The Original “It Girls”: Black Girls on TV in the 90s and Early 2000s
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The 90s and early 2000s were a formative era for Black television, with sitcoms and dramas offering nuanced representations of Black life. Among the most cherished were the Black girls and young women who became the blueprint for what it meant to be stylish, confident, funny, and unforgettable. These characters embodied the “It Girl” aesthetic—effortlessly chic, charismatic, and entirely authentic. Whether they were setting trends, delivering sharp one-liners, or standing up for their beliefs, they created a lasting impact on pop culture.
From Raven Baxter’s bold flair to Moesha Mitchell’s trendsetting cool, let’s dive deeper into this celebration of the original “It Girls” by highlighting even more icons, including Kim Parker, Whitley Gilbert, Pam and Gina, and the unforgettable sisters from Half & Half.
1. Raven Baxter – That’s So Raven
Raven Baxter, played by the indomitable Raven-Symoné, was more than just a psychic teenager navigating high school drama. She was a force of nature—confident, hilarious, and endlessly creative. Her ability to dress up in elaborate disguises for her antics (to either save the day or get out of trouble) showcased not just comedic genius but a fashion-forward sense of flair.
Raven’s style was bold, colorful, and unmistakably hers, from chunky belts to eccentric hats and layered looks that embraced early 2000s maximalism. She embodied the “It Girl” aesthetic by being authentically herself, proving that you didn’t have to conform to societal norms to shine. Her charisma and unshakable self-assurance made her an icon for Black girls everywhere.
2. Breanna Barnes – One on One
Kyla Pratt’s portrayal of Breanna Barnes on One on One gave audiences a girl who was both relatable and aspirational. Breanna was a witty, self-assured teenager navigating life with her single father, Flex. Her blend of sass and vulnerability made her feel real, while her undeniable charm set her apart as a quintessential "It Girl."
Breanna’s style was effortlessly cool—baby tees, low-rise jeans, and hoop earrings were staples in her wardrobe. She had a way of making everyday looks seem chic and relatable. Beyond her style, Breanna’s relationships, friendships, and ambition resonated with young viewers, making her a role model who embraced independence and self-expression.
3. Tia and Tamera Mowry – Sister, Sister
Tia Landry and Tamera Campbell, played by real-life twins Tia and Tamera Mowry, were double the fun and twice the fashion. Sister, Sister was a cultural phenomenon, and the twins’ contrasting personalities made them even more memorable. Tia was the studious, level-headed twin, while Tamera was the free-spirited, slightly boy-crazy counterpart.
Their wardrobes reflected their personalities, with Tia opting for polished, preppy looks and Tamera embracing playful, quirky outfits. Together, they represented the full spectrum of Black girlhood, showing that there was no one way to be an “It Girl.” Their sisterly bond, quick wit, and genuine relatability cemented their status as icons of the era.
4. Zaria Peterson – The Parenthood
Reagan Gomez-Preston’s portrayal of Zaria Peterson on The Parenthood gave viewers a smart, stylish teen who was deeply driven but still knew how to have fun. Zaria was ambitious and outspoken, often pushing boundaries while maintaining respect for her family. She carried herself with a level of maturity that was both admirable and inspiring.
Zaria’s fashion choices—sleek mini dresses, bold prints, and trendy hairstyles—added to her "It Girl" aura. She was the girl you wanted to be friends with, someone who was as cool as she was kind. Her character showed that Black girls could be multi-dimensional, balancing academic ambition with a vibrant social life.
5. Tiffany Warren – In the House
Tiffany Warren, played by Maia Campbell, was the epitome of early 90s cool on In the House. As a teenager living under the roof of her single mother and a former football player, Tiffany’s character was as fashionable as she was witty. Her outfits were consistently trendsetting, blending sporty elements with feminine touches.
Tiffany exuded confidence in every scene, making her an “It Girl” who always seemed ahead of her time. Despite being a secondary character in a series led by LL Cool J, Tiffany’s charm and fashion sense made her unforgettable.
