These Charlotte York Outfits Perfect the Ultimate Luxury Upper East Side Capsule Wardrobe

Although decades-old, her elevated style is more relevant than ever.

outfits collage of Charlotte York (Kristin Davis) from Sex and the City
(Image credit: Future)

While many Sex and the City (SATC) fans champion Carrie Bradshaw as their fashion icon, I’ve always considered Charlotte York my style muse—and I’m not the only one. Search the term “Charlotte York outfits” on TikTok, and you’ll discover hundreds of viral tutorials on replicating the character’s ladylike aesthetic, and you’ll likely find her uniforms plastered across countless mood boards on Pinterest.

Meticulously crafted by costume designer Patricia Field, Charlotte’s on-screen wardrobe features polished essentials like trench coats, sharp blazers, and corporate-inspired tailored trousers. Her style undoubtedly trends toward quiet luxury and ‘90s-era minimalism, which is certainly why I’ve fallen head over heels for her fictional closet. But Charlotte's penchant for pared-down separates with a stealth wealth flair is never dull—always mixed with statement pieces and maximal accessories, like a sweater vest layered under a pink leather jacket trimmed in shearling.

More than anything, though, Charlotte’s sense of fashion is practical, boasting capsule wardrobe staples that are just as relevant now as when SATC first aired nearly 27 years ago. Inspired by her elevated approach to dressing, I’ve curated a collection of 12 Charlotte York outfits to recreate this winter. As the weather begins to warm up, you’ll find a few looks you can carry into the following season.

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Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a pink shearling jacket, a black skirt, tights, and knee-high boots

Even a staunch minimalist like Charlotte likes to experiment with whimsical getups every once in a while.

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

Next time you decide to head out for a cup of coffee, follow Charlotte’s lead and dress up for the occasion with a bold layer that is sure to make heads turn. Keep the rest of your outfit subdued with a simple black skirt and knee-high boots.

Ultra Ladylike

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a buttoned coat, balck pumps, and a black mini handbag

A glimpse into Charlotte’s assortment of clothes and accessories will reveal her love for vintage-inspired pieces.

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

Whether intentional or not, Charlotte’s taste often mirrors Jackie Kennedy’s iconic style. Take the outfit pictured above, for example, which showcases a timeless trench coat, retro power pumps, and a glossy designer handbag with an archival square-like silhouette.

Always Streamlined

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a white short-sleeved turtleneck, a black skirt, a watch, and sunglasses

Although undoubtedly simple, this look makes quite the impression.

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

Time and again, Charlotte proves that looking put-together doesn’t have to be complicated. According to the stylish city dweller, all you really need is a black-and-white outfit styled alongside hardware-adorned accessories.

Errand Ensemble

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a tweed jacket, jeans, and pumps

Give your athleisure outfit a break and try this look instead.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

Not even a laid-back trip to the grocery store can stop Charlotte from getting all dolled up. If you’re in a sophisticated mood, consider trading your errand-friendly loungewear set for a tweed jacket, a pair of dark-wash jeans, and sweet kitten heels.

Date-Night Dressing

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a white coat, a scarf, a purple top, jeans, and heels

Add this look to your rotation of date-night outfits, and thank Charlotte later.

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

For a casual ice cream outing with her beau Harry Goldenblatt, Charlotte wore a cozy lavender sweater, a buttoned cream coat, and a pair of straightforward black trousers. However, her floral satin scarf was the star of the look.

All in the Accessoires

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing gray wrap coat, jeans, heels, and a pink bag

A tiny pink bag can go quite a long way.

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

If you’re inclined to spruce up a neutral-toned outfit, Charlotte would do it with an eye-catching accessory. Her choice? A feminine pink handbag that offers a pop of color.

Corp-Core Poster Girl

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a burgundy cardigan, glasses, and trousers

No one masters office-friendly outfits quite like Charlotte.

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

“Corp-core” might be a modern term, but Charlotte York practically invented this look decades ago. To embody this workwear-oriented style, wear a buttoned cardigan, wide-leg pants, sleek slingbacks, and Bayonetta glasses.

Cold-Weather Uniform

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a houndstooth coat and white boots

Brighten up a frigid and dreary day with a joyful coat.

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

In Charlotte’s world, a black-and-white houndstooth coat is more than a statement layer; it’s an essential. If you decide to recreate this wintery look, let the color palette of your checked coat set the tone for the rest of your outfit.

Lovable LBD

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a black lace dress, a black shawl, and black heels

An LBD belongs in every single closet, and that’s not up for discussion,

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

If you examine Charlotte’s wardrobe, you’ll see a variety of little black dresses, but this one trimmed in delicate lace is my absolute favorite. When temperatures warm up, I plan to copy this look with a lightweight scarf and barely-there strappy sandals.

Reliable Blazer

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a gray turtleneck and a black jacket

When it comes to a plain black blazer, the styling options are endless.

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

When she’s not covering her shoulders with a lady jacket or a refined coat, Charlotte can be spotted in an elegant blazer. Take style notes and coordinate your layer with a soft turtleneck and a ‘90s-esque slip skirt.

She Means Business

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a black jacket, a printed skirt, heels, and a handbag

You can always count on Charlotte to convey a professional message with her clothing.

(Image credit: Everett Collection)

As a qualified art dealer, Charlotte never fails to look the part in polished pieces like structured jackets and pencil skirts. This look will round out your rotation of work outfits, and you’ll find yourself wearing it on repeat.

Cocktail Hour

Kristin Davis as Charlotte York wearing a navy blue dress

Slip into this number for your next upscale outing.

(Image credit: Getty Images)

If you’re struggling to navigate a cocktail dress code, allow Charlotte’s style to serve as your compass. Pair a ritzy square-neck dress with a pearl necklace, a shimmering luxury watch, and of course, a martini glass filled to the brim.

Lauren Tappan
Fashion Editor

Lauren is the Fashion Editor at Marie Claire, where she writes trend reports, shopping pieces, and celebrity news stories. Prior to Marie Claire, Lauren worked for Harper’s Bazaar and ELLE as a freelance editor with a specific focus on seasonal styles and coveted products. She also worked for Town & Country, where she developed a robust portfolio of fashion roundups and designer profiles.

Lauren graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a bachelor’s degree in communications and a minor in journalism. While attending Penn, Lauren contributed to the university's fashion magazine, The Walk, while also interning for Philadelphia Style Magazine and EveryStylishGirl.

When she’s not exploring the world of fashion, you can find Lauren sharpening her skills as DJ, discovering new restaurants in New York City (she’s a foodie), and spending quality time with friends and family. Follow her along at @laurenktappan.