The phrase “what goes around comes around” is often used to define karma but also applies to the fashion cycle. Trends and styles once deemed cutting-edge and daring have become outdated and unattractive, only to be revived and re-worn decades later. And it appears that the cycle is accelerating. Fashion that was cool in the 1990s is now fabulous again, less than 20 years later.
Whether on the runway, in the streets, or in the stores, ’90s fashion is everywhere. Women are embracing ’90s fashion by merging traditional and modern designs to create distinct everyday styles that are easy, informal, and trendy. There are several ’90s ensembles worth wearing this year, from dresses, slacks, and tops to accessories, shoes, and hairstyles. The key to rocking the look is to learn how to mix and match complementary items without going overboard with nostalgia.
If you’re having trouble locating appealing clothes or pulling off the decade’s attire, we can help you find the correct look and show you how to wear it now. Check out our guide to all the top ’90s fashion trends to explore right now for new ideas and inspiration. So embrace your crop tops, chokers, and Doc Martens, and we’ll show you how to style them modernly. Here’s how to rock the ’90s style today.
Overview of 90s Fashion Trends
While the eighties’ high fashion and larger-than-life trends were fashionable at the decade’s start, style swiftly evolved towards less glamorous and more casual attire.
Moss’ waif-like thinness and delicacy complemented the untidy image that was fashionable in the early 1990s, while the casual grunge look clashed with the beauty of the supermodels. Moss’ waif-like thinness and delicacy complemented the untidy image that was fashionable in the early 1990s, while the casual grunge look clashed with the beauty of the supermodels.
Styles got more feminine again in the mid-nineties. During this time, slip dresses embodied the minimalist aesthetic. Slip dresses were worn formally, and a slip dress over a white t-shirt was a famous daily outfit. During the middle of the decade, the “sexy schoolgirl” aesthetic became popular, as seen in films like Clueless and later in Britney Spears’s “Baby One More Time” song video. Young women wore oversized sweaters, baby doll t-shirts, and knee-high socks to create this style.
The informal look persisted throughout the decade. Utilitarian styles like cargo pants and The Gap’s sweatshirts have become fashionable for everyday wear.
Designers such as Helmut Lang put a trendy spin on parkas, combat trousers, and other items worn by outdoor adventurers, and this was emulated in high fashion.
This coincided with a shift towards logoed apparel. Tommy Hilfiger nailed it with casual wear with a lot of branding. As the new century approached, women’s fashion shifted to a more bohemian style inspired by the 1970s. Embroidery, blended materials, and Eastern inspirations have all made a comeback in fashion.
What are the Popular Types of 90s Fashion Styles?
Denim button-down Western shirts, colored jeans in medium and dark green, red, and purple, metallic Spandex leggings, halterneck crop tops, drainpipe jeans, colored tights, bike shorts, black leather jackets with shoulder pads, baby-doll dresses over bike shorts or Capri leggings, and skater dresses were popular among the women.
Khaki chinos, navy blue blazers, Oxford shirts, brogues, Keds worn with everything, especially leggings, slouch socks, oversized sweatshirts, sweaters, tees, boat shoes, ballet flats, coach jackets, baseball jackets, mum jeans, shortalls, jeans worn with a leotard as a top, shorts or skirts worn with blazers (for girls), short suit with dress shorts with tights, Leggings with an oversized v-neck sweater over a turtleneck, slouch socks, and Keds or Sperrys were typical 90s outfits.
Upper elementary, middle school, high school, and college-aged girls favored neat, well-groomed hairstyles such as bangs, straightened hair, cut side bunches, or high regular ponytails with scrunchies and headbands.
The Key Features of 90s Women’s Fashion?
Women’s fashion in the 1990s had a distinctive look that reflected the cultural and social changes of the decade. Some of the critical features of 90s women’s fashion included:
Grunge style: The grunge style was popularized by musicians like Kurt Cobain and bands like Nirvana. It featured ripped jeans, oversized flannel shirts, and combat boots.
Crop tops were a popular trend in the 90s, often worn with high-waisted jeans or skirts. They came in various styles, from simple tank tops to elaborate crop tops with intricate patterns.
Baggy clothes: Oversized clothing was in fashion in the 90s, with baggy jeans, oversized jackets, and loose-fitting t-shirts being popular.
Platform shoes: Platform shoes were popular in the 90s, with platform sneakers and sandals being trendy.
Denim everything: Denim was a staple of 90s fashion, with denim jackets, skirts, and jeans worn together in a single outfit. The Canadian tuxedo, which consists of denim jeans and a denim jacket worn together, was also famous.
Neon colors: Bright neon colors were a popular choice in the 90s, with neon green, pink, and yellow being particularly popular.
Slip dresses: Slip dresses were popular in the 90s, often worn with a t-shirt underneath or a cardigan over the top.
Chokers: Chokers were a popular accessory in the 90s, with black velvet chokers being trendy.
Scrunchies: Scrunchies were a popular hair accessory in the 90s, with brightly colored scrunchies worn in the hair or around the wrist.