6. Ashley Banks – The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Tatyana Ali’s portrayal of Ashley Banks on The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air marked one of the most iconic transformations in 90s television. Initially introduced as the sweet, somewhat naive youngest sibling in the Banks family, Ashley evolved into a stylish, self-assured young woman over the course of the series.
Ashley’s wardrobe became a reflection of her coming-of-age journey. From plaid skirts and preppy sweaters to crop tops and high-waisted jeans, she mastered the art of blending sophistication with youthful flair. Her character’s growth, confidence, and elegance cemented her as a quintessential “It Girl.”
7. Laura Winslow and Myra Monkhouse – Family Matters
Family Matters gave us two unforgettable Black girls in Laura Winslow (Kellie Shanygne Williams) and Myra Monkhouse (Michelle Thomas). Laura was the quintessential girl-next-door—kind, intelligent, and fiercely independent. Her classic 90s style and knack for handling chaos (mainly from Steve Urkel) made her a beloved character.
Meanwhile, Myra Monkhouse brought an entirely different energy. Though initially introduced as a love interest for Urkel, Myra quickly stood out with her beauty, charm, and killer fashion sense. Together, Laura and Myra represented two sides of the “It Girl” aesthetic: grounded and aspirational.
8. Angela Moore – Boy Meets World
Angela Moore, played by Trina McGee, was a groundbreaking character on Boy Meets World for many reasons. As one of the few Black characters in a predominantly white cast, Angela’s presence was both refreshing and important. She was witty, artistic, and deeply introspective, bringing depth to the series.
Angela’s relationship with Shawn Hunter also broke barriers, showcasing an interracial couple during a time when such representation was rare. Her style—a mix of bohemian and polished—mirrored her thoughtful yet free-spirited nature. Angela stood out as a beacon of authenticity and sophistication.
9. Khadijah James – Living Single
Queen Latifah’s portrayal of Khadijah James on Living Single gave us a Black woman who was unapologetically ambitious, intelligent, and fashionable. As the editor and owner of Flavor magazine, Khadijah was a trailblazer in every sense of the word.
Her wardrobe was effortlessly chic, often featuring power suits, bold prints, and timeless accessories. Khadijah wasn’t just a career woman; she was also deeply relatable, balancing her work life with friendships and romantic pursuits. Her confidence and drive made her an enduring “It Girl” for older teens and young women.
10. Moesha Mitchell – Moesha
No list of iconic Black girls on TV would be complete without Moesha Mitchell, played by Brandy Norwood. Moesha was a coming-of-age story that followed its titular character through the ups and downs of teenage life. Moesha was intelligent, outspoken, and deeply committed to her family and friends.
Her fashion choices—braids, mini skirts, and platform shoes—set trends that defined the late 90s and early 2000s. Moesha’s blend of vulnerability and strength made her one of the most relatable characters of the era. She embodied the essence of the “It Girl” aesthetic by staying true to herself while navigating the complexities of growing up.
11. Dionne Davenport – Clueless (TV Series)
While Clueless is often remembered for its leading character Cher, Stacey Dash’s Dionne Davenport stole the show on more than one occasion. Dionne was stylish, sharp-tongued, and always in control of the situation. Her character radiated confidence and flair.
Dionne’s fashion was as iconic as her personality. From matching plaid sets to luxurious accessories, her looks were aspirational for any 90s girl. She was the epitome of sophistication and class, making her a definitive “It Girl” of her time.
12. Kim Parker – Moesha and The Parkers
Kim Parker, portrayed by Countess Vaughn, was both hilarious and unapologetically herself. First introduced on Moesha, Kim became so beloved that she landed her own spin-off, The Parkers, alongside her equally unforgettable mother, Nikki (played by Mo’Nique).
