Kelly Clarkson looked so amazing in this Free People denim jumpsuit she wore on her show in January 2024! This one-piece is made from a stretchy material that fits like a glove, but still moves with you comfortably. The snatched waistline and flared legs flatter your figure even more! This versatile (and verycowgirl-core) Free People pick is also available in black, white, brown, red, and a few other denim washes in sizes XS-XL for $158.

Good Karma Onesie

As seen on Hilary Duff

We admire Hilary Duff's street style because it's super relaxed, but still has a touch of her personality. This bold onesie from Free People's Movement line that Hilary was spotted wearing is the perfect foundation for a casual atheleisure 'fit. It's made from a thicker ribbed material that hugs your bod in all the right places, even if you're breaking a sweat at the gym. It's equally appropriate for weekend festivities, like hitting the farmer's market or grabbing brunch with the gals.

The Good Karma Onesie is shoppable in 10 other colors and sizes XS-XL for $98.

Image via @haileybieber on Instagram

Three Day Weekend Tank

As seen on Hailey Bieber

In true clean girl fashion, Hailey Bieber likes to keep things simple. Case in point is this lightweight Free People tank she was seen wearing to promote her eyewear collection with Vogue Eyewear in 2023! Though it's no longer available in the spicy red color she sported, the Three Day Weekend Tank is still a great staple piece to add to your wardrobe. It can be layered among other pieces you already have, or worn on its own for hotter days. It's now available in pink, gray, or black in sizes XS-XL for $20!

Karina Sweater Set

As seen on Selena Gomez

We're happy to report that Selena Gomez is a fellow comfy gal like us (we've been eyeing the We The Free Old West Slouchy Jeans ever since she wore them)! She was seen sporting the Karina Sweater Set while posing with a fan, and this pick is definitely something we could live in year-round. This matching set pairs an oversized long-sleeve top with high-waisted, wide-leg bottoms for a seamless duo that can be easily worn separate, too. You can snag it in 4 other colors in sizes XS-XL for $108 right now.

Sailor Mini Dress

As seen on Ashley Benson

Actress Ashley Benson was rockin' this mini dress earlier this year, and it's been living rent-free in our minds since it's so adorable! The Sailor Mini Dress flaunts a babydoll-inspired fit with striped stitching details and a darling open back that ties with a bow. Ashley styled it with some black loafers and black sunnies to brave some warm weather, but this can also be styled easily with sandals or boots, too. This pick comes in this black color or a light yellow shade in sizes XS-XL and costs just $70.

Image via @brielarson on Instagram

Onda Drop-Waist Tube Midi Dress

As seen on Brie Larson

Brie Larson's Instagram account is everything to us. She flaunted this Free People dress on her feed in the cutest way possible, posing outside with some strappy striped ballet flats on her feet. Talk about total outfit inspo! The drop-waist and flowy midi skirt on this strapless Free People tube dress give it a wonderful, whimsical feel for summertime. The Onda Drop-Waist Tube Midi Dress comes in 4 other fun colors and sizes XS-XL for $78.

Hit The Slopes Printed Pullover

As seen on Lucy Hale

Actress Lucy Hale has been spotted in Free People numerous times, and often, what she's wearing is uber-comfy. This pullover is no exception, and it looks like the ultimate piece for a lazy day! The Hit The Slopes Printed Pullover is fully fleeced, with a quarter buttoned neckline and a convenient side pocket that zips up. We are obsessing over this unqiye tie-dye colorway (the shade Lucy originally wore – a cool blue-green – is sold out), but it also comes in a few different floral and color blocked designs. Shop it in sizes XS-XL for $168.

Image via @whitneyeveport on Instagram

We The Free Ryder Sport Vegan Moto Jacket

As seen on Whitney Port

Whitney Port's ensemble of a basic tee + classic jeans + Adidas sneakers is screaming cool girl! She topped off her 'fit with this vegan leather moto jacket from Free People to add a layer of sportiness, and it's so cute. The jacket is made for a slouchy fit and features color-blocked details for eye-catching effect!

We The Free Good Luck Mid-Rise Barrel Jeans

As seen on Sienna Miller

Actress Sienna Miller was spotted out for a stroll earlier this year with her family, wearing these Free People barrel jeans. Though divisive, barrel jeans are the comfiest jeans of all with wide, breezy legs and a loose-fitting waistline. These mid-rise bottoms are shoppable in 13 different colors and sizes 24-33. Snag a pair for $98!

Easy Street Tunic

As seen on Jessica Alba

For a celeb-inspired piece that you can wear literally every day (it's so cozy, you won't want to take it off), take notes from none other than Jessica Alba! She was seen out and about while donning this tunic top in black, but it also comes in white, cream, blue, green, and marigold. The fabric is lightly ribbed for a soft touch on the skin. This wear-everywhere top comes in sizes XS-XL for $128!

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There's one popstar who's ready to get her "love on" — Selena Gomez is engaged! And in addition to Taylor Swift throwing her hat in the ring for flower girl and Hailey Bieber seemingly sending love to the happy couple, Selena continues to feel great as we get closer to the big day. Here's the latest news on Selena Gomez & Benny Blanco's engagement, because I simply can't get enough.

