It’s been 10 years since the first Twilight film. Here’s how to dress like its lead character today.
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Love it or hate it, you have to admit that the Twilight franchise is a true cultural phenomenon. It’s been 10 years (!!) since the first film was released and we’re still no closer to a winner in the battle of “Team Edward” vs. “Team Jacob”.
But man candy aside, one thing we can agree on is that many of you seem to love the main character Bella Swan (played by Kristen Stewart) and her effortless style. We first talked about Bella’s wardrobe back in 2009, so given the ten year anniversary of the film, we thought it was high time we post an updated guide to her style.
Read on to find out how you can dress like Bella today – you never know, maybe you too will capture the heart of a handsome but troubled teen vampire and/or werewolf.
Bella’s style is very low-maintenance, yet she still looks gorgeous at all times. Everything has a pretty yet effortless “I just threw it on” look to it. While it is clear that Bella would much rather stare at Edward all day than spend hours getting ready (who can blame her), she does have a specific sense of style.
Here we break down Bella’s wardrobe essentials, as well as show you two outfits that you could see Bella wearing on a typical day in Forks.
Bella’s wardrobe is very straightforward and simple. She has a wide array of long sleeve henleys and tops to shield her from the cold of Forks. Bella often sticks to neutrals and cool colors such as blues, greens and whites, but I mixed it up by adding a few colors such as red and electric blue. She’s also known to rock the typical Seattle button-down plaid shirt.
When it comes to copying her style, the main thing that you should focus on is to make sure your top is laid-back. Casual tops are a Bella staple.
Since Bella lives in a cold climate, she needs an abundance of coats to keep her from getting cold in dreary Forks. Unlike her tops, her coats have more variety in cut and color.
Most of her coats end about hip height to show off her legs. Often, her coats are the most colorful part of her outfit, so she chooses them in colors like blue, yellow, red, and green. I love the red bomber jacket on the bottom right as an updated take on Bella’s look.
As Bella grew up in Arizona, she has a bit of an All-American/Western style to her look and can often be seen wearing things like turquoise jewelry or suede boots.
To copy her look, I chose a maroon tank top, a plaid shirt, and a trusty pair of denim jeans for a low-maintenance combo that’s very Washington state. To keep you from getting chilly in Forks weather, I chose a cute grey beanie to keep your head nice and toasty. Throw this outfit on and you’ll be ready to explore the forest with one of our dashing anti-heroes.
For my second outfit, I chose pieces to show off Bella’s bohemian side. Her style often veers toward boho-chic, and this outfit reflects that, while still staying true to her low-maintenance mindset.
First, I chose a blue embroidered tunic and paired that with a gray cardigan. I then added dark wash jeans and a classic brown belt. For shoes, I chose Converse chucks in navy blue (Bella wears a similar pair in the films), and to add a touch of femininity, I picked out a delicate turquoise ring.
Overall, this look is tough, yet when you examine the details, it’s also very feminine. This mix of tough and girly gives the outfit character.
Bella’s Hair
Bella’s hair is the stuff dreams are made of. Like Serena from Gossip Girl, she’s one of those girls that doesn’t know how lucky she is to have such a nice head of hair. All she has to do is roll out of bed and her hair is perfect. But don’t despair, you too can replicate Bella’s hair with the help of a trusty 1-inch curling iron.
Here’s how to get Bella’s perfect locks:
First, find a curling iron with at least a 1-inch barrel
Separate your hair into sections and then grab a medium section of it and wrap it around the iron (don’t use the clamp).
Hold the section around the wrapped area for about a minute and then let go. It should be a nice loose curl now.
Continue doing this around the rest of your head (you don’t have to do all of it though, it’s nice to leave a few strands straight – it looks more natural), set your hair with a teeny bit of hairspray, and voila: you will have hair that no man (or vampire or werewolf) will be able to resist.
As I mentioned before, Bella’s hair is pretty much perfect. Sometimes when she wears it down, she accessorizes with a thin headband on the crown of her head.
You can try this style out to add a little bit of dainty detail to your look – all you need to do is push your hair back and place the headband in your hair. Also, headbands are fabulous because they’re so cheap. No matter your budget, this is one look you can definitely afford!
