The Costume Designer of Clueless Commemorates 30 Years of the Film's Legendary Fashion

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      For legendary costume designer and author of The Fashion of Clueless, Mona May, her passion for fashion began early on. "As a child, I was always drawing," May shared. "I drew princesses and various outfits." Throughout her upbringing, May lived in multiple countries, and this experience greatly influenced her. "I believe it had a significant impact on me and how I perceive things," May said. "In my early childhood, I got to see saris and vibrant colors, which I adored."

      In the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, May discusses how she began her career in Los Angeles, her experiences while working on Clueless, and more. For highlights from their conversation, continue reading.

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      (Image credit: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures) I'm curious about how you ended up in costume design and whether it was always your aspiration.

      As a child, I loved to draw. I illustrated princesses and various outfits. I grew up in diverse countries. Born in India, I lived there until I was three, then moved to Poland and Germany. I was always surrounded by different cultures.

      I think those experiences had a strong influence on me and shaped my perspective. In my early years, I experienced the beauty of saris and vibrant colors, which I loved immensely. This early influence has left a significant mark on me.

      I was the child who loved drawing, and fortunately, my parents supported my passion. I had the opportunity to engage in art as a child, and my dream was to become a fashion designer. So, I pursued that. I studied in Europe, visiting Paris, Milan, and London, but ultimately, I became enchanted by the fashion scene in the United States, particularly New York and California. I went to fashion school in LA.

      During my time at school, I had friends in the USC film school, and one day, they approached me, asking, "We're making a thesis film. Do you have clothes?" I replied, "Absolutely! What do you need?" From that moment on, I was captivated. It was fascinating to create characters and dive into the psychology of who they are—it was about so much more than just fashion.

      (Image credit: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures)

      It's incredible that this became your path. Clearly, Clueless marked a significant moment for you.

      It felt like a dream come true because it combined my passions for fashion and film. When Amy wrote the script, we had previously collaborated on another project, and I felt a creative connection with her. She truly was my creative soulmate. When she wrote Clueless, she called me and told me, "This job is perfect for you. It incorporates everything. It has colors. I want it to be vibrant and fun. It needs to be fashion-forward, and you have to create styles that people haven’t yet embraced."

      Working on something that melded both of my passions was incredibly exciting.

      (Image credit: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures)

      (Image credit: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures)

      Is it surreal to see that the styles you created for the film have significantly influenced current fashion? How does it feel to witness that reaction?

      It’s astounding. Truly. This is something you can’t anticipate. The feeling is phenomenal because I carry a part of the fashion designer within me. To know that I've influenced trends through the film is remarkable.

      Consider Cher's gym outfit—the white t-shirt under a black tank top. People didn’t wear that before; now it’s a staple in many wardrobes.

      (Image credit: Courtesy of Paramount Pictures)

      Whenever I watch the film—especially during recent screenings—it's incredible to see kids dressed up and still inspired by its fashions.

      Fashion transcends generations. You have moms who watched the movie as teenagers in the 90s now in their 40s, 50s, or 60s, and young kids who also appreciate it. It’s amazing that the fashion has stood the test of time and continues to inspire.

      When you view the film, the fashions remain very wearable and relevant, and in many ways, timeless. I take pride in that aspect. I believe I bring this viewpoint into all my films—the timeless elegance reminiscent of Sophia Loren from the 50s or the iconic black dress from Breakfast at Tiffany’s. These pieces are ones you can wear and feel fabulous in—the peacoat, beret, and A-line skirt. They remain essential wardrobe staples that have transitioned beautifully over the years, maintaining femininity.

      Continue scrolling to purchase Mona's book and find some Clueless-inspired pieces.

      Barnes & Noble

      The Fashion of Clueless

      Banana Republic

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