Spencer Hastings is one of the main characters of the show Pretty Little Liars, which aired from 2010 to 2017 based on the novels by Sara Shepard. She is a highly intelligent, attractive, and wealthy young woman who comes from a successful ‘old money’ family with a long history in Rosewood and has a close-knit group of friends. She spends her days studying, running for valedictorian, taking part in multiple clubs, and plays sports. Despite her seemingly perfect life and privileged upbringing- Spencer the girl who seemingly has it all is neither arrogant nor stuck-up about her charmed life. There is so much more than meets the surface as she is a very kind and ambitious person possessing a lot of depth. She is noted to be the most sophisticated and intelligent of her friend group.
Even from a young age, she holds an educated look. In the very first episode, she wore a preppy look consisting of a red argyle sweater over a white button-down shirt. This is the foundation of her look that will stay with her, unlike other characters who will often experiment with different looks or evolve their personal style. Her style consists of poised and polished ensembles that are not only well suited to lifestyle needs but personality as she always possessed a strong sense of self.
Spencer was confident and calculating in demeanor for instance she would stand up to Alison when no one else could, showing her independence, determination, and courage. Though an independent thinker, Spencer is one to follow rules and logic. She is defensive and protective of her loved ones, willing to do anything to protect those she cares for. She held a strong moral compass and a sense of right and wrong, but would feel the need to blur the line to achieve because her family didn’t accept anything but perfection through her upbringing-
BUT I’M GOING TO WIN A BIG FAT AWARD, SO I’M GUESSING YOU’RE OKAY WITH THAT- Y’KNOW BECAUSE WINNING IS ALL THAT MATTERS RIGHT? OKAY, THEY REJECTED ME AND WHEREVER I GO AFTER GRADUATION IT WON’T BE TO THE FAMILY ALMA MATER
THAT’S EARLY ADMISSION THERE ARE THINGS WE CAN DO. IS SHE OKAY? NO, SHE ISN’T AND YOU’RE NOT HELPING HER. LOOK WHETHER YOU’VE EARNED IT OR NOT YOU HAVE A REPUTATION AND MY DAUGHTER CAN’T AFFORD TO BE SEEN WITH YOU.
Their image Is very important as a prominent family in Rosewood. The exterior image and life of Spencer comes from her hyper-vigilant and hyper-self awareness which is the underlying drive to upkeep a well-put-together look, and academic and personal achievements.
Her fear of disappointing her parents or falling into her sister’s shadow makes her do questionable things out of paranoia. Spencer is not only on a mission to be the best version of herself and beat the competition, but to outdo her older sister, Melissa.
YOU HAVE AN EYE FOR DESIGN. I’M GLAD YOU LIKE IT. AND I TOTALLY APPRECIATE YOU LETTING US MOVE IN. NO, I’M MOVING IN FOR JUNIOR YEAR MELISSA. THAT’S THE DEAL I MADE WITH MOM AND DAD. I GOT THE GRADES, I DID THE INTERNSHIP, I GAVE UP MY SUMMER BECAUSE I WANTED THIS. But no matter how high her GPA is or how many extracurricular clubs she fits into her schedule, the only time Spencer gets the better of Melissa is when it comes to her romantic relationships.
Her not-so-innocent indiscretions aren’t very evident since she sports a prim and proper look. Spencer’s fashion is very preppy and polished. She has a more modern approach that is a bit trend-oriented of 2010, but has the most sophisticated wardrobe out of the liars.
