Strappy dresses, bomber jackets, scrunchies and plaid flannel shirts were all the rage in the ’90s – and many of these fashion trends are making a comeback (although some of these pieces may not have be ever left your closet). For all the 90s nostalgic babies, we’ve rounded up some of the best fashion trends of the decade that will instantly transport you to the heyday of grunge, hip hop and bubblegum pop.
In the ’90s, celebrities 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 hairstyles). From sexy strappy dresses and casual overalls to crop tops, groovy swirls and cheetah prints, you’ll find some of the decade’s most coveted styles on our list (many of which you might inspire to replicate!) . And just in case you’re browsing this roundup for inspiration for the spooky season, you’ll also want to check out our list of totally cool and fresh 90s Halloween costumes.
Actress Halle Berry wore this black dress to the ninth annual Soul Train Awards in 1995. It’s a minimalist look that’s sleek and flirty no matter what decade you’re wearing it in.
SHOP THE BLACK DRESS
From Kurt Cobain to Screech on saved by the bell, it seemed like everyone wore plaid flannel shirts in the 90s. These days, it’s easy to find flannels in clothing stores and vintage boutiques if you fancy recreating the casual, comfy style.
SEE CHECKED SHIRTS
Plaid skirts weren’t just for school uniforms! In the 90s, long plaid skirts were all the rage, as seen in Sarah Jessica Parker’s outfit, paired with a blue poncho and red heels.
SEE THE CHECKED SKIRT
Horizontal striped shirts
Neon striped shirts, like this green and yellow mix worn by The prince of Bel-Air star Will Smith, were a popular street look. They are always a fun way to add some color to your wardrobe.
SHOP THE HORIZONTAL STRIPES SHIRT
Actress Alyssa Milano wore black overalls for The Lost World: Jurassic Park premiered in 1997. It’s a casual outfit that’s still a great option to wear if you’re in a hurry, but want to keep it cute.
SHOP OVERALLS
In the 90s, you didn’t have to be a surfer to wear boardshorts. 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.
SEE BOARD SHORTS
The swirling patterns are always present, especially on flared pants similar to Brandy’s eye-catching fit at the 24th American Music Awards in 1997.
SHOP SWIRL PANTS
Colorful faux fur coats were a key part of ’90s style. They’ll keep you warm in the cold months, while giving your outfit a bold appeal – similar to Usher’s all-yellow ensemble at the Ninth Annual Billboard Music Awards.
SEE THE FAUX FUR COAT
Crop tops are still popular, and for good reason. They can elongate those with shorter torsos and show off the belly area for a touch of sass. Janet Jackson’s look at the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards is a prime example.
SHOP CROP TOPS
In the 90s, leather 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 wear this material. We’ve seen the leather trend come back in popularity this year with tops, dresses and pants.
SEE THE LEATHER DRESS
Tie-dye is back and there are so many ways to wear it! The ’90s were full of colorful tie-dye caps, oversized tees and dresses, including this color-coordinated look from Destiny’s Child.
SHOP THE TIE-DYE DRESS
Gwyneth Paltrow wore a red velvet suit to the 1996 MTV Video Music Awards. The fabric is a simple yet stylish way to upgrade your work wardrobe.
SEE THE VELVET SUIT
Pairing your bandana with your #OOTD was the pinnacle of style in the 90s, especially in the hip-hop fashion scene.
SEE BANDANAS
High-shine fabrics were a staple in the ’90s, from sequined shirts and pants to sparkly hair accessories and skirts. Take a page from Michael Jackson and use the glittery fabric to stand out on a special occasion.
SHOP THE SEQUIN SHIRT
This chic sunglasses trend works with any outfit, especially when you have a color collection to choose from.
SEE TINTED SHADES
This Versace dress worn by Naomi Campbell is a gorgeous example of the layered aesthetic. A silk dress layered under a long sweater is the perfect outfit for fall.
SEE THE SWEATER DRESS
The sheer trend dominated the 90s. Sheer materials like lace and mesh are still as striking and daring today.
SEE THE TRANSPARENT DRESS
From coats and dresses to hats and shirts, leopard print clothing was everywhere thanks to its playful and cool aesthetic.
SHOP THE LEOPARD HAT
In 1991, Whitney Houston gave a memorable performance at Super Bowl XXV in a white tracksuit.
SEE THE TRACKSUIT
Emma Bunton (aka Baby Spice from the Spice Girls) wore this pink and black lace corset in the 90s.
SEE CORSETS
Mariah Thomas
Deputy Editor
Mariah Thomas (she/her) is an associate editor at Good Housekeeping, where she covers home and lifestyle content.
