Channel Your Inner Boss Babe: A Guide to the Mob Wife Aesthetic
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try out the mob wife aesthetic when you’re feeling…
glamorous
ostentatious
bold
confident
opulent
timeline & influencers
1990s depictions of mob wives were glamorized by Sharon Stone in the 1995 film, Casino, and popularized with Carmela and Adriana of 1990s HBO series “The Sopranos”
Early 2000s: Shows like Mob Wives (premiered 2011) and films like Goodfellas (1990) sparked initial interest in the glamorous yet gritty look
Late 2000s: The style started appearing in rap/hip-hop music videos and among some urban/ethnic influencers embracing "richer than you" opulence
2010s: Reality stars like the cast of Jersey Shore popularized big hair, heavy makeup, bodycon dresses and heels as an Italian-American "mobster girlfriend" aesthetic
2015-2017: Social media influencers began channeling the mob wife vibe more overtly with faux fur, leopard print, tight luxury brands like Versace
2018-2020: The look peaked in popularity among some Instagram models/influencers flaunting lavish lifestyles reminiscent of mob wealth stereotypes
2024: A brief resurgence of the microtrend is timed with the 25th anniversary of “The Sopranos” and popularized with Kim Kardashian wearing various fur coats and Kendall Jenner closing the Schiaparelli Spring/Summer 2024 show in Paris with sky-high hair and a red sequin dress
Mob Wife Aesthetic Gift Guide & Outfit Inspo
Big shoulder jumpsuit (v-neck romper, Amazon)
Bodysuit (mock turtleneck, Amazon; square neck with sheer sleeves, Amazon)
Big shoulder sweater (3/4 length knit top, Amazon)
Faux leather pants (high-waisted wide leg, Amazon)
Faux leather shorts (high-waisted hot pants, Amazon)
Cowl neck top (chiffon sleeveless, Amazon)
Leopard print coat (faux fur, Amazon)
Faux fur shawl (cape, Amazon)
Tennis bracelet (CZ, Amazon)
Snakeskin pumps (pointed stiletto heels, Amazon; platform stiletto, Amazon)
Volumizing hairspray (SexyHair Big Spray & Play, Amazon)
Eyeshadow palette (Urban Decay Naked3, Amazon)
Red lip gloss (e.l.f. glow reviver lip oil in red delicious, Amazon)
Similar trends
rich bitch, rocker chic, video vixen, Y2K
The "mob wife" aesthetic is a microtrend that has gained on-and-off popularity over the years. It is characterized by big blowouts, a heavy mix of animal patterns, and the use of faux fur. This trend was initially inspired by the representation of mob families in the media, and has been amplified by reality TV shows and pop culture depictions. Influencers and reality stars have taken advantage of this trend and showcased the more luxurious and materialistic aspects of the "mob wife" aesthetic during its social media peak of the late 2010s. It is still considered a subversive counter-culture fashion statement for some.
In the past, the portrayal of wives or women associated with organized crime families, particularly in Italian-American mafia settings, was often depicted in a stereotypical manner. However, this aesthetic was romanticized in popular culture through movies and TV shows, notably, Sharon Stone in Casino, and the women of TV show, “The Sopranos”. The aesthetic made a resurgence in 2024 due to its trendy depiction across TikTok and subsequent media stories about the growing trend.
The mob wife aesthetic became not just about appearance but also about exuding confidence and a strong sense of self-assuredness. Mob wives are often portrayed as assertive, strong-willed, and unapologetically outspoken. Note that these depictions are fictional and may perpetuate stereotypes.
The mob wife aesthetic is portrayed with dripping jewelry, oversized sunglasses and faux fur coats | Unsplash
Mob Wife Style Guide: Take Glamour & Grit Mainstream
Fashion:
Luxurious clothing: Mob wives are often portrayed wearing high-end, designer clothing, featuring brands such as Gucci, Versace, or Dolce & Gabbana.
Fur and leather: Fur coats and leather jackets or pants are common elements, adding a sense of opulence and extravagance to the aesthetic. The trend has fueled a resurgence of fur.
Hair:
Big hair: Voluminous hairstyles, often achieved with curls or waves, are a signature part of the mob wife aesthetic.
High maintenance looks: Elaborate hairstyles that require meticulous grooming and maintenance contribute to the glamorous image.
Makeup:
Bold and dramatic: The makeup is often bold, with heavy emphasis on features such as eyes and lips. Dark, smokey eyeshadow and vibrant lipstick are common choices.
Flawless skin: A flawless complexion is typically emphasized, with contouring and highlighting to achieve a polished appearance.
Accessories:
Statement jewelry: Large, bold jewelry, including gold chains, oversized rings, and diamond-studded accessories, are integral to the mob wife look.
Designer handbags: Carrying designer handbags, such as a Chanel or Hermes, is a notable element of the mob wife aesthetic.
Sunglasses: Oversized sunglasses, often with designer logos, add an air of mystery and sophistication.
Nails:
Elaborate manicures: Well-manicured nails, often long and sometimes with intricate designs or bold colors, are part of the meticulous grooming associated with the aesthetic.
Shop the Look