A LOT OF HER’S IS JUST LIKE REALLY OLDER MONEY SPECIAL THINGS THAT MAYBE SHE GOT FROM HER CLOSET HER MOM’S OLD CHANEL SHIRT, ACCOMPANIED WITH A GREAT BROWN LEATHER BELT, GREAT SKIRTS, SHE’S GOT THE LIGHTER THE NAVYS THE REDS STRIPES ARE GREAT IF I WOULD DO BLAZERS YOUTH IT UP BY PUTTING SOME PATTERNS ON THE INSIDE OF THE SLEEVES. I ACCOMPANY HER STUFF A LOT WITH PEARLS AND GOLD BUT SHE MAY DO SOMETHING LIKE WRAP IT IN A KNOT. YOU KNOW A COUPLE TIMES AROUND THE NECK SO SHE DOESN’T GO WITH HOW IT’S SUPPOSED TO BE WORN, BUT SHE DOES GO WITH THE CLASSICS.
In terms of tropes, she falls into the “Too Clever by Half,” as she is incredibly intelligent, often is good at whatever she pursues, and as a result, is continually driven to go farther. Characters of this trope are usually aware that their intellect is very defining of them, this may lead to arrogance
HE DOESN’T KNOW THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A MONET AND A MOJITO. SPENCER WHAT MAKES YOU SO SURE YOU’RE GOING TO WIN THE COMPETITION? YEAH, RIGHT I FORGOT IT’S IN YOUR DNA. IT’S THIS FRENCH PAINTER- WHO PAINTED. YEAH, IN A WORD. I FIGURED I CAN SET UP A CHAIR AND FAN MYSELF WHILE I WATCH YOU WORK. or the opposite- meekness. A QUESTION SPENCER HASTINGS CAN’T ANSWER? INTERESTING. IT’S NOT THAT INTERESTING…
Many times, characters of these tropes will suffer an impediment or endure a form of prejudice to the point where they need to achieve the extraordinary in their field if they’re going to be seen as a success at all due to how higher standard they themselves and the world around them holds them to. When she fails to uphold this standard or burns out,
I FEEL LIKE WHOLE PARTS OF MY BRAIN HAVE SHUT DOWN. I USED TO LOVE ALGEBRA OR AT LEAST I UNDERSTOOD IT AND NOW IT IS A MESS. WELL, IT CAN GET REALLY ABSTRACT. YEAH, BUT THAT’S WHAT I LIKED ABOUT IT.
Spencer has very drastic appearance changes that reflect her struggles that are usually hidden, but captured in the details. During hard times this all comes to the surface- the energy it channeled into self-preservation rather than upholding image.
but there is another that dictates this at times-, she has a strong case of perfectionism. This is not the same as striving for the best, perfectionism is not driven by healthy growth with the celebration of achievements, but by feelings of unworthiness, insecurity, and usually adverse childhood experiences. These thoughts and maladaptive perfectionist actions often are linked to stress, anxiety, and depression and may fuel other strains in regard to mental health. This is important to note as struggles of mental health never have a specific look, everyone’s experience and image is different.
Perfectionists though are actually often praised and appear as some of the most put-together people externally despite the struggle within. Many times, Spencer is the most composed out of not just her friend group, but in a vast majority of her environments, except in her home life where she is adhering to a standard. Spencer’s fashion produces the clean-cut coveted image of her family, she manifests her goals externally and her image serves her to accomplish her goals- From high school debate team to the campaign trail in her work as a Paralegal after graduation.
A person’s everyday fashion is connected to an individual’s disposition of who they are. Fashion visually communicates and personal style serves as a tangible depiction of the whole, part, or chosen identity to display. Fashion goes beyond clothing or the way one may dress, it is also our appearances, traditions, culture, values, and characteristics by which we identify with.
In regards to the Four-Temperament Ensemble, a proto-psychological theory that revolves around four fundamental personality types with blends, Spencer is Choleric-Phlegmatic, meaning that she is result-oriented, determined, and focused. Their drive is created out of the need to get results and accommodate others. They slowly build a few close relationships and build strong bonds.
Her external demeanor is highly composed despite her internal state. The strengths of a Choleric- phlegmatic are traits of being ambitious, dominant, natural leaders, observant, good under pressure, easy-going and quieter, but witty as well as easy to get along with. The weakness of those tends to be that they will often worry, be very sarcastic, or come off as unenthusiastic or judgemental due to how they think so much.
