You might not want to dress exactly like Rhaenyra on a daily basis (although, how awesome would that be?). But what you can do is take some hints from her fashion sense, and the other costumes on the show. Let’s look at some HOTD-inspired fashion tips!
Inspo: Flowing Bell Sleeves
The Targaryens are all about luxury and style. So it’s not surprising that flowing bell sleeves are a big part of Rhaenyra’s look.
The sleeve style easily adds drama and makes you feel like instant royalty. They’re also wide and roomy, giving a sense of freedom and movement.
IRL, this style was popular in the Rennaissance and made a comeback in the 1970s. And of course, slightly less dramatic bell sleeves are back in style today.
In Real Life: Flowing Bell Sleeves
If you want to rock bell sleeves without going full medieval, you’re in luck because you can find this sleeve style offered by many brands and designers.
Look for styles that give you volume on the bottom as well as the top. Pair the bell sleeves with a puffed shoulder for an extra royal touch.
Embrace ruching on top to help give this voluminous style some definition and make it more flattering. It’s Targaryen but without the dragons (unfortunately).
Inspo: Intricate Embroidery
House Targaryen’s style is all about those luxurious details. Rhaenyra’s outfits are often decorated with intricate embroidery, adding a regal touch.
These details make her clothes look rich and elegant. Intricate embroidery has been a fashion staple in many eras, from the Victorian age to the early 20th century.
It’s all about adding that unique, personal flair. This level of detail elevates any garment, making it look more special and timeless.
In Real Life: Intricate Embroidery
You don’t have to be a Targaryen to enjoy intricate embroidery. This style is popular today, with many brands offering beautifully embroidered pieces.
Look for dresses, blouses, or jackets with detailed stitching to add some royal flair to your wardrobe. Embroidery can make any outfit look more special and unique.
Pair an embroidered piece with simple accessories to let the intricate details shine. It’s a stylish way to add a bit of fantasy to a look.
Inspo: Contrast Red and Black
House Targaryen knows how to make a statement with bold color contrasts. Rhaenyra often rocks the striking combo of red and black.
These colors symbolize power and passion, making any outfit look fierce and commanding. This color combo has been popular in many eras.
Red and black together create a strong visual impact, perfect for anyone wanting to channel their inner Targaryen with a dramatic and bold look.
In Real Life: Contrast Red and Black
Even if you’re a commoner, you can bring the bold Targaryen contrast of red and black into your everyday style with some simple, contrasting pieces.
It might be more modern, but it still captures that powerful look. This combo makes a strong statement that’s perfect for casual outings, work, or date nights.
Pair this look with some statement jewelry to enhance the drama. It’s a simple but definitely effective way to channel that Targaryen vibe.
Inspo: Ruffled Off-the-Shoulder Neckline
Ready to rock a look that screams Targaryen chic? Try a ruffled off-the-shoulder neckline. This style is all about showing a bit of skin while keeping things classy.
Think about how it adds a soft, romantic vibe to any outfit. The Targaryens love this style for its regal yet relaxed feel. Ruffles have been around forever.
They especially made big waves in fashion during the Victorian era and again in the 1980s. It’s all about that drama and flair.
In Real Life: Ruffled Off-the-Shoulder Neckline
Want to nail that ruffled off-the-shoulder look in real life? Try pairing a ruffled off-the-shoulder top with a high-waisted skirt or jeans for a chic, laid-back vibe.
This style is perfect for summer parties or even a day at the office with a bit of flair. It’s all about balancing the romantic ruffles with something simple.
This look gives off major Targaryen vibes while keeping it modern and cool—perfect for showing off your style-savvy side without going overboard.
Inspo: Dark Structured Jackets
Targaryens don’t just ride dragons. They also rock some killer fashion, and dark structured jackets are a big part of their powerful look.
Rhaenyra often has that strong, tailored fit that says, “I’m here to rule.” These jackets only add to that fierce vibe with their cool textures and details like scales or intricate stitching.
This style has always been in vogue, from military uniforms to the iconic leather jackets of the 1950s. It’s all about looking sharp and ready to take on anything.
In Real Life: Dark Structured Jackets
Nothing says “I ride dragons” like a dark, structured jacket. You can choose a trench like Rhaenyra rocks in the very first episodes.
Alternatively, you could opt for a modernized version of this trend with a moody faux leather jacket. Unfortunately, dragon scales are not included.
