What is with the millennial and Gen Z obsession with everything 2000s and the world of Gossip Girl? The iconic show first appeared on our screens in 2007, becoming a nostalgic staple for many.
Gossip Girl was more than a TV show, it was a cultural phenomenon that resonated deeply with viewers. When it premiered, the show drew an audience of 3.5 million people and became the highlight of conversation among high school and college students. The series peaked during season two, reaching over 3.7 million viewers. The show developed a strong following and won numerous awards, including 18 Teen Choice Awards. From Blair’s iconic headbands to Serena’s style, the show heavily influences teen fashion and drama. Whether we can or can not afford designer labels, everyone wants to imitate the popular Upper East Side look.
Most have not lived the lifestyle of Manhattan’s elite, but Gossip Girl provided a view through the window of a world that many dream of. It allows the youth to fantasize about living that life through the character’s adventures. The New York Times reported that the show dramatically impacts how young women spend their money, with fans bringing magazine sheets to boutiques to recreate character looks. Designers like Anna Sui created lines inspired by the show’s aesthetic. People watching today are brought back into the revival of the Y2K style and inspiration of the bold outfits Blair and Serena wear.
Warning: Spoilers for the show ahead. Gossip Girl is all about the scandals of its characters. Whether it’s Blair’s scheming, Chuck’s unhappiness, or Dan’s secret identity as Gossip Girl, the show is full of plot twists that keep it personal. The show has even inspired the revival of flip phones. Many people on TikTok are buying flip phones inspired by the designs in the show, and they have even become a cute accessory to many people’s outfits.
Gossip Girl nailed its soundtrack, featuring the indie pop vibe of the 2000s, with hits from artists like The Kills, MGMT, Lana Del Ray, and Florence + The Machine. Rewatching the show means rediscovering older songs. For many viewers, hearing the soundtrack is as nostalgic as seeing Blair and Serena walk through Manhattan.
Our generation’s obsession with Gossip Girl and the 2000s comes from a longing to live in an iconic and glamorous time period. Gossip Girl was a mix of nostalgic and timeless drama. It is a cultural standard that shows hopes and dreams during that time. As people binge-watch the series multiple times, it’s obvious that Gossip Girl’s ability to capture us is as enduring as the secrets revealed.
