Muses of The Moment

Did The Baby-Sitters Club inspire spring style?

By Andrea Kasprzak
Published: March 16th, 2010 | 10:20pm

Long before Carrie and company, another fab foursome ruled the East Coast. Set in the fictional town of Stoneybrook, Connecticut, The Baby-Sitters Club first broke onto the scene in 1986 with Kristy’s Great Idea.

The iconic series is getting re-released this April, complete with revamped covers (look for an interview with author Ann M. Martin in our spring issue). In honor of the makeover, we used each of the original girls' signature styles to interpret this season’s top trends. Below, what might happen if Kristy, Claudia, Mary Anne, and Stacey ditched diaper duty in favor of designer duds:

Kristy

Often described as tomboyish, Kristy was too busy coaching little league and scheming business ventures in her bedroom to care about style. Thankfully, her borrowed-from-the-boys wardrobe is spot on this spring. This season’s cropped tops and tanks, worn-in sweatshirts, and nautical stripes work to instantly update her essential pair of cut-offs.

Kristy's Look inspired by Alexander Wang: Erin Wasson x RVCA camisole, $63, Lizzie Fortunato Small Fortune On the Road Friendship Bracelet, $97, Ever Boyfriend short, $188

Mary Anne

Shy secretary Mary Anne wasn’t much of a clotheshorse. As the BSC’s only spoken-for sitter, she kept content with BF Logan and her classic pigtailed locks. For spring, she’d venture slightly outside her comfort zone with a girly pair of tap shorts, tempering the look with a boyfriend-fit blazer and saddle shoes.

Mary Anne's Look inspired by Prada: Kimchi Blue Scallop Short, $24, Charlotte Ronson double breasted boyfriend blazer, $315, BDG Saddles Shoes, $48.

Stacey

The fashion plate of the group, Stacey’s most memorable fashion moments included a men’s tuxedo and a perm. The boy-crazy blonde wouldn’t shy from this season’s body conscious dresses, exaggerated shoulders, or quirky menswear-inspired outfits. She'd also add bright accessories, like a button-covered ponytail holder, to keep things playful.

Stacey's Look inspired by Moschino: Alexander Wang Trish Wedges, $575, Illionaire dress, $252, Jennifer Ouellette button hair bauble, $35.

Claudia

Known for her outlandish ensembles, Claudia is the only member with an entire blog devoted to her adventurous style. Unlike Stacey’s sophisticated choices, Claudia veers toward funky, loud pieces. From her trademarked tri-layer slouchy sock combo to fluorescent hair ribbons, her look is all about accessories. Only Claudia could simultaneously rock a zippered backpack stuffed with art supplies, painterly leggings, and neon-hued sunglasses.

Claudia's Look inspired by Marc by Marc Jacobs: Shop Nasty Gal Pixel Sunglasses, $36, Alexander Wang Sydney backpack, $875, Swash leggings, $200.