It doesn’t take much to prompt me to rewatch Friends for the billionth time, I was born in the ‘90s after all. So, when I spotted someone on Instagram wearing the exact vintage John Paul Gaultier dress worn by Lisa Kudrow's Phoebe Buffay in season 5, episode 15 (confession, I did have to look this up) it piqued my interest. So, after settling down for yet another a Friends binge, all in the name of research, of course, I came to a conclusion: Phoebe is definitely the best dressed character. Sure, I’ll always want Rachel Green’s work wardrobe and Monica’s perfect blue jeans (and retro sweatshirt collection come to think of it) but Phoebe’s beautifully bizarre style packs a little more punch, and it seems I’m not the only one who thinks so.
A quick scan across the socials, and you’ll soon see the Buffay’s influence on fashion aficionados regardless of which ‘Gen’ category they fall into. The recent influx of street style snaps from Copenhagen Fashion Week further backs this theory, as eclectic prints, art teacher-esque jewellery and funny little crochet accessories reigned supreme.
With plenty of autumn/winter '25s biggest trends aligning with Phoebe's wardrobe, it’s easy to see why we’re inadvertently dressing like her. Note everyone’s obsession with wearing bandanas and cord pendant necklaces, both a mainstay of Buffay's accessories collection, or boho, one of the biggest trends of the year, is totally Phoebe Buffay coded from the fringed suede jackets to Penny Lane coats. Even the season 9 cow print clogs (purchased from 'the late' Shania Twain) certainly wouldn’t look out of place on any fashion girlies Instagram dump.
So, as we enter into autumn, embrace those chaotic prints and add a little Phoebe into your wardrobe…
www.desigual.com
Long sleeve printed tops, plucked straight from the '90s, are a new season staple. Think clashing colours and hazy florals.
www.freepeople.com
We're entering into jumper season, opt for oversized fits with plenty of character.
www.etsy.com
Pendant necklaces are a staple for 2025, layer up for a real Phoebe Buffay aesthetic.
www.vestiairecollective.com
Eagle eyed Friends fans will have spotted Phoebe Buffay's John Paul Gaultier's Cyberdot leggings from the early seasons.
www.ancient-greek-sandals.com
Cow print has quickly become one of the fashion pack's favourite prints.
hades-shop.co.uk
Consider eclectic, arty printed knits and cardigans to upgrade your outfit.
www.selfridges.com
A Pheobe inspired outfit is not truly complete without a pair of excessively clompy leather boots.
www.pilgrim.net
Layer pendant necklaces over simple tank tops or chunky knits for an instant outfit upgrade.
Look to fine knit or gauzy cardigans to add a '90s feel.
www.harveynichols.com
Mix and match prints for an eclectic feel, Reformation's jersey tank top nails the brief.
www.freepeople.com
You might remember Phoebe's bright orange Penny Lane coat, try Free People's sell-out velvet version that does just the trick.
Julia Harvey has been Grazia’s shopping editor for both print and online for over four years, overseeing and editing all things shopping for the title from trend pages, interiors, gift guides and the best things to buy now.