Kim embodied the “It Girl” aesthetic in her own unique way. She wasn’t afraid to take risks—whether that was in fashion or her love life. Her style was bold, playful, and vibrant, featuring statement hats, sparkly ensembles, and iconic hairstyles that made her stand out. Beyond her humor, Kim was fiercely loyal and confident, proving that being an “It Girl” was more about owning who you are than fitting into someone else’s mold.
13. Whitley Gilbert – A Different World
When it comes to Black female characters with unmistakable “It Girl” energy, few can hold a candle to Whitley Gilbert, played by Jasmine Guy. A Different World introduced audiences to Whitley as a Southern belle with expensive taste, sharp wit, and a hilariously blunt attitude. But Whitley was more than her love for designer labels; she grew into a compassionate, ambitious woman who balanced her luxurious lifestyle with a deep sense of purpose.
Whitley’s style was impeccable—pearls, power suits, and elegant dresses defined her wardrobe. Her ability to command attention in any room made her unforgettable, and her romance with Dwayne remains one of the most iconic love stories on television. Whitley’s mix of sophistication, humor, and undeniable charm firmly established her as a 90s “It Girl.”
14. Mona and Dee Dee Thorne – Half & Half
Essence Atkins and Rachel True brought Mona and Dee Dee Thorne to life on Half & Half, a show that explored the complexities of sisterhood and blended families. Mona, the free-spirited older sister, and Dee Dee, the bubbly and fashion-conscious younger sister, represented two sides of the “It Girl” coin.
Mona’s bohemian-chic style—filled with funky patterns, natural curls, and layered jewelry—was a testament to her artistic soul and easygoing personality. On the other hand, Dee Dee’s polished, high-fashion ensembles showcased her confidence and unapologetic love for the finer things in life. Together, they offered a dynamic duo of ambition, humor, and authenticity, proving that there’s no single way to be an “It Girl.”
15. Gina Waters and Pam James – Martin
Martin’s Gina Waters (Tisha Campbell) and Pam James (Tichina Arnold) are the ultimate comedic “It Girl” duo. Gina was the quintessential career woman—smart, stylish, and always composed—while Pam was the bold, no-nonsense best friend whose sass and wit were unmatched.
Gina’s wardrobe was filled with sleek, office-ready looks and effortlessly chic casual outfits, while Pam’s fashion leaned more daring and edgy, featuring leather jackets, body-hugging dresses, and bold accessories. Together, they defined 90s friendship goals, showing that “It Girls” thrive even more when they have someone equally iconic by their side. Gina’s elegance and Pam’s fearless energy were the perfect balance, making them a cornerstone of 90s Black television.
These characters—alongside Raven Baxter, Ashley Banks, Breanna Barnes, and others—did more than entertain audiences. They set the standard for representation and showed that Black girls and young women could be dynamic, multifaceted, and unapologetically themselves. Whether through their sense of style, their wit, or their heartfelt moments, these “It Girls” offered a roadmap for embracing individuality and ambition.
Black female characters in the 90s and early 2000s weren’t just relegated to the background. They were the main event, shaping pop culture and leaving a lasting impression on audiences. Their influence can be seen today in characters like Zoey Johnson (Grown-ish), Rue Bennett (Euphoria), and Hilary Banks in Bel-Air. These modern characters owe much of their success to the original “It Girls” who paved the way, showing that style, confidence, and authenticity are timeless.
The 90s and early 2000s may have given us unforgettable fashion trends, iconic sitcoms, and larger-than-life personalities, but more importantly, they gave Black girls everywhere a chance to see themselves as the center of the story—and the center of the culture. From Kim’s boldness to Whitley’s sophistication, these characters remain icons who showed the world exactly what it means to shine.
In celebrating them, we’re reminded of a simple truth: being an “It Girl” isn’t just about the clothes you wear or the way you look—it’s about owning who you are, fearlessly and unapologetically.
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This is a great list! Part two?
I was screaming of excitement from it girl to it girl. We don't have enough of these it girls today!