Choose pieces with slightly square shoulders and unique details, like zippers and buttons. Pair it with other dark pieces to turn up the drama.
Inspo: Decorative Pins
Decorative pins are a subtle yet striking accessory that can elevate any outfit. Otto Hightower, for instance, rocks that Hand of the King pin.
These pins aren’t just for show—they symbolize status and allegiance. But decorative pins have been a staple throughout history.
They’re perfect for adding a bit of personality and history to your wardrobe, whether you opt for something whimsical or more on the serious side.
In Real Life: Decorative Pins
You don’t have to be the Hand of the King to take a nod from this House of the Dragon flair. You can find tons of unique pins today.
They’re an easy way to jazz up a jacket, blouse, or even a hat. Look for pins with interesting designs or historical motifs.
Whether you’re at work or out with friends, a well-placed pin can make you feel like you’re part of the royal court. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter!
Inspo: Peekaboo Sleeves
Peekaboo sleeves are a Targaryen classic. Rhaenyra knows how to mix elegance with a hint of playfulness, and these sleeves are all about that.
They add a subtle touch of drama, letting you show a bit of skin without going overboard. Plus, they’re perfect for those hot days in Westeros.
Peekaboo sleeves have been a hit throughout history, from the Renaissance to modern-day red carpets. They’re a fun way to add a little mystery and style to your look.
In Real Life: Peekaboo Sleeves
Ready to rock flowy, open sleeves like a modern-day Targaryen? Peekaboo sleeves are about keeping it cool. They’re perfect for pairing with your favorite jeans.
Peekaboo sleeves add a classic touch to any outfit, dressing it up enough for dinner or the workplace.
It’s like a modern nod to Targaryen fashion but totally wearable for any casual hangout. So next time you want something a bit different, try peekaboo sleeves!
Inspo: Statement Necklaces
Nothing says, “I’m literally royalty” like a big, chunky statement necklace. When Rhaenyra needs to dress to impress, you’ll notice that she always has one.
Statement necklaces have historically been a way to display wealth, and the trends in House of the Dragon show that in full swing.
A statement necklace in royal contexts is often paired with a statement belt and a statement hairpiece. But IRL, that might be a bit much.
In Real Life: Statement Necklaces
We might not be able to get our hands on Valerian steel, but that doesn’t mean we can’t incorporate this touch into our daily wardrobes.
Statement necklaces are perfect for sprucing up a hum-drum outfit or making sure you have a conversation starter at your next event.
Pair a statement necklace with pieces that are more neutral for a balanced look, or go all out with decorative touches!
Inspo: Layered Tops
Sometimes Rhaenyra wants the look of adorable cap sleeves with the warmth of long sleeves. Or maybe she’s trying to protect her arms from arrows and sword blows?
Either way, layering short sleeves over long sleeves is a memorable style choice from the show. It creates interest in a way that one-length sleeves could never.
This technique has also been popular through the ages, from medieval tunics to ’90s grunge style. It’s a look that’s both stylish and functional, so of course it’s timeless.
In Real Life: Layered Tops
Styles from the ’90s are making a comeback in a major way, and this is just another example. But as we mentioned above, the ’90s didn’t come up with this idea.
Layering a short sleeve over longer sleeves give your look more dimension and creates a cozy vibe. You can still rock your favorite graphic tees without getting a chill.
Pair layered tops with high-waisted jeans and an eye-catching, chunky belt to take your ’90s vibes to the next level. It’s a Targaryen-grunge mashup.
Inspo: High Necklines
You might think that a high neckline would make your neck appear shorter than it really is. But if Alicent Hightower is any evidence, quite the opposite is true.
Her trick is to wear a high neckline with a bit of a petal shape rather than just a standard turtle neck shape. She pairs this with long necklaces over the top.
You’ll notice that Alicent also rocks the dark structured jacket look here, giving you great inspo for both style tips. Together, they create an impressive, slightly intimidating look.
In Real Life: High Necklines
Bring some of that high-neckline magic into your everyday style. Think chic turtlenecks, stylish mock necks, and elegant high-collar blouses.
These tops are perfect for when you want to look effortlessly sophisticated. Pair a high-neck top with a statement necklace or keep it simple for a sleek look.
It’s a great way to add a bit of Targaryen (or Hightower) elegance to your wardrobe without going full medieval. Don’t be afraid of a high neckline!