They are calmer people who are not as prone to emotional outbursts until they hit their breaking point because of their logical mindset. When they do hit this point, they tend to be irrational and drastic since logic is no longer a comfort.
I-OKAY I’M CONFUSED. OKAY, YOU JUST DON’T SEE- HOW CAN YOU GUYS NOT SEE WHAT HAPPENING?
Her CholericPhlegmatic nature gives her the tendency to be very practical, empathetic, and a good arbitrator. Phlegmatics don’t expend energy on activities that are not beneficial or done correctly. They watch others and internally decide how to initiate. Their use of ideas and talents is only put into action when they decide it is a good use of energy or time, ultimately done correctly. Cholerics want to be in charge because of confidence in their innate sense or beliefs inability to make better decisions, yet are highly prone to burnout. The overwhelming exhaustion, feelings of cynicism, and detachment will provoke a sense of reduced accomplishment and loss of personal identity.
When the emotional mind is no longer guided by the rational, the breaking point releases the innermost feelings without rhythm or reason. Spencer is considered the intellect among her friends because of her dedication and love for learning combined with her logical demeanor.
They are task-oriented with a robust capacity for work that requires precision and accuracy. Often they are observant because they strive to understand the world around them, hence are good students not only in the classroom but also in life.
Spencer’s personality, upbringing, and environment have drawn her to preppy fashion as the preppy subculture was originally about quality education in the classics. The subculture has a nature of vocabulary, speech patterns, etiquette, and dress to reflect their athletic and academic traditionally upper-class lifestyle. In fashion, preppy style and the Ivy look denote an aesthetic based on a grand history that is visually conveyed through understated, neat, and well-made clothing giving a look of mastered relaxed confidence and a laid-back scholarly type of sophistication. If you’re interested in learning about preppy fashion sociology, history, and styling A GUIDE TO PREPPY & IVY LEAGUE STYLE is available for further information.
Spencer’s fashion is built from a foundation of preppy style. She often sports neat, understated, and more expensive clothing. Her nature is not completely clean and polished though so the details of her looks are formed from the unexpected such as taking the standard lace tights and pairing them with roughed-up beat leather oxfords for example. This hints at her imperfection and fragile mindset that is beneath her put-together surface that is buried beneath layers of luxury. Her clever and heavily educated worldview is depicted in her wardrobe. She shares the best parts of herself and by breaking the unsaid rules with her trendy youthful approach she expresses her personality.
Spencer often opts for layering bringing in different essences that suggest the influence of classic all-American designs through colors and textures. In the novels, the author often would name brands the girls were wearing. High fashion houses do not only sell clothing but an entire lifestyle and essence for those who wear the clothing.
When you purchase from the brand you’re not just buying a shirt or purse, but into an entire history that shaped the aesthetic and making it a part of you. The brands Spencer is noted wearing and taking on the essence of are Like ‘70s Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, and Hermes. Preppy fashion in nature has a luxury essence which suggests that the wearer is well off, upper class, and conservative due to the history of this style.
These classic ensembles were very similar in nature to menswear Usually made of luxurious fabrics and featured jewelry with a refined style. Such clothing often includes elements drawn from typical preppy styles, such as nautical stripes, pastel colors, or equestrian details. These types of essences can be found often in Spencer’s accessories and color schemes. She sticks more with muted hues and adds dimension through blazers, jackets, long cardigans, knee-high socks, and textures such as wool, silks, and cashmere. Timeless pieces that she wore were oxford button-down shirts, bows, plaid, loafers, and nautical stripes. preppy accents are often included in her outfits.
Some take on preppy fashion include traditional upper-class leisure activities such as polo, sailing, lacrosse, golf, tennis, rugby, and swimming. Symbolizing traits of strength and leadership. Students developed a sense of style that combined athletic clothes with the traditional, classy look.
