Designing Women: A Hilarious Look at Southern Life and Sisterhood with Dixie Carter and Jean Smart!

Stepping back into the television landscape of 1987, one encounters a delightful ensemble comedy called Designing Women. This series, set in Atlanta, Georgia, offered a refreshingly progressive perspective on life, love, and work while simultaneously embracing the charm and quirks of Southern culture. It followed the adventures of four strong-willed women running an interior design firm called Sugarbaker & Associates: Julia Sugarbaker (Dixie Carter), Suzanne Sugarbaker (

Designing Women masterfully blended sharp wit with heartwarming sincerity. The writing was consistently clever, generating laugh-out-loud moments while also exploring complex themes like female empowerment, social justice, and family dynamics.

Each character brought a unique flavor to the show:

Julia, the eldest and owner of the firm, was known for her quick wit and unflinching opinions. Dixie Carter brought a regal presence to the role, balancing Julia’s acerbic commentary with moments of genuine warmth and vulnerability.

Suzanne, Julia’s sister, provided endless comic relief with her bubbly personality and penchant for getting into hilarious mishaps. Jean Smart delivered a tour-de-force performance as Suzanne, capturing the character’s endearing naivety while highlighting her underlying intelligence and resourcefulness.

Mary Jo, the recently divorced mother of two, brought a grounded sensibility to the group. Annie Potts perfectly portrayed Mary Jo’s mix of strength and vulnerability, navigating the challenges of single parenthood with grace and humor.

Charlene, the sweet-natured newcomer from Mississippi, added a touch of innocence and optimism to the ensemble. Judith Ivey’s portrayal of Charlene was both charming and endearing, highlighting the character’s kindness and unwavering belief in the good in people.

The dynamic between these four women was truly the heart of Designing Women. Their playful banter, supportive friendships, and occasional clashes felt authentic and relatable, making viewers feel like they were part of the Sugarbaker family. The show also featured a rotating cast of quirky clients and eccentric characters who added to its comedic charm.

Designing Women tackled social issues head-on, addressing topics like sexism, racism, homophobia, and AIDS with sensitivity and humor. While the show was undeniably funny, it never shied away from exploring the complexities of real life. Julia’s outspoken nature often led to confrontations with prejudiced individuals, providing opportunities for thought-provoking discussions about social justice.

Mary Jo’s journey as a single mother navigating dating and work challenges resonated with many viewers. Her experiences highlighted the societal pressures faced by women juggling multiple roles and the importance of supportive friendships.

The show’s commitment to progressive values set it apart from other sitcoms of the time. Designing Women wasn’t afraid to challenge traditional norms, paving the way for future shows that explored similar themes.

Despite its critical acclaim and devoted fan base, Designing Women unfortunately came to an end after seven seasons in 1993. However, its legacy continues to inspire viewers today. The show remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its sharp writing, memorable characters, and enduring message of female empowerment and social justice.

For those seeking a hilarious and heartwarming escape into the world of Southern charm and sisterhood, Designing Women is an absolute must-watch. Prepare to be entertained, enlightened, and left wanting more from this unforgettable ensemble comedy.