Forgotten '90s Fashion Trends We're Still Obsessing Over
Nineties kids will remember these once-trendy looks we wish had never died (spoiler: some haven't).
Slip dresses, bomber jackets, scrunchies and plaid flannel shirts were all the rage during the '90s — and many of these fashion trends are working their way back into vogue (although some of these pieces may have never left your closet). For all the nostalgic '90s babies out there, we've rounded up some of the decade's best fashion trends that will instantly transport you back to the heyday of grunge, hip hop and bubblegum pop.
In the '90s, celebs like Halle Berry, Naomi Campbell, Jennifer Lopez and Nia Long brought their freshest looks to red carpets and everyday activities (not to mention their amazing '90s makeup looks and '90s hairstyles). From sexy slip dresses to casual overalls to crop tops to groovy swirl patterns and cheetah prints, you'll find some of the most coveted styles of the decade on our list (many of which you may just be inspired to replicate!). And just in case you're browsing this roundup as inspiration for spooky season, you'll also want to check out our list of totally fly and fresh '90s Halloween costumes.
Slip Dresses
Actress Halle Berry wore this black slip dress to the Ninth Annual Soul Train Awards in 1995. It's a minimalist look that's elegant and alluring, no matter what decade you're wearing it in.
Plaid Flannel Shirts
From Kurt Cobain to Screech on Saved by the Bell, it seemed like everyone was wearing plaid flannel shirts in the '90s. These days, it's easy to find flannels at clothing stores and vintage shops if you're itching to recreate the casual, cozy style.
Plaid Skirts
Plaid skirts weren't just for school uniforms! Back in the '90s, long plaid skirts were all rage, as evidenced by Sarah Jessica Parker's outfit, paired with a blue poncho and red heels.
Horizontal-Striped Shirts
Neon-colored striped shirts, like this green and yellow mix worn by The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Will Smith, were a popular street style look. They're still a fun way to add some color to your wardrobe.
Overalls
Actress Alyssa Milano wore black overalls to The Lost World: Jurassic Park premiere in 1997. It's a casual outfit that's still a great option to wear if you're in a rush, but want to keep it cute.
Board Shorts
In the '90s, you didn't need to be a surfer to wear board shorts. Case in point: Actor and rapper Bobby Brown wore this black pair as a casual going-out look. If you're looking to bring this trend back, consider options with colorful patterns.
Swirl Patterns
Swirl patterns are still in, especially on flare pants similar to Brandy's eye-catching 'fit at the 24th Annual American Music Awards in 1997.
Faux Fur Coats
Colorful faux fur coats were a key component of '90s style. They'll keep you warm during cold months, while giving your outfit some edgy appeal — similar to Usher's all-yellow ensemble at the Ninth Annual Billboard Music Awards.
Crop Shirts
Crop tops are still popular, and for a good reason. They can elongate those with shorter torsos and show off the midriff area for a touch of sass. Janet Jackson's look during the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards is a prime example.
Pleather Outfits
In the '90s, pleather dresses and skirts were all the rage. Nia Long wore this shiny and sleek dress to the 1998 VH1 Fashion Awards, showing that jackets aren't the only way to sport this material. We've seen the pleather trend creeping back into popularity this year with tops, dresses and pants.
Tie-Dye
Tie-dye is back and there are so many ways to wear it! The '90s was full of colorful tie-dye caps, oversized tees and dresses, including this color-coordinated look from Destiny's Child.
Velvet Suits
Gwyneth Paltrow wore a velvet red suit to the 1996 MTV Video Music Awards. The fabric is an easy yet classy way to upgrade your work wardrobe.
Bandana Headbands
Matching your bandana with your #OOTD was the height of style in the '90s, especially on the hip-hop fashion scene.
Sequins
High-shine fabric was a showstopper in the '90s, from sequin shirts and pants to glittery hair accessories and skirts. Take a page from Michael Jackson and use the glittery fabric to stand out on a special occasion.
Colored Sunglasses
This chic sunglass trend works for any outfit, especially when you have a collection of colors to choose from.
Layered Clothing
This Versace dress worn by Naomi Campbell is a gorgeous example of the layered aesthetic. A silk gown layered under a long sweater is the perfect outfit for fall.
Sheer Fabric
The sheer trend dominated the '90s. See-through materials like lace and mesh are still equally as striking and daring today.
Leopard Print
From coats and dresses t0 hats and shirts, leopard-print attire was everywhere thanks to its playful and cool aesthetic.
Track Suits
In 1991, Whitney Houston gave a memorable performance at Super Bowl XXV in a white tracksuit.
Corset Tops
Emma Bunton (a.k.a. Baby Spice from the Spice Girls) wore this pink-and-black lace corset in the '90s.
Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an assistant editor for Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content. Mariah has more than four years of editorial experience, having written for TLC, Apartment Therapy, Women's Health and Avocado Magazine. She received her master's degree in journalism at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism and published her first book, Heart and Soul: Poems of Thoughts and Emotions, in 2019. She's also the founder of RTF Community, a platform for creatives of color to connect, learn and showcase their work.
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