Spencer sports this take on preppy fashion as she participates in multiple sports as extracurricular activities. She has a slim and athletic figure from playing field hockey, tennis, and other sports that keep her image and figure perfectly intact. She dresses in a manner to practice and hone her skills, but it also allows for a “productive” release of her inner aggressions.
Choleric- Phlegmatics often cannot rest easily or do tasks that are not productive. We see the sporty pieces blend more into her wardrobe in times of crisis as she depends more on physical activity to be an outlet of her hidden emotional state because of her structured and pristine, yet fragile mindset.
Besides sportswear, some important aspects of the preppy look are conservatism, attention to detail, wearing the “right” brand, androgyny, and layering, which is the base foundation of Spencer’s look since often wears traditionally masculine pieces and androgynous ensembles as preppy fashion was originally used to exert dominance of intelligence and class over others. Spencer does this as she intimidates her competition, even when she feels weak she is still able to conceal her emotions through her image. Typically she finishes off looks with more structured garments to take away from her softness.
When the occasion calls, Spencer goes for the old-money beauty and feminine look. Spencer’s everyday look is never flashy but will dress up for events. For example at homecoming. But even in her silver party dress and a chunky necklace, she didn’t betray her style: her look was structured, yet feminine, with interesting textural fabric and jewelry that mixed pearls and chains. This is a huge part of her personality expressed through her fashion in both formal and casual settings. The mixture of add-ons to the top of the classic look is the add-on of her mindset to the educational preppy look.
As time passes, Spencer heals and learns to manage all aspects of her personality and has become sure of who she is and what she wants out of life. Her hidden nature is kind and loving a person who wants happiness- but the world around her doesn’t allow her to explore this, instead, she engages in ruthless behavior while trying to have a proper look until she gains the strength to create her own choices and full embrace herself outside of the pressures of her past. Her preppy style is still strong within her wardrobe, as an adult she drifts away from the schoolgirl-type look and more into a business-savvy look when she begins down a new path inspired by her political aspirations and career. In the finale, she went for chic, fitted trousers, and a tucked-in plaid button-down shirt.
Choleric-Phlegmatics are natural negotiators and diplomats who can spot flaws, advocate, and are set in their ways making her career path clear as she works as a Paralegal at Hastings and Hastings. Her style evolution is quite stagnant, she doesn’t enjoy constant change, but the comfort of the familiar as her clever mindset is the foundation of her life.
Her style of youth is matured and she continues to sport the preppy look, but with less internal distress that is evident through her cleaner lines, incorporation of soft colors, and patterns as an adult signifying how she wants to create change from anguish to betterment. Growth is visually captured tangibly, for Spencer her image of a preppy look in hand with a strong-willed demeanor and cleverness helps her navigate the world to find happiness and peace as she uses her intelligence to create a better world for loved ones and self.
SOURCES: Subculture and Sociology of Prep: https://haenfler.sites.grinnell.edu/prep-preppies/ Spencer Hastings- Pretty Little Liars: https://prettylittleliars.fandom.com/wiki/Spencer_Hastings Spencer Hastings Style Tips: https://www.collegefashion.net/inspiration/how-to-dress-like-the-pretty-little-liars-spencer/ Temperaments-https://fivetemperaments.weebly.com/phlegmatic.html https://fourtemperaments.com/15-temperament-blends/#1456996230805-25dfb152-33ac Perfectionists- https://www.goodtherapy.org/learn-about-therapy/issues/perfectionism Clever Trope:https://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/TooCleverByHalf The Effect of Stress Coping Techniques in Sports: https://scholarship.claremont.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?referer=https://www.google.com/&httpsredir=1&article=2319&context=cmc_theses Ivy Style: http://www.ivy-style.com/everything-you-always-wanted-to-know-about-prep.html The Relationship Between Fashion and Personality: https://www.allpeers.com/the-relationship-between-fashion-and-personality/
