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#TBT 90’s Inspired Hairography Mix: Celebrate the 20th Anniversary of Clueless, with 20 Songs from the 1990s

By Jordan Willard | July 23, 2015 0 Comments

The Internet has been blowing up this week with articles celebrating the 20th anniversary of the 1990’s classic romantic teen comedy, Clueless. On July 19, 1995, director Amy Heckerling’s opus, Clueless, premiered in theaters, making history as one of the most iconic, culturally relevant films from the 1990s. Loosely based on the Jane Austen novel, Emma, the film Clueless is more than just the average teeny bopper rom-com, about a group of “wise-beyond-their-years” friends masquerading as adults; Clueless represents the change in the cultural landscape, modifying the antecedent standards of early 90s fashion, music, and even language.

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Clueless’ original and refreshing perspective exhibits the gradual shift away from the dark, angst riddled days of grunge that characterized the early 1990s. One could argue a mild degree of angst was still present within some of the characters in Clueless, the most obvious example being Paul Rudd’s flannel wearing, Radiohead loving character, Josh. However, even Cher’s BFF Dionne, sarcastically states that Josh was,“Going through his post-adolescent idealistic phase,” ultimately revealing that Josh’s personal interests, cultural tastes, and overall attitude was merely a front, based on exhausted, outdated trends. Clueless helped to revamp the “Smell of Teen Spirit” that permeated the early 1990s, with it’s more optimistic, universally accessible, brightly colored packaging. Once Clueless was released, the overall tone of the American pop culture climate became more relaxed and effervescent.

Though this is visually exemplified within the progressive patterns for fashion, film, and art in 1990s, it can also be heard in the thematic tempo of music released from this era. Perhaps this is why I am so drawn to 90s playlists, soundtracks, and radio stations during the summertime. The laid back, yet fun beats which define the catalog of 90s music, are always consistent crowd pleasers at summertime kickbacks. In honor of Clueless’ 20th Anniversary, I’ve tailor made this nostalgic, 90s inspired playlist, including definitive songs from the decade that are still well revered 20 years later. So pull out your platforms and feather tipped pens, and prepare to reminisce, with this #TBT 90s hairography mix!