Popular outfits from the past typically come back into style and are considered on-trend by a new generation. But, the 90s feels like it never really disappears! So many of our outfits are influenced by the 90s in ways we probably don’t even notice, whether it’s the style of blazer, bag, or simple tee you’re drawn to wearing.
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90s Outfit Ideas
Lately, I’ve noticed how many of my own outfits are influenced by style from the 1990s too. Whether you’re wearing a matching set, a simple t-shirt, an oversized blazer, a shirt dress, or baggy pants – the 90s wore it first. The rise and fall of fashion trends is so interesting to me, but today let’s talk about how to incorporate some of these 90s fashion trends into your outfits now!
What Does A 90s Outfit Look Like
Given the 90s is a decade, there are obviously lots of different ways a 90s outfit can take shape. It all depends on which part you’re focused on. I love the part of fashion in the 90s that was influenced by minimalism, which is definitely part of where today’s love for neutrals by a lot of millennials comes from. And, it’s the part of the 90s fashion that I’m focusing on with this post! These looks are all clean and simple. There aren’t flashy logos. Button ups, slip dresses, blazers, matching sets, simple sunglasses, and plain tees were everywhere.
I also think of major fashion icons when I think of style in the 1990s. Think Princess Diana, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, and Cindy Crawford.
What Outfits Were Popular In The 90s
Jeans and a T-Shirt
Let’s start out super simple with an outfit you already have in your closet. Is there anything more 90s than a supermodel in jeans and a tee? I feel like they made this look iconic. The best part of this outfit? Those of us who aren’t models can wear it too.
I love how you can wear this outfit by itself or use it as a base outfit to style it in different ways. Add a blazer, belt, and jewelry if you want, or just wear it as is! I accessorized this look with my favorite summer bag, comfortable flats, and 90s style sunglasses. But, you could take this look to the next level of 90s by carrying a baguette bag (I love this one), which was made popular during the 90s.
Looking for more wide leg jeans outfit ideas? Check out this post.
Slip Dress Styled Different Ways
Slip dresses were a huge part of 90s minimalism! They’re so easy to find today, and there are tons of ways to style them. You can wear these dressed up with your favorite heels to a wedding, or you can wear an oversized blazer and loafers with them. In another nod to the 90s, layer a simple tee underneath your slip dress. I styled this slip dress below in two ways for day to night casual looks. These shoes are also both very 90s!
90s Accessories With A Simple Dress
In addition to the slip dress, a simple mini dress or shirtdress is also on trend for the 90s. Just think about Meredith Blake’s style from The Parent Trap, which all millennials know but it has definitely regained popularity recently. If you wear this style dress with smaller, oval shape sunglasses like I’m wearing here, your outfit will look even more like it came from the 90s. This style of sunglasses is everywhere right now, and you don’t have to make an investment to find a cute pair. The first pair I’m wearing is under $100, and the second pair is only $40.
Square Frame 90s Sunglasses
I tried this pair of sunglasses on in Mango. If you’re more into square or rectangle shape sunglasses, this is the perfect pair to bring a 90s vibe to your outfit. Plus, like I said above, they’re $40. In general, Mango has some great options for sunglasses and bags that feel 90s inspired.
Oversize Blazer and Slip Dress
Oversized blazers were another major 90s icon. You’ll be surprised how often you wear one, I think. My favorite blazer outfits are anything Princess Diana wore with a blazer. Going back to The Parent Trip, Meredith Blake was also a fan of oversized blazers. I love how you can style these over a slip dress for the ultimate 90s look. Plus, this outfit is as versatile as they get. You can wear this look to work, on a date, on a city vacation, or just to brunch with your friends on the weekend.
Oversize Blazers With Jeans
Oversize blazers with jeans and a button up or a simple t-shirt is another way to dress like it’s the 1990s. The outfit I’m wearing below is old, but I’m currently eyeing this blazer in navy that just came out for the fall. I tried it in store, and it’s a perfect oversize fit. The best part might be that J.Crew made the sleeves the perfect length!
Wide Leg Pants
Okay, I said I wasn’t totally influenced by 90s grunge, but I think wide leg and baggy, loose pants are definitely a nod to grunge, as well as hip hop’s influence on fashion during the decade — both of which were major! My outfit is an example how you don’t have to make your entire outfit fit into a trend. But, my wide leg, loose fit pants and the baby tee are definitely inspired by the 90s.
Baby Tee And Wide Leg Jeans
I’m wearing the same, simple tee as above but with wide leg jeans. I don’t think my belt, sunglasses, or bag necessarily reflect the 90s, but the rest of my look feels minimalistic and denim in general was a major part of the 90s.
Button Up With Jeans
This outfit feels effