Sure, Will Smith was cute, and Carlton's dance moves made us laugh, but for most episodes we couldn't see past Hilary Banks' wardrobe in TheFresh Prince of Bel Air. Played by Karyn Parsons, Hilary did a pretty good job of hogging the limelight, blessing us with immortal lines like, "Hi daddy, I need $300." Her fleeting stint as a weather woman was stellar, her shopping skill was well honed, and her engagement to Trevor Collins was superb. But it was her wardrobe, that of the ultimate '90s power woman — she did land an eponymous, nationally televised talk show, after all — that was truly show-stopping. In honor of the original Mean Girl, we've delved into the Hilary Banks archive and dug up her finest, most '90s outfits around. Between her too-cool-for-school styling and a hat game that deserves its own show, Hil's style has us asking but one question: Cher Horowitz, who?
A classic Hilary ensemble: A nautical-style hat, drop pearl earrings (with a matching pearl necklace), and a strong-shouldered, teal and baby pink suit.
This velvet cloche hat is made all the better with a coordinating choker. Her longline scarlet blazer and maxi skirt make genius proportion play.
One of Hil's more dressed-down looks. We're pretty sure you could find this entire outfit at American Apparel today, The deep-V tee and high-waisted denim shorts are giving off that chic summer camp vibe.
Is there anything more '90s than this picture? The terracotta backdrop; the side-stool pose; the mossy lace maxi skirt; the yarny knit. John Hughes, eat your heart out.
What's better: The pink and black tailoring, or that facial expression?
This head-to-toe cherry skirt suit is taken to boss level by the front split and chunky gold choker.
Ah, #TBT to the days when hats (and waistcoats) were Pinterest-worthy.
She won prom queen, right?
A Pepsi-blue turtleneck dress that's both shoulder-padded and belted. Because, why not?
Uh-huh, honey. This cream-colored suit has Hil looking like a beige boss.
A giraffe-printed shift looks better with tall patent boots.
Jessica Rabbit levels of sass.
A spaghetti-strapped LBD is Hilary's relaxed weekend look.
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