Bella also wears the occasional beanie to keep her ears warm during those chilly days relaxing in La Push. I chose an assortment of beanies and berets in different colors to mix things up. They’re great because they add a pop of color to your outfit and also keep your head nice and toasty.
What do you guys think of Bella’s style? Do you think I translated it well? Did you like this updated guide to her look? Whatever your thoughts, let me know in the comments!
Editor’s note: This post was originally published in 2009; it was completely updated and revamped in 2018 by Sharon with new photos and information.
119 thoughts on “How To Copy Bella Swan’s Style from Twilight”
I don;t know why people try to copy Bella’s style – the only good thing about it is that it is simple and anyone can pull it off. i think Alice and/or Rosalie are good style inspirations.
To everyone complaining about this post: I honestly saw this kind of feedback coming, I knew there would be lots of mixed reviews and argumentation, especially since when it comes to Twilight, you either love it or hate it.
I think the main thing those of you complaining need to realize is that is that this blog is not tailored to one person. There are other readers out there who requested that this style breakdown to be written, and I want to point out that ZEPHYR HERSELF requested that I write this- it was not my idea (although I totally support her decision, it’s perfectly justified).
I worked very hard on this post because I knew that this post would be controversial, please keep that in mind when you say things like the “quality of the post is lacking”. If her style isn’t pleasing to you, you don’t have to read this particular post. Please don’t hate on a post that I worked very hard on just because you don’t like the topic or the style presented.
In all honesty, I am going to admit that Bella is not my ideal candidate for a style icon, like many of you said her style is too “everyday” or “safe” (which is why I embellished with some of the outfits- ie: those heeled boots). But I see nothing “ugly” or “boring” about buying basics. Basics are an important staple in any person’s wardrobe.
Finally, I just want to say I appreciate ALL the comments that you guys leave (I learn more about your opinions and they give me ideas about what to write), but I don’t think that you should be so closed minded. Just because you don’t like Bella’s style, that does not give you the right to trash it. Collegefashion should be an OPEN and FRIENDLY community.
@ Zlatana- You are right about holding your hair in a curling iron for one minute; I was making a generalization. I think it kind of depends on the hair you have. As I am asian, I have to keep my hair in longer. It’s probably better for those of you whose hair curls faster to leave it in the iron for about 30-40 seconds. Thanks for pointing that out.
@ Iris- Actually, that jacket that you posted is the same jacket as the one I linked to, they are both made by BB Dakota and the one I linked to is actually a few dollars cheaper.
@ Marije- Kristina wrote a great post on beanies and other hats, you can check it out here: http://www.collegefashion.net/trends/college-fashion-trend-cozy-winter-hats/
But if that doesn’t help you, I will look into writing a beanie styled post for you!
While I think Bella’s style is very everyday, I don’t know if the post was needed… Bella’s style is just sort of like everyone’s super casual style–I wouldn’t call her overly fashionable, nor would I want to emulate her style on a day-to-day basis. Maybe during finals week though….
bella has no style. why would anyone copy someone who’s so damn boring and bland? and yes, why didn’t we just look at rosalie’s style? did you see her shoes when she smashes the salad bowl? and we’re focusing on bella’s dirty converse?
Hi Kim,
I really like the beanies but I have very curly hair and i’m not sure how to wear a beanie. Can somebody give me some advise on that?
Marije (from the Netherlands)
This blog/site has become more lame once the creator stopped writing and hired other college students to do it for her. It’s definitely not the same. The new writers talk about “fashion” pieces that no one would care to emulate.
Definitely not a fan of Bella or any of the Twilight business. (with the exception of Taylor Lautner of course lol) And Bella’s outfits are plain, boring, and uninspirational. :/
To me, Bella’s outfit is really depressing, boring and uninspiring. I look at her and I feel like there is no tomorrow so why bother dressing up… But well, she doesn’t like shopping. I mean, there is a reason why she dressed that way.
I vote ‘How to dress like Sookie Stackhouse’ for the next such article. PLEASE. So cute and ladylike, and I’d love to think about some of the summery sundress styles she wears now that the weather’s so dreary.
