The Cosby Show’s Denise Huxtable, portrayed by Lisa Bonet, was the epitome of the Bohemian Chic darling. Her flair for fashion combined with a personal style synonymous with 90’s trends and groovy 70’s-inspired prints–even more so perpetuated by her carefree persona–was embraced. The pop culture phenomenon of which her style became iconic was partly due to the work of the show’s costume designer Sarah Lemire, who was also the mastermind behind the iconic “Cosby Sweater.”
Yves Saint Laurent was incredibly accurate in saying, “Fashions fade, style is eternal.” More than two decades after the show’s end, women are still channeling the Denise Huxtable look in more ways than one. From her ability to mix prints and patterns effortlessly to embellished adornments on fedoras and blazers, it’s clear why her style continues to be adored. Whether you’re in need of a look for Coachella or desire new vintage-inspired digs to add to your wardrobe, here’s our guide to channeling Denise’s eclectic sense of style. –Kamille Cooper
Photo Credit: ABC, Shop Style
The Printed Pant
Denise had a knack for mixing the most eccentric and vibrant prints and making them look good. One of her most standout fashion picks were the printed bottoms she wore. Egyptian, Aztec or tribal-inspired pants or shorts are the perfect pick for your trip to Coachella this year.
Our Picks
1. Free People FP ONE Floral Paradise Pant, $98
2. ASOS Sweatpants in Tie Dye, $53
3. Rachel Comey Sweeper Pant, $449
4. Top Shop Boutique Floral Print Silk Joggers, $160
The Hippie Blouse
Those standout print bottoms Denise wore were the perfect match for the silk-patterned button-down blouses she donned. Wear your printed top with your favorite pair of boyfriend jeans or tuck it in to your stylish pair of mom jeans.
Our Picks
1. Blue Moon The Dress Shirt, $128
2. Regina Porter Silk Psychedelic, $68
3. Rachel Comey Cowrie Shirt, $336
4. Top Shop Premium Paisley Boxy Shirt, $68
The Trail Blazer
Way back when, shoulder pads were definitely in, even hip so to speak. Whenever Denise dropped in rocking an oversized blazer, with emphasis on the shoulders, she styled it so creatively. Rocking a chic over-sized blazer with a printed button down, turtleneck or bandeau top is the perfect choice for creating a nostalgic masterpiece.
Our Picks
1. Silent by Damir Doma Jehl Blazer, $302
2. Sam & Lavi Rere Blazer, $305
3. Top Shop Ponte Boyfriend Blazer, $80
4. CÖ Metallic Tweed Oversized Blazer, $39
The Free-Spirited Preppy Primp
Before it was deemed “The Carlton,” a la The Fresh Prince, Denise was rocking out in button downs with a sweater over the shoulder. Without being seemingly Beverly Hills preppy, grab your favorite Chambray shirt and a tribal or character-printed sweater to create a preppy look with a hippie flair.
Our Picks
1. Lira The Darling Top, $46
2. See By Chloé Chambray Shirt, $295
3. Mad Love Aztec Moon Cropped Sweater, $82
4. J. Crew Harmony Chunky Knit Sweater, $268
The Statement Accessory
Denise had a way of adorning the most dope accessories and making them into her own. For instance, rocking a scarf as a belt rather than around her neck is on of our favorite DH style moments. Let’s not also forget the statement pins of feather embellishments on her headgear and blazers. The statement accessory is always a wardrobe necessity.
Our Picks
1. Badacious Monkey Magic, $48
2. Yumnah Najah Aida Beaded Necklace, $72
3. Chanel Patchwork Purse, $3,080
4. Stephan Schneider Joao Scarf, $205
The Crop Top & Bandeau
That statement accessory necklace you purchased a while back needs a companion in the form of a bandeau or crochet crop top. It’s also the perfect pick for the summer road trip with your favorite gals.
Our Picks
1. See You Monday The 14 Karat Bandeau, $6
2. Free People Tassel Fringe Crochet Tank, $70
3. Free People Vintage Open Crochet Tank, $198
4. Mara Hoffman Frida Half Cover Up Top, $165