The Inspirations of Fashion Trends in the 90s
The 1990s were a decade of significant social, cultural, and economic change, which influenced the fashion trends of the time. Some of the key inspirations for 90s fashion trends include:
- Grunge music: The grunge music scene, particularly in Seattle, heavily influenced 90s fashion with its signature style of ripped jeans, flannel shirts, and oversized clothing.
- Hip-hop culture: Hip-hop culture also had a significant impact on 90s fashion, with its signature style of baggy clothes, athletic wear, and gold jewelry.
- Supermodels: The 90s were the era of the supermodel, with models like Cindy Crawford, Naomi Campbell, and Kate Moss setting fashion trends with minimalist, chic styles.
- Television shows: Popular TV shows of the 90s, such as “Friends” and “Beverly Hills 90210,” also influenced fashion trends with their characters’ wardrobe choices.
- Pop stars: Pop stars of the 90s, such as Britney Spears, Spice Girls, and TLC, also had a significant impact on fashion trends with their colorful, playful outfits.
- Streetwear: The rise of streetwear culture in the 90s, particularly in urban areas, influenced fashion with its mix of athletic wear, baggy clothes, and oversized jackets.
- Vintage fashion: The popularity of vintage clothing in the 90s, mainly 70s and 80s styles, also influenced fashion trends, with flared jeans, platform shoes, and retro prints making a comeback.
The inspirations for 90s fashion trends were diverse and reflected the cultural and social changes of the decade, as well as a desire for comfort and individual expression.
Famous Fashion Designers in the 90s
The 1990s saw the emergence of several prominent fashion designers who shaped the decade’s trends. Some of the most famous fashion designers of the 90s include:
Gianni Versace: The Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace was known for his bold, colorful designs, including his signature Baroque prints and gold accents.
Calvin Klein: Calvin Klein was a prominent American fashion designer who helped define the minimalist aesthetic of the 90s with his simple, clean lines and understated designs.
Marc Jacobs: Marc Jacobs rose to fame in the 90s with his grunge-inspired designs, including his famous “grunge” collection for Perry Ellis in 1992.
Tom Ford: Tom Ford became Gucci’s creative director in 1994 and helped transform the brand into a leading fashion house with his sleek, sexy design.
Jean-Paul Gaultier: The French fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier was known for his avant-garde designs, including his signature cone bras and corsets.
Donna Karan: Donna Karan was a prominent American fashion designer who created the “Seven Easy Pieces” collection in 1985, revolutionizing women’s workwear and influencing the minimalist aesthetic of the 90s.
Alexander McQueen: Alexander McQueen was a British fashion designer who rose to fame in the 90s with his bold, theatrical designs that pushed the boundaries of fashion.
These designers and many others helped shape the fashion trends of the 90s and left a lasting impact on the industry.
How to Incorporate 90s Style into Modern Fashion?
The 90s style has come back in recent years, and it’s easy to incorporate into modern fashion. Here are some tips on how to do it:
Embrace the grunge style: Incorporate ripped jeans, oversized flannel shirts, and combat boots into your wardrobe to achieve the grunge look. You can layer tops and jackets for a more relaxed, casual vibe.
Wear crop tops with high-waisted bottoms: Crop tops were a staple of 90s fashion, but they can still be worn today by pairing them with high-waisted jeans or skirts. This combination creates a flattering silhouette while also nodding to the 90s style.
Experiment with bold prints and neon colors: Bold prints and neon colors were famous in the 90s and can still make a statement in modern fashion. Try incorporating a bold print top or neon accessory into your outfit for a pop of color.
Accessorize with chokers and scrunchies: Chokers and scrunchies were popular in the 90s and can still be incorporated into modern fashion. Try pairing a black velvet choker with a simple outfit, or add a scrunchie to your ponytail for a fun, retro touch.
Mix and match denim: Denim was a staple of 90s fashion and can still be worn today. Try mixing and matching denim pieces, such as a denim jacket with jeans or a denim skirt with a denim shirt, for a unique and stylish look.
Incorporating 90s style into modern fashion is mixing and matching different pieces and experimenting with bold prints and colors. Don’t be afraid to try new things and have fun with your wardrobe!
Tips for Blending 90s Fashion Elements into Modern Outfits
Blending 90s fashion elements into modern outfits can be a fun way to add retro flair to your style. Here are some tips for incorporating 90s fashion elements into your everyday wardrobe:
Mix and match: One of the keys to blending 90s fashion elements into modern outfits is to mix and match different pieces. For example, pair a cropped t-shirt with high-waisted jeans or a plaid skirt with a denim jacket.
Choose a statement piece: Incorporate a statement piece from the 90s into your modern outfits, such as a bold print shirt, a choker necklace, or a scrunchie. Keep the rest of your outfit simple to let the statement piece stand out.
Add some edge: The 90s were all about sharpness and attitude. Incorporate this into your modern outfit by adding leather jackets, combat boots, or ripped denim.
