The 90s were a vibrant decade for fashion, a melting pot of micro-trends, bold accessories, and a distinct sense of cool. Whether you realize it or not, 90s styles are subtly influencing today’s wardrobes. From a strategically placed velvet choker to a romp in combat boots, 90s fashion is back. Let’s dive into some of the most iconic 90s style elements that are ripe for revival.
90s Fashion Essentials: Reviving the Iconic Trends
This section explores the key pieces that defined 90s fashion, each with modern interpretations and shopping suggestions.
Bucket Hats: From Streetwear to High Fashion
The bucket hat, a 90s streetwear staple, has transcended its origins and now graces runways and everyday outfits alike. Modern iterations come in various fabrics, colors, and designs, making them versatile accessories for summer dresses, denim jumpsuits, or athleisure looks.
Shop the Trend:
- High-End: Coachtopia Bucket Hat In Repurposed Denim
- Sporty: Adidas Victory 4 Bucket Hat
- Budget-Friendly: Mashiaoyi Floral Print Reversible Bucket Hat
Baby Tees: The Shrunken Tee with Maximum Impact
Midriffs were in, and the baby tee, a shrunken version of a regular t-shirt, reigned supreme. Often featuring colorful cuffs, these adorable tops are making a comeback, offering a playful yet stylish alternative to crop tops.
Shop the Trend:
- Designer: Coachtopia Baby T Shirt: Let Us Take A Trip
- Everyday Basic: Everlane The Ribbed Baby Tee
- Statement Piece: Rivet & Thread Baby Tee in Colorblock
Slip Dresses: Effortless Elegance and 90s Glamour
The slip dress, characterized by its spaghetti straps and below-the-knee hem, was a 90s staple for both casual and formal occasions. Today, this versatile piece continues to exude effortless elegance and can be dressed up or down with ease.
Shop the Trend:
- Classic: Gwyneth Cupro-Blend Slip Dress
- Luxurious: 100% Washable Silk Slip Dress
- Edgy: ALLSAINTS Hadley Dress
Thick Headbands: A Romantic Touch to Any Hairstyle
Thick, often braided, headbands were a quintessential 90s accessory. They added a touch of romance and sophistication to any look, and their resurgence today offers a charming way to elevate a simple hairstyle.
Shop the Trend:
- Luxury: Jasmine Chong Sugar Gathered Headband
- Embellished: Tasha Beaded Headband
- Simple & Chic: BIEN ABYÉ Chambray Headband
Bike Shorts: From Gym Wear to Street Style Staple
Bike shorts, once relegated to athletic activities, became a surprising fashion statement in the 90s. Today, their versatility continues to shine as they pair seamlessly with blazers, sweatshirts, or sports bras, offering a comfortable yet chic option.
Shop the Trend:
- High-Quality: Next to Naked Bike Shorts
- Affordable: The Perform Bike Short
- Activewear: Dragon Fit Yoga Shorts
Combat Boots: The Epitome of 90s Grunge
Combat boots, with their heavy, military-inspired design, were a cornerstone of 90s grunge fashion. Doc Martens remain a popular choice, but numerous brands offer diverse styles, from classic lace-up to zippered designs.
Shop the Trend:
- Iconic: Dr. Martens 1460 Boot
- Stylish Alternative: Frye Veronica Combat Boot
- Platform Style: Sam Edelman Garret Platform Combat Boot
Claw Clips: The Quick and Easy 90s Hairstyle Solution
Claw clips, the simple yet effective hair accessory, were a go-to for effortlessly keeping hair out of the face in the 90s. Their resurgence today has elevated them from casual hair tamers to stylish statement pieces for any occasion.
Shop the Trend:
- Basic Set: Hair Clip 3-Pack
- Trendy: Urban Outfitters Rue Rectangle Claw Clip
- Statement Piece: Madewell Abstract Medium Claw Hair Clip
Velvet Suits: Luxurious Texture Meets 90s Style
Velvet, a fabric synonymous with luxury, found a prominent place in 90s fashion, particularly in suiting. Whether as a subtle accent on a collar or a full-blown velvet ensemble, this texture adds a touch of playfulness to formal wear.
Shop the Trend:
- Modern: RIHOAS The Casual One Button Green Velvet Blazer
- Vintage Inspired: ASOS Reclaimed Vintage Limited Edition Unisex Velvet Suit Jacket
- Bold & Striped: I Saw It First Plus Stripe Velvet Blazer
Plaid Flannel Shirts: The Grunge Staple That Never Left
Plaid flannel shirts, a quintessential 90s grunge piece, have remarkably remained a fashion constant. Their versatility makes them suitable for various occasions, from outdoor adventures to casual outings or lounging at home.
