It’s been two years since Netflix decided to add Girlfriends (2000) to their ever-growing library. That’s definitely enough time to have binge-watched this timeless 2000s sitcom and made sense of who the true villains (hint: it’s Joan!) and secret sweethearts of the show are. But, more importantly, time to revel on the sound life lessons and heartfelt sisterhood that makes the show a classic.
Over two decades after its premier, our world and the screens that recast our stories look widely different. A groundbreaking sitcom on Black sisterhood and camaraderie, featuring an all-female black leading cast and the trials and tribulations of their daily life, Girlfriends paved the way for the likes of Issa Rae’s Insecure and Tracy Oliver’s Harlem while still remaining as relevant today as it was back then.
One thing we can agree on is the characters’ flawless noughties style that perfectly matched each leading lady’s unique personality. Whether you’re more of a Joan, Toni, Lynn or Maya - what exactly might your favourite Girlfriends character say about you?
Do you picture yourself in Toni’s confident shoes?
Everyone’s favourite material girl Toni Childs might divide popular opinion but there’s no debating her impeccable sense of style and quick wit. A far cry from her country roots, Toni’s resourcefulness gets results (at least, according to her real estate slogan) and although conceited at times, like most of us, the insecurities behind this are what make her so real.
We can all agree that Toni was THAT girl, despite her indiscretions. Sleek ponytail, full fringe or bombshell blowout, she pulled it all off and left no crumbs. If you’re on the fence about changing up your look in a drastic way, take a leaf out of Toni’s lengthy book of hairstyles and you won't go wrong.
Are you more the Joan of your group?
The glue that holds this dynamic girl group together, Joan has many sides to her. A fierce over-achieving corporate lawyer, loyal friend and hopeless serial dater, her determined tunnel vision when it comes to her goals - professional and otherwise - is what makes and breaks this character.
As the certified mother hen of the group, Joan was constantly serving natural looks (no surprise Tracee Ellis Ross now has her own natural hair line) to match her nurturing energy. This character conquered the classic wash and go and you can certainly do the same.
Did you have a soft spot for Maya?
Maya’s journey from teen motherhood and steadfast wifey to successful self care author was not one without its trials. If you find yourself self identifying with Maya then have no fear (and definitely give yourself some grace). A traditionalist at heart, her character growth reveals an enduring and open spirit that eventually finds her footing through a balancing act of showing up for others by pouring into yourself.
If we're being honest, Maya was for the weave girls. A classic leave out is her go-to throughout the seasons and even more on trend today. Get her perfect 2000s look with a smooth leave out and body wave bundles.
Maybe you fit Lynn’s bohemian flair?
Lynn is always down for a good time. Fun, outgoing and slightly immature, you could call her free-spirited (or indecisive). She’s constantly marching to the beat of her own drum or simply marching for a good cause. Lynn might not have a clue what she wants to do with her life but that doesn’t mean she stands for just anything.
Let your hair down! If you’re looking to channel Lynn’s carefree aura, why not try letting your locs down and wearing something less styled. We also feel like she would have eaten up the goddess braids trend but not before an effortless boho braids moment, a la Zöe Kravitz.