I don;t know why people try to copy Bella’s style – the only good thing about it is that it is simple and anyone can pull it off. i think Alice and/or Rosalie are good style inspirations.
To everyone complaining about this post: I honestly saw this kind of feedback coming, I knew there would be lots of mixed reviews and argumentation, especially since when it comes to Twilight, you either love it or hate it.
I think the main thing those of you complaining need to realize is that is that this blog is not tailored to one person. There are other readers out there who requested that this style breakdown to be written, and I want to point out that ZEPHYR HERSELF requested that I write this- it was not my idea (although I totally support her decision, it’s perfectly justified).
I worked very hard on this post because I knew that this post would be controversial, please keep that in mind when you say things like the “quality of the post is lacking”. If her style isn’t pleasing to you, you don’t have to read this particular post. Please don’t hate on a post that I worked very hard on just because you don’t like the topic or the style presented.
In all honesty, I am going to admit that Bella is not my ideal candidate for a style icon, like many of you said her style is too “everyday” or “safe” (which is why I embellished with some of the outfits- ie: those heeled boots). But I see nothing “ugly” or “boring” about buying basics. Basics are an important staple in any person’s wardrobe.
Finally, I just want to say I appreciate ALL the comments that you guys leave (I learn more about your opinions and they give me ideas about what to write), but I don’t think that you should be so closed minded. Just because you don’t like Bella’s style, that does not give you the right to trash it. Collegefashion should be an OPEN and FRIENDLY community.
@ Zlatana- You are right about holding your hair in a curling iron for one minute; I was making a generalization. I think it kind of depends on the hair you have. As I am asian, I have to keep my hair in longer. It’s probably better for those of you whose hair curls faster to leave it in the iron for about 30-40 seconds. Thanks for pointing that out.
@ Iris- Actually, that jacket that you posted is the same jacket as the one I linked to, they are both made by BB Dakota and the one I linked to is actually a few dollars cheaper.
@ Marije- Kristina wrote a great post on beanies and other hats, you can check it out here: http://www.collegefashion.net/trends/college-fashion-trend-cozy-winter-hats/
But if that doesn’t help you, I will look into writing a beanie styled post for you!
Bella’s closet looks like a Pac Sun store.
This is great! I love the outfits. Alice would be fun, too!
Agreed. Do a post on Alice!
While I think Bella’s style is very everyday, I don’t know if the post was needed… Bella’s style is just sort of like everyone’s super casual style–I wouldn’t call her overly fashionable, nor would I want to emulate her style on a day-to-day basis. Maybe during finals week though….
bella has no style. why would anyone copy someone who’s so damn boring and bland? and yes, why didn’t we just look at rosalie’s style? did you see her shoes when she smashes the salad bowl? and we’re focusing on bella’s dirty converse?
I agree with post #4 from Alyssa. Why the hell would you want to emulate Bella’s wardrobe? Are you serious?!
Rosalie is the one with the style. Thank you…
Great post.
I like Bella’s style because you can copy it without spending tons of money and because it’s casual but still trendy and cool.
Sabrina
Hi Kim,
I really like the beanies but I have very curly hair and i’m not sure how to wear a beanie. Can somebody give me some advise on that?
Marije (from the Netherlands)
This blog/site has become more lame once the creator stopped writing and hired other college students to do it for her. It’s definitely not the same. The new writers talk about “fashion” pieces that no one would care to emulate.
Definitely not a fan of Bella or any of the Twilight business. (with the exception of Taylor Lautner of course lol) And Bella’s outfits are plain, boring, and uninspirational. :/
To me, Bella’s outfit is really depressing, boring and uninspiring. I look at her and I feel like there is no tomorrow so why bother dressing up… But well, she doesn’t like shopping. I mean, there is a reason why she dressed that way.
And this really needed a tutorial guide? Just walk into an American Eagle or Abercrombie. Problem solved.
Bella is soo mainstream and her style is not uniqe. Alice has style thought 🙂
I vote ‘How to dress like Sookie Stackhouse’ for the next such article. PLEASE. So cute and ladylike, and I’d love to think about some of the summery sundress styles she wears now that the weather’s so dreary.