20 Celebrities Who Heavily Influenced American Fashion And Started Trends
Fashion is ever-changing, and we are influenced every day by the people around us and their style.
Some celebrities do more than wear clothes, they shape what everyone else wants to wear next. From sharp suits and glamorous gowns to bold accessories and unforgettable red carpet looks, a few stars have left a lasting mark on American fashion.
This list brings together twenty celebrities whose style choices helped define entire eras, whether through movie roles, music videos, public appearances, or everyday street style. Some became known for timeless elegance, while others pushed fashion into louder, riskier territory that fans could not ignore.
From old Hollywood legends to modern trendsetters, their influence still shows up in closets, runways, and pop culture today. Read on.
1. James Dean
James Dean is known for his white t-shirt, jeans, and leather jacket. This style became iconic and was embraced by people of all genders.
John Kobal Foundation/Hulton Archive/Getty Images2. Jackie Kennedy
Jackie Kennedy brought a youthful feel to the White House. She was often seen in Chanel suits and monochromatic looks, accessorized with pearls.
Michael Stroud/Express/Getty Images3. Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn is one of the most recognized fashion icons. She is infamous for making 'the little black dress' a staple for women.
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4. Marilyn Monroe
Marilyn Monroe is another name we all know and recognize. She is best known for her look featuring a white, flowy dress with a plunging neckline.
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5. Diana Ross
Diana Ross is known for her playful looks, always bringing an elegance to every outfit she wears.
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6. Cher
Cher is famous for wearing feathers, barely-there dresses, and sequins. Bella Hadid and Dua Lipa continue to keep this fashion style alive today.
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7. Elton John
Elton John is renowned for his fashion sense, particularly his Los Angeles Dodgers outfit. His style features bedazzled items and outrageous accessories.
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8. Farrah Fawcett
Farrah Fawcett was a significant inspiration for 70s fashion. She was one of the first fashion icons to incorporate athleisure into her wardrobe, making brands like Nike a part of everyone's regular style.
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Speaking of fashion legends, Annabel Schofield’s Dallas fame is remembered after her battle with cancer.
9. Prince
Prince is known for many things, but his style is undoubtedly one of the most memorable aspects of his persona. He infused flare, ruffles, sparkles, and color into every outfit.
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10. Madonna
Madonna is recognized for many of the infamous outfits she has worn, including the Jean Paul Gaultier cone bra.
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11. Grace Jones
Grace Jones was the Cardi B of her time. She consistently pushed the boundaries of fashion by wearing extravagant clothing, strappy outfits, and monochromatic looks.
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12. Selena Quintanilla
Selena is a singer who was proud of her body and known for her fashion style as well as her voice. Her most infamous and memorable looks include high-waisted jeans paired with a bedazzled bustier top.
AP Photo/Houston Chronicle, Dave Einsel, file
13. Mark Wahlberg
Mark is well-known for his fashion sense, having modeled for Calvin Klein. This particular modeling photo has been replicated many times on social media.
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14. Brooke Shields
Brooke's style took off after she became an advocate for Calvin Klein. She typically wore preppy styles of clothing, figure-accentuating items, and button-ups.
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15. Aaliyah
Aaliyah was one of the first women to truly showcase her streetwear style. This R&B singer also loved to accessorize with anything she could, including sunglasses, jewelry, and bandanas.
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16. Gwen Stefani
Gwen Stefani is known for her daring style and unique combinations. She is never afraid to push the boundaries of fashion.
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17. Lady Gaga
Lady Gaga is known for her outrageous and unique outfits. From bright-colored clothing to meat-inspired ensembles and crazy accessories, Lady Gaga has shown us what fashion is all about.
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18. Paris Hilton
Paris Hilton is recognized for her style. She tends to rock a more dainty, girly aesthetic and has been seen wearing tracksuits, delicate dresses, and literally anything pink.
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19. Rihanna
Rihanna has been seen sporting streetwear styles, dramatic red carpet looks, and high-fashion designer items.
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20. Billy Porter
Billy Porter is known for pushing the limits of fashion and wearing statement pieces that carry meaning. Clearly, Billy is not afraid to break the 'rules' of fashion.
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Fashion is a remarkable phenomenon and could arguably be considered entertainment, given how we judge red carpet outfits. We are fortunate to have had some truly amazing fashion icons in our time, as they have made a significant difference in fashion and body positivity, which continues to resonate today.
Want more red-carpet drama? See who turned heads in Best-Dressed Stars At Oscars 2026.
