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Top 10 Best Dressed Characters This Fall TV Season

Kathy Zerbib |
October 22, 2012 | 5:49 p.m. PDT

Staff Reporter

Kirsten Vangsness’ character Penelope Garcia of “Criminal Minds” has a fashion sense too unique to be matched (Image courtesy of CBS).
Kirsten Vangsness’ character Penelope Garcia of “Criminal Minds” has a fashion sense too unique to be matched (Image courtesy of CBS).

1. Kirsten Vangsness of “Criminal Minds” (Wednesdays at 9/8c on CBS)

Every season, Kirsten Vangsness’s character Penelope Garcia goes to no limits to dress as uniquely as possible, and this season of “Criminal Minds” is no different. From her wacky hairdos to her quirky glasses to her color block outfits, Penelope exudes a refreshing burst of flavor on the otherwise serious show. Her liveliness is best communicated through her ever-changing wardrobe, which is why her character is so identifiable and easy to fall for. Her sense of style cannot be matched to any other shows in terms of distinctiveness and creativity.

2. Vanessa Williams of “666 Park Avenue” (Sundays at 10/9c on ABC)

Just as her previous stints on “Ugly Betty” (Remember those memorable days?) and “Desperate Housewives,” Vanessa Williams is back in “666 Park Avenue” with a wardrobe full of designer dresses that her audience can do nothing but envy her for. Her typically dark colored outfits denote her character Olivia Doran’s cold and mysterious persona. Because of Olivia’s undeniable wealth, Williams’ fashion sense is just as extravagant as her previous roles on other shows and it is a look that she undoubtedly handles best. Check out one of her best looks here.

3. Lana Parrilla of “Once Upon A Time” (Sundays at 8/7c on ABC)

Though her character the Evil Queen/Mayor Regina may seem well put together dressed as a mayor, Lana Parrilla’s second role in “Once Upon A Time” as a spiteful queen in a fairytale world is just as lavishly dressed. As the Evil Queen, Parrilla is decked in the exact kind of attire one would imagine a magical queen to regularly prance around in – dark, somber dresses with sexual appeal and threateningly high collars that Walt Disney himself would have applauded (Look here...if you dare!). The Evil Queen is dressed so appropriately for her character that her wardrobe puts many of her other fellow cast members to shame of being underdressed for their roles.

4. Hayden Panettiere of “Nashville” (Wednesdays at 10/9c on ABC)

Perhaps it is mostly due to her naturally adorableness that makes Hayden Panettiere in “Nashville” seem so effortless in her fashionably charismatic style. Her character Juliette Barnes combines country chic with more than a few hints of seduction to make one determined singer looking to take herself and her cowboy boots to the top. Panettiere’s character on the show sports Western-style hats with scandalously short dresses, ensuring she is more than ready to play the part of a country singer superstar as she shoots for her dreams of stardom. Check out the little slice of country fierce here.

5. Darren Criss on “Glee” (Thursdays at 9/8c on FOX)

Darren Criss’ character Blaine Anderson on “Glee” is the definition of a stereotypical “prep school” boy. He is always dressed in distinguished cardigans, bowties, and button downs that establish him from the rest of the T-shirt and tank top-type boys in high school (How much so you love this sweater vest?). Blaine certainly chooses to dress in accordance to his lively personality, all while maintaining a calmness that can be properly described with charming adjectives, like “nifty” or “neat.” His woven tops and need for color coordinance are so precious that a true gLeek can only hope he does not have a mid-season change of heart and turns to a different style of wardrobe.

Check out Ashley Benson as Hanna Marin on "Pretty Little Liars". Those earrings are fierce! (Image courtesy of ABC Family)
Check out Ashley Benson as Hanna Marin on "Pretty Little Liars". Those earrings are fierce! (Image courtesy of ABC Family)

6. Ashley Benson on “Pretty Little Liars” (Tuesdays at 8/7c on ABC Family)

Even during times of considerable stress, Ashley Benson’s character Hanna Marin on “Pretty Little Liars” is always sure to look exceptionally phenomenal. Though the general cast regularly sports appealing clothes on the show, Hanna sticks out for adding that extra oomph to her outfits. As the most fashionable character out of the bunch, her outfits go the extra mile and really jazz up her daily look. From gorgeous, solid-colored dresses to statement blazers to incomparable handbags, Ashley Benson’s character has it all. 

7. Janet Montgomery on “Made in Jersey” (CBS)

Though the show was recently cancelled, Janet Montgomery was a force to be reckoned with on “Made in Jersey.” Montgomery plays an inexperienced, young lawyer on the show, and her fashion sense is anything but naïve. Because of her occupation, her character Martina Garretti must comply with standard office wear and she does so in the most leniently chic attire possible. While other characters are usually in dark colors and modest designs to represent their sophistication, her character relishes in risqué miniskirts and flashy colors that wonderfully abuse the business casual label. She clearly stands out from her coworkers and her professional-yet-exciting style embodies the spiciness of her personality.

8. Sofia Vergara on “Modern Family” (Wednesdays at 10/9c on ABC)

Though Sofia Vergara’s character Gloria Delgado-Pritchett is revealed to be pregnant on “Modern Family,” her impeccable taste in fashion clearly has not been compromised. From photo sneak peaks, Gloria is seen with the trendiest maternity clothes ever sported on a television show (though she does rip through an exceptionally cute outfit before admitting her pregnancy to the world). Expect some snazzy attire from the mother-to-be as she embarks on her journey in tight dresses and wild designs.

Stephen Amell’s character Oliver Queen in “Arrow” sports a sultry yet rugged appearance on the show (Courtesy of The CW).
Stephen Amell’s character Oliver Queen in “Arrow” sports a sultry yet rugged appearance on the show (Courtesy of The CW).

9. Stephen Amell on “Arrow” (Wednesdays at 8/7c on The CW)

Stephen Amell’s character Oliver Queen/Arrow on “Arrow” is a wealthy playboy with a flawless sense of style. When the actor is not shirtless with his bows strapped around his torso as his alias Arrow, Oliver is clad in sharp, professional attire. The contrast between his rugged facial struggles and orderly clothing only intensifies his appeal. His appearance in a casual tux confirms to the female audience why there is such a great appreciation for a man in a suit and tie.

10. Laura Leighton on “Pretty Little Liars” (Tuesdays at 8/7c on ABC Family)

If ever there were an award for Best Dressed Mother on Television, Laura Leighton’s character Ashley Marin on “Pretty Little Liars” would be a strong contender. With a closet full of busty, everyday dresses, her audience knows not to expect mom jeans and casual blouses from her. Ashley dresses in tasteful class and can be seen sporting heels in her own kitchen. Her style is anything but matronly, rivaling only her daughter, Hanna Marin (mentioned above).  

Reach Staff Reporter Kathy Zerbib here and follow her on Twitter here.



 

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