You’re invited… to take a tour of Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen’s most iconic fashion moments in film! Since their Full House debut, America’s favorite twins have served us late ‘90s and early 2000s realness for over a decade. Every Olsen film has featured a unique location around the globe, and these wild adventures heavily influenced the fashion choices of each character portrayed. Whether you’re planning a dream vacation to the tropics or looking to upgrade your seasonal wardrobe, the following films are sure to inspire your next Olsen-approved outfit.
By Bailey Cho / @baileyhcho
‘Passport to Paris’ (1999)
French food, French fashion and French boys… what’s not to love about Paris? When their parents send them off to the city of love during spring break, Mel (Mary-Kate) and Ally (Ashley) plan their own rendevouz with adventure, ditching the strict itinerary their grandfather set for them. Along the way, the twins befriend French fashion model, Brigitte, who takes them on a Parisien shopping spree (cue fashion montage)! They also meet two charming French boys who whisk them away to tour the city via moped.
With all these exciting experiences, Mel and Ally definitely need chic ensembles to match, and in true Mary-Kate and Ashley fashion, the movie’s clothing choices reflect the youthful spirit of two boy-crazy tweens during the late ‘90s. In every shot, the twins are coordinated perfection, wearing simple silhouettes and superb accessories.. To achieve this look, experiment with different combinations of a basic camisole (blue or pink depending on your inner Olsen), beaded choker, and mini handbag. Here’s to looking like a late ‘90s Limited Too catalogue model, in the most effortless, “it-girl” way possible!
‘Our Lips are Sealed’ (2000)
After witnessing the robbery of the priceless “Kneel Diamond,” Maddie (Mary-Kate) and Abby (Ashley) are forced to enter the Witness Protection Program. Unknown to them, the diamond falls into Abby’s bag, and later becomes the charm on her signature black choker. The twins move to Australia with new identities, and two assassins are sent to retrieve the jewel. The film quickly becomes a wild goose chase. The sisters steal cars, set up traps and run all over Sydney. Of course, it wouldn’t be a true Mary-Kate and Ashley adventure without some ‘strayan’ slang, dreamy surfer boys and an iconic landmark montage.
The twins sport tropical colors and fun florals to match the beach-like vibe Down Under. The addition of accessories — bucket hats, thick headbands and tiny sunglasses —are perfect for blocking the Australian sun. Their fashion choices remain comfy-casual, in case they need to bolt away from assassins; however, they exude an effortless, sporty-chic vibe. To get the look, choose a floral halter-neck dress and pair it with your favorite sporty hair accessory. You get extra points for adding your own diamond choker!!
‘Winning London’ (2001)
When Chloe (Mary Kate) and Riley (Ashley) are selected to represent their school at the International Model U.N. competition in London, they embark on the once-in-a-lifetime trip we all wish we could have experienced in high school. From having a mock sword fight at the Globe Theatre to a wistful romance with the son of a British nobleman, the twins are living the Euro-tourists’ dream, while perfectly styled for each thematic mood.. At its core, the movie focuses on taking chances and appreciating the fun in life — a mantra that all of us can embody.
Without question, “Winning London” should be a major inspiration for your entire fall wardrobe. Compared to their Passport to Paris days, Mary-Kate and Ashley’s fashion definitely matures to complement a new chapter in their lives. For this film, soft earth tones and endless layers are practical choices that correspond with the London climate, and the girls shake off their Los Angeles roots to commit to ‘the London look.’ If you want to look fresh off the “Winning London” set, pair a turtleneck with low-rise patterned pants, throw on a classic trench coat, and bundle up in your favorite knit scarf. A muted color palette will indicate that pumpkin spice season has officially arrived.