One of the most often cited pieces of Golden Girls trivia is that Rue McClanahan had it written into her contract to keep all of her outfits as Blanche from the show. She was one smart cookie! From her famous Devarobes to gorgeous pantsuits and more, Blanche probably had the most on trend and enviable wardrobe of all of the Girls. But each of the other Girls also had their own signature style as well, featuring their fair share of memorable ensembles throughout the series.

Being that this is primarily a blog focused on the fashion of The Golden Girls, I often get emails from readers asking where they can buy clothes inspired by the show. I’ve been planning this post for awhile and, since Halloween is right around the corner, I thought this would be a great time to get with the program! I won’t judge you if you wait until the last minute and buy one of the costumes at Target this year (ok, maybe I will a little), but you can truly impress your friends and win all the contests if you put together your own outfit inspired by the show. Of course, Golden Girls inspired fashion isn’t just for Halloween. Vintage fashion is both a fun and eco-conscious choice for everyday that will make you stand out from the crowd of fast fashion devotees.

So let’s look at a few websites where you can find Golden Girls inspired fashions along with some search terms that will help you find the perfect pieces to become the Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, or Sophia of you dreams!

My favorite website for vintage fashion is definitely Etsy. On Etsy you’ll find a huge variety of shops selling vintage clothing, with some sellers specializing in specific decades and styles. Sellers are even starting to tag their 1980’s clothing and accessories with “The Golden Girls” to make them easier to find! I found the dress below described as influenced by Blanche, but if you ask me it’s perfect for a “One For the Money” inspired look! In my opinion, Etsy is the best one-stop-shop website to pull together a complete Golden Girls inspired look from clothing to accessories. Prices range from super affordable to more expensive depending on condition and designer provenance.

It may not be the first website that comes to mind, but eBay is also a great source for vintage fashion. Again, prices will range, but most sellers offer the Buy It Now and Best Offer options. These days ebay functions much more as a marketplace rather than an auction website so it’s easy to buy things direct. Just like on Etsy, sellers on eBay are starting to add “Golden Girls” to their item descriptions. Here’s a fab sweater that’s very Dorothy!

If designer is your game then 1st Dibs is the place for you! At 1st Dibs you’ll find truly collectable 1980’s pieces by famous designers all in impeccable condition with prices to match. But don’t be discouraged! You can often find great separates like tops and skirts for under $100.

Next, let’s talk about some specific fashion search terms for each Golden Girl that can help you locate the perfect pieces. Beginning with Blanche again, if a Devarobe is what you’re after, then you’ll have better luck if you try searching for peignoir or negligee. Blanche often layered those classic styles under her distinctive colorful robes. You can also look at kimono and kaftan styles. For Dorothy, try searching for tunics, palazzo pants, and blazers. Sophia is well known for her cardigans, of course, but look for house and day dresses, lace collars, and wicker purses (naturally) to get the Petrillo effect. For Rose, you’ll want to focus on styles like the shirtdress, pencil skirt, and twin sweater sets. General searches for vintage 1980’s jewelry, shoes, and purses will also find many options to choose from to complete your Golden Girls inspired outfit.

Finally, don’t forget about your local thrift, charity, and consignment shops! It may take a few trips and a little digging to find what you’re looking for, but the thrill of the fashion hunt can be half the fun! Plus these shops are often great sources for accessories to pull your outfit together. Estate and garage sales can also yield some surprising finds.

How about you? Have you dressed up as your favorite Golden Girl or incorporated fashion inspired by the show into your wardrobe? Are you planning to dress up as a Golden Girl for Halloween? I’d love to hear all about it!