“Ugh! As If!” Marni Channels 90s Cult Classic ‘Clueless’ With Their Fall 2023 Collection

Those who viewed Francesco Risso’s 64-piece Fall 2023 collection for Marni said it reminded them of Alice in Wonderland, McDonald’s, or a watered-down Marc Jacobs collection. Instead, my mind went to one thing and one thing only: Cher Horowitz and Dionne Davenport from the 90s cult classic, Clueless.

Rex via British Vogue

Marni FW23 via Vogue Runway

Within seconds of look two—a bright yellow check blazer with a lighter yellow check dress underneath and black and white check socks in white pointed-toe slingbacks—stepping foot on the runway, it was clear to me that this collection displayed the film’s modern-day wardrobe. You could ask just about anyone what they picture when they think of the 1995 film starring Alicia Silverstone, and they’d all say, “Cher in her yellow plaid blazer and pleated mini skirt.” Well… maybe not those words exactly, but you get the gist. And therefore, I’m surprised nobody mentioned Clueless when referencing the fashion show held on February 1 in Tokyo.

Despite the yellow check printed pieces closely resembling Cher’s most iconic look, I couldn’t help but notice that quite a few looks paralleled other outfits and characters from the film. Specifically Dionne, with her more jewel-toned wardrobe with pops of deep red.

CBS via People Magazine

Marni FW23 via Vogue Runway

This was made evident as the show transitioned from yellow to red, with monochromatic looks. A thin knitted boat neck mini dress with a structured collared shirt underneath was the most noteworthy red look. Admitting it’s not a replica of Dionne’s velvety red ensemble, it poses as more of a modern and contemporary take on her wardrobe.

Paramount Pictures

Marni FW23 via Vogue Runway

Marni FW23 via Vogue Runway

Later on, the same blazer and dress set—as look two—in white sauntered down the runway, reminding me of Dionne’s plaid blazer and skirt, but with a more androgynous feel. Layered under scarves and coats with the same check pattern were suits and dresses, complemented with collared skirts peeking through. The perfect preppy look mixed with sharper and more exaggerated silhouettes posed as an incredible transition from the 90s to present-day fashion.

Mona May, the costume designer for Clueless, did an incredible job of styling a collection of looks that have stood the test of time. The fact that yellow plaid is synonymous with Cher Horowitz is just another reason why the cult classic still inspires fashion. And though it’s unclear if the film had any influence on Risso’s collection, as a viewer, it’s obvious that the resemblance is uncanny.