Shop the Trend:
- Outdoor: REI Co-op Wallace Lake Flannel Shirt
- Elevated: Faherty Legend Sweater Shirt
- Classic: Madewell Flannel Kempton Button-Up Shirt in Check
Fanny Packs: The Hands-Free Bag Reinvented
Fanny packs, a practical 90s accessory, have been reimagined for modern use. Worn cross-body instead of around the waist, they offer a convenient and stylish way to carry essentials.
Shop the Trend:
- Durable: Baboon to the Moon Fanny Pack
- Trendy: ASOS DESIGN Curve Fanny Pack in Borg
- Classic: JanSport Pakalong
Flared Jeans: The Comeback of the Bell Bottom
Flared jeans, a defining element of 70s fashion that made a resurgence in the 90s, are once again gracing the fashion scene. While the flare may be less dramatic than its predecessors, the subtle kick adds a retro touch to modern outfits.
Shop the Trend:
- Modern Flare: AE Ne(x)t Level Festival Flare Jean
- Iconic Denim: Levis Movin’ On High Rise Flare Jeans
- Budget-Friendly: H&M Flared Jeans
Hoop Earrings: A Timeless Jewelry Staple
Large, thick hoop earrings were a jewelry box essential in the 90s. Today, hoop earrings continue to be a timeless accessory, available in various sizes and designs, from thin and delicate to bold and statement-making.
Shop the Trend:
- Affordable: PAVOI Gold-Plated Earrings
- Classic: Machete .75″ Perfect Hoops in Gold
- Modern: Gorjana Crew Hoops
- Elevated: Mejuri Dôme Hoops
Scrunchies: The Playful Hair Accessory
Scrunchies, often made with colorful, excess fabric, were a fun and playful way to accessorize hair in the 90s. They continue to add a touch of whimsy and personality to hairstyles today.
Shop the Trend:
- Individual: Parade Scrunchie
- Variety Pack: XL Scrunchie Set
Crop Tops: Showing Some Skin with 90s Flair
Unlike the slightly shrunken baby tee, crop tops intentionally bare midriff. Paired with high-waisted bottoms, they create a bold and confident look that’s both flattering and fashionable.
Shop the Trend:
- Designer: Skims New Vintage Cropped Raglan T-Shirt
- Athletic: Old Navy PowerChill Cropped Cross-Front Fitted T-Shirt
- Versatile: Lululemon All Yours Cropped T-Shirt
Sheer Fabrics: Subtle Hints or Bold Statements
Sheer fabrics, from mesh to see-through tops, were a daring trend in the 90s. Today, sheer clothing offers a range of styling options, from subtle peek-a-boo moments to bold, layered looks.
Shop the Trend:
- Bohemian: Free People Filter Finish Long Sleeve Top
- Bodycon: ASOS Rebellious Fashion Ruched Long Sleeve Midi Dress
- Colorblock: Topshop Colorblock Mesh Long Sleeve Midi Dress
Colored Sunglasses: Adding a Pop of 90s Cool
Colored sunglasses, especially in cat-eye or uniquely shaped frames, were a must-have accessory in the 90s. From pastel hues to vibrant shades, colored lenses continue to add a retro-inspired cool to any look.
Shop the Trend:
- Statement: Le Specs Work It! Sunglasses
- Affordable: ASOS SVNX Mini Oval Sunglasses
- Classic: Le Specs Outta Love Brown
Cargo Pants: Utilitarian Chic with a 90s Edge
Cargo pants, known for their multiple pockets and utilitarian design, were a key element of 90s style. From drawstring parachute pants to bootcut styles, cargo pants continue to offer a blend of comfort and edgy cool.
Shop the Trend:
- High-Quality: Universal Standard Utility Pocket Pants
- Y2K Inspired: BDG Y2K Corduroy Low-Rise Cargo Pant
- Straight Leg: Stradivarius Tall Straight Leg Cargo Pants
Corset Tops: Feminine and Edgy
Corset tops, popularized by designers like Thierry Mugler, added a touch of feminine edge to 90s wardrobes. Lace-up fronts and various patterns and colors make corset tops a statement piece that can be dressed up or down.
Shop the Trend:
- Embellished: ASOS Design Curve Hotfix Crystal Stud Corset Top
- Basic: ASOS Design Rib Fitted Corset Top
- Faux Leather: Remi x Revolve Ali Faux Leather Corset Top
The 90s were a defining decade for fashion, and its influence continues to resonate today. Embrace the nostalgia and incorporate these iconic pieces into your modern wardrobe for a unique and stylish look.