Experiment with layering: Layering was a popular trend in the 90s and can still be incorporated into modern outfits. Try layering a t-shirt over a long-sleeved shirt or wearing a slip-dress over a t-shirt.
Embrace the grunge look: The grunge look was a defining trend of the 90s, with ripped jeans, flannel shirts, and combat boots. Incorporate these elements into your modern outfit for a relaxed, casual look.
Blending 90s fashion elements into modern outfits is about having fun and expressing your style. Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment with different combinations of clothes and accessories.
Hair Styles in 90s Fashion
Women’s hairstyles throughout the 1990s were adorable, lively, and trendy. Jennifer Aniston’s “The Rachel” haircut from Friends was one of the most popular ’90s hairstyles. This was not, however, the only fashionable hairdo of the decade.
Others preferred the lengthier, choppy pixie cut with little bangs, inspired by Winona Ryder’s look in the 1994 romantic comedy Reality Bites. Among the other famous faces was a bob with baby bangs, sleek straight hair fashioned with a deep center part, pigtails, and half-up, half-down hairdos.
Hair in the 1990s was never dull, from untidy high buns with strands framing the face to high ponytails and braids. Scrunchies, colorful or patterned barrettes, and butterfly clips can be used to accessorize these looks.
Makeups for 90s Style
Bold and minimalist looks characterized the 90s makeup style. Here are some tips on how to do makeup for the 90s fashion style:
Matte skin: The 90s makeup style was all about the matte finish. Apply a matte foundation and powder to achieve a smooth, even complexion.
Neutral lips: Neutral shades like brown and nude were famous for lips in the 90s. Opt for matte lipstick or a lip liner to achieve this look.
Bold brows: The 90s makeup style featured bold, natural-looking eyebrows. Use a brow pencil or gel to define and fill your brows.
Smokey eyes: Smokey eyes were a staple of 90s makeup. Use neutral shades like brown and black to create a soft, smudged effect.
Dark lip liner: Dark lip liner was a popular trend in the 90s. Apply a dark liner to your lips and blend it with your lipstick for a defined, dramatic look.
Metallic eyeshadow: Metallic eyeshadow was a popular trend in the 90s. Apply a shimmery shade of eyeshadow to your eyelids to achieve this look.
Glitter: Glitter was a popular trend in the 90s, especially for special occasions. Apply glitter to your eyelids or lips for a fun and festive touch.
90s makeup was all about bold and minimalist looks. Keep your makeup simple and understated for an authentic 90s vibe.
Accessorizing for 90s Style
The 90s fashion style was all about accessorizing with statement pieces that were bold and distinctive. Here are some of the most popular accessories for 90s fashion style:
Chokers: Chokers were a defining accessory of the 90s. They came in various materials, from velvet to plastic, and were often embellished with beads or charms.
Hair accessories: Hair accessories like scrunchies, butterfly clips, and headbands were popular in the 90s. They added a playful and youthful touch to any outfit.
Platform shoes: Platform shoes were a must-have in the 90s. They came in various styles, from sneakers to sandals, and added height and attitude to any outfit.
Hoop earrings: Hoop earrings were a staple of 90s fashion. They were often oversized and came in various materials, from gold to silver.
Backpacks: Backpacks were a popular accessory in the 90s. They were often made of canvas or nylon and featured bold patterns or logos.
Sunglasses: Sunglasses were a crucial accessory in the 90s. The most popular styles were oval-shaped, rectangular, or small and round.
Bandanas: Bandanas were a versatile accessory in the 90s. They could be worn in various patterns and colors around the neck, head, or wrist.
90s fashion was all about making a statement with bold and distinctive accessories. Incorporate some statement pieces into your outfits to achieve an authentic 90s fashion vibe.
FAQ:
What was ladies’ fashion in the 90s?
Denim button-down Western shirts, colored jeans in medium and dark green, red, and purple, metallic Spandex leggings, halterneck crop tops, drainpipe jeans, colored tights, bike shorts, black leather jackets with shoulder pads, baby-doll dresses over bike shorts or Capri leggings, and skater dresses were popular among the women.
Black or white shirts, leggings, and jackets printed with abstract red, blue, yellow, and green geometric patterns were popular, as were leopard print skirts[20], shiny satin or rayon blouses, embroidered jeans covered in rhinestones, and embroidered jeans covered in rhinestones.
Court shoes, cowboy boots, headscarves, slouch socks, Keds, ballerina flats, and penny loafers or boat shoes associated with the preppy look were all fashionable accessories in America.
What are some 90s trends?
- Crop Tops
- Mood Rings
- Boob Tubes
- Trucker Caps
- Leather Blazers
- Slip Maxi Dresses
- Crushed Velvet
- Camo Pants
What did moms wear in the 90s?
Pair a cropped turtleneck long-sleeved top or bodysuit with a silk high-waisted bias-cut midi or maxi skirt. With a turtleneck tee and cropped embroidered waistcoat, replace the dress with a pair of airy, wide-leg pants. With sensible sneakers and white socks, pay homage to 90s moms.
