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The Queen’s Gambit first premiered on Netflix in late October and quickly took over the #1 spot for the most-watched series. The show is based on the 1983 eponymous novel by Walter Tevis. The story begins in the mid-1950s and takes viewers into the 60s as Beth Harmon, an orphaned chess aficionado, rises to fame while dealing with substance dependency and emotional trauma. The plot, the writing, and the character development will keep you hooked until the very last episode, but we can’t overlook Beth’s absolutely incredible wardrobe.
Throughout the show, we experience a brilliant transition from 1950s blouses, long pleated skirts, and white bobby socks to a much more mod, London-inspired look that consists of mini skirts, Peter Pan collars, funky patterns, and of course, the iconic winged eyeliner.
Here are just a few of our favorite looks from the show, with some inspiration pieces to recreate Beth Harmon’s retro style.
Oh, So Audrey!
Does it get any more classic than black trousers and a slouchy sweater? This comfy combo is effortlessly chic, especially black-on-black paired with a pointed-toe shoe. If minimalism isn’t your thing, these pieces are versatile enough to be layered with all the color and funky prints you want.
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Get the look: Emmy Mock Neck Sweater, $78 (click here) / Olivia Green Chunky Sweater, $49.99 (click here) / Skinny Black Ankle Pant, $35 (click here)
Pretty in Pink
Statement coats are major trending pieces this fall/winter that we don’t see going away any time soon. Here are just a couple of the beauties we see Beth Harmon serving looks in. A statement coat is a perfect way to add a little something extra to the elegant simplicity of a neutral dress. Pair this ensemble with Mary Jane flats and you’ve got another effortlessly timeless outfit.
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Our picks: Threadbare Coat in Dusty Pink, $59.00 (click here) / Influence Peter Pan Collar Mini Dress, $38 (click here) / Wool Knit Coat, $139.99 (click here)
Librarian Chic
Give us all the plaid jumpers, ruffled blouses, and midi skirts. Librarian chic is less of a style that can be described, and more of a style that must simply be embraced. Finish it off with a kitten heel for a bit of sass.
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Our picks: Novel Citizen Jumper, $49.99 (click here) / Ruffle Yoke Top, $84.50 (click here) / Corduroy Midi Skirt, $29.90 (click here) / Get With It Sweater, $54 (click here)
A Little Shifty
The Queen’s Gambit simply wouldn’t be a 60s period piece without a shift dress or two. A shift dress is another essential piece to have in your closet that is, say it with us, effortlessly chic. Shift dresses can be worn as is if you fancy a straight silhouette, or they can be paired with a skinny belt to cinch your waist in. Either way, we’re all about Miss Harmon’s mod vibe.
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Our picks: Denim Shift Dress in White, $78.99 (click here) / The Dots Must Be Crazy Shift Dress, $79 (click here)
Whether you have yet to watch the series or you’re impatiently awaiting the announcement of a second season, there is no denying costume designer Gabriele Binder dressed each and every character in detailed, story-driven outfits that help make Beth’s world seem real. Pair the incredible wardrobe with a plot rich in female empowerment, and that’s a checkmate in our book.