It doesn’t seem all that long ago that Serena first stepped onto our small screens—and instantly seemed like the character whose closet was the one to watch, with her perfectly shrunken leather jacket, striped layers and to-die-for blond blow-out.

But just as quickly, we realized Blair was going to put up some tough competition in the best-dressed category. Remember this Eleanor Waldorf original?

Serena put up a valiant fight at first, sending us into an over-the-knee slouchy-boot tizzy. (After the revealed the designer was Steve Madden, we shamelessly went out and bought the exact same pair.)

But Blair pulled away pretty quickly, winning us over with her perfectly prim-meets-chic ensembles. She pretty much single-handedly brought back the bow.

And also the capelet! It made an amazing funky/Audreyesque twist to a shiny cocktail dress.

Game, set, match: Blair’s perfectly preppy ruffles outshine Serena’s neutrals any day.

Oh, Blair. Your striped-edged blazer? Your perfect contrasting bow? Swoon.

Blair’s dramatic Valentino dress was the perfect tulle-laden look for her birthday meltdown.

And who could forget Blair’s slumber party? Racks and racks of gorgeous clothes and lots of martinis. Next year, we want an invite.

Serena’s style became increasingly boho-downtown-disheveled over the course of the season, but we have to give a nod to her perfectly ’50s-style halter swimsuit.

Chuck started stepping up his style as well, showing real flair with his unending stream of signature scarves. (Nate and Dan, on the other hand, mostly played it safe in uniforms and by generally looking concerned and pretty.)

We’ve got to hand it to the ever-chic Lily—for Eleanor Waldorf’s Moroccan bash, she rocked one of the best side braids we’ve seen.

Brights! Headbands! Amazing yellow-striped coats! Swoon. . .

Once the high-school socialites began facing off in earnest, the museum steps became a showdown for who was best dressed. We approve!

The season finale satisfied all of our sartorial cravings with a double dose of gorgeous spring dresses. Truly, next season can’t come soon enough. . . .