Gen Z Is Obsessed With Madelyn Cline—See the Summer Trends She's Loving RN

When my younger cousins first told me about Netflix's series Outer Banks in 2020, I didn't think I would enjoy it as much as I did. But there I was, in my bedroom at 3 a.m. bingeing the first season. Now, I'm anxiously waiting for the new season and am keeping up with the cast on Instagram and TikTok. While many of the show's stars have made a claim to fame, Madelyn Cline, who plays Sarah Cameron, has really piqued the interest of Generation Z. While she regularly shares behind the scenes of filming and funny photo dumps with her castmates, she's also made her way onto the fashion scene. Working with well-known stylist Mimi Cuttrell and partnering with brands such as Ferragamo and Maje, Cline is proving her sartorial tastes go beyond the beachy vibe of OBX. 

Since Outer Banks is filmed on the beaches of North Carolina, it only makes sense that I reached out to Cline and asked about everything on her mind when it comes to summer fashion. Keep scrolling to hear all her answers, from the style similarities between her and her character to the trends she's been wearing the most.

Your character, Sarah, has a mix of a preppy and laid-back style. Has her style influenced yours in any way?

Yes and no. I don't personally think Sarah's style has influenced me. Though, there are a few pieces that I have stolen from her closet, like a green-and-white gingham bikini and a cozy oversize beach shirt from American Eagle.

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How would you describe Sarah's style, and in contrast, how would you describe your own personal style? 

I would describe her wardrobe as colorful, summery, and beachy; whereas, I would describe mine as very neutral, understated with lots of staple pieces. I prefer not to wear patterns, but Sarah does remind me to wear color more often.

Shop Sarah's style:

Shop Cline's style:

You've quickly grown into a Gen Z fashion icon. What are a few trends you've loved trying out/experimenting with recently?

Chunky shoes, kitten heels, leather, low-rise denim and baggy jeans, monochromatic outfits, baby tees, miniskirts… I love all of it. When I watch any late '90s and early 2000s TV or movies, I'll add outfits to my folder of inspo. I'm not sure why, but it feels so cool, and I'll never get over that era of style. This opinion does come with exceptions, though. Some of it can stay there. 

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Filming OBX, I'm sure you find yourself wearing more "summery" fashion items while on set in the heat. What are your favorite staples for the warm weather?

A classic cotton crop tank like this one, low-rise shorts or a miniskirt, and Jordans or chunky slides from Simon Miller are go-tos. I think it's simple [and] cool, and honestly, in this heat, I don't want anything else. 

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What are some of your fashion goals as you move forward in the industry? Are there any designers you're looking forward to wearing or inspirations you want to embody on the red carpet?

I adore Versace, Prada, and Mugler. I think they're all absolutely iconic. I've worn Versace many times on carpets, and I always feel like it transforms me into a really confident version of myself, and I can't stop smiling. 

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How has it been working with a classic brand like American Eagle? Do you have any favorite items from the brand?

The denim is always, always my go-to, and recently, they have added crochet tops and dresses, and I'm obsessed! It's been a dream to work with the brand. 

Shop crochet:

Shop items both Cline and Sarah would love:

Next, I'm a Gen Zer, and My Boss Is a Millennial—We Agree on These 6 Summer Trends