Here's how Selena Gomez's feeling after her engagement to Benny Blanco — and how they celebrated.

Benny Blanco's proposal to Selena Gomez proves how well he knows her.

Benny Blanco reportedly popped the question on December 11, and we know from Selena's photo dump that the engagement began in a park with a Taco Bell picnic. And honestly? I've never had more respect for someone. And ever Selena Gomez's ring found its permanent home on her finger, sources says she's been "glowing."

“They’re so supportive of each other,” a source tells People. “He wants the best for her and she wants the best for him. They’re perfect together. They really are.”

These two know each other inside and out, and considering Benny Blanco grabbed Sel's favorite meal from Taco Bell, the proposal proves it! "It was very her," another source says. "It was a total surprise to Selena."

It's those tiny moments that are the most romantic to me because they prove you're willing to go the extra distance on tiny details other people would overlook. "Benny and Selena were so excited to share the news right away with their loved ones," the source continues, mentioning that the couple had an "impromptu gathering" with some friends and family members after Selena said yes. "It's such a true partnership between them."

And Selena Gomez has talked about how much Benny Blanco means to her.

Selena Gomez has spoken about how much Benny means to her, saying "he is my absolute everything in my heart" in the comments of an Instagram fanpage, while Benny told Howard Stern in May 2024 that he couldn't imagine his life without Selena in it. "I just know that when I look at her, I just say, ‘I don’t know a world where it could be better than this.’ That’s what I always say to her.”

And in March 2024, Selena Gomez posted the sweetest tribute for Benny's birthday, honoring his "emotional endurance, positive disposition, unbelievable talent (that blows me away), undeniable humor and loving, kind heart." Now they get to spend every birthday together!

Check out Hailee Steinfeld and Josh Allen's amazing proposal pictures for more celebrity engagement goodness.

If Gilmore Girls andThe Marvelous Mrs. Maisel have shown me anything, it's that creator Amy Sherman-Palladino always has an incredible story up her sleeve. Her new show Étoile, which is coming to Prime Video, promises to be a beautiful and sophisticated look at the world of dance, and if the fact that it's from Amy wasn't enough reason to watch it, it's also Prime's first new show to get a two-season order! Here's everything we know about the series.

What is the next Sherman Palladino show?

Writer/Producer/Director Amy Sherman-Palladino, Writer/Producer/Director Daniel Palladino seen at Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life premiere.Eric Charbonneau/Netflix

Following our beloved Gilmore Girls and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Dan and Amy Sherman-Palladino's next series is Étoile, which is set at two world-famous ballet companies in New York City and Paris. When both companies run into some trouble, the decide to swap their most talented stars in a last-ditch effort to save themselves.

And based on the first set leaks from New York City, it looks like Étoile will definitely be packing on the drama. This short clip shows Luke Kirby standing outside Lincoln Center in a serious conversation (probably about the fate of his ballet company, TBH).

"Well, guess that plan for early retirement will have to wait," Dan and Amy said in a joint statement (via The Hollywood Reporter). "Instead, we’ve decided to embark on an international journey with an unbelievable group of players and the most talented ballet dancers in the world. We will sleep when we’re dead."

But this isn't the first time ASP has forayed into the world of ballet! Her ABC Family series Bunheads (which premiered on June 11, 2012) follows Michelle (Sutton Foster) who moves to her hometown of Paradise and starts working at her mother-in-law's dance studio The Paradise Dance Academy.

Who will star in the new show?

Photo via WB

The best part is that the role of Michelle's mother-in-law is played by Emily Gilmore herself, Kelly Bishop!

When does Étoile premiere?

Anya Juárez Tenorio/Pexels

We don't have an official release date yet, but considering THR recently revealed the show will finish filming soon, we're hoping to see Étoile in 2025. Just like Gilmore Girls is the ultimate fall rewatch, maybe Étoile will be the ultimate winter rewatch!

Who's in the Étoile cast?

Luke Kirby attends the The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Finale Celebration at the Fonda Theater in Los Angeles on Mon, May 22, 2023. Todd Williamson/JanuaryImages/Prime Video

So far, we know that Étoile will star Luke Kirby, Gideon Glick, Camille Cottin, Simon Callow, Lou de Laâge, and David Alvarez. Yanic Truesdale, who played our favorite Gilmore Girls concierge Michel, has also joined the series as a recurring character! I'm so excited to see Yanic working with Amy Sherman-Palladino again — it's like a Gilmore Girls reunion!

What does Étoile mean?

Jeremy Thomas/Unsplash

Étoile translates to "star," and there are so many different connections here! We have the ballet stars themselves, but you also wish upon a star and reach for the stars when you're working towards a dream. If you ask me, Étoile is the perfect name for this series.

How many episodes does Étoile have?

Merve Sehirli Nasir/Unsplash

The first season of Étoile will have eight episodes total, but considering Prime Video ordered two seasons, we'll definitely be getting more episodes.

Are you excited to watch Étoile? Check back here for the latest news on the series, and stay updated on your favorite TV shows and movies on our Facebook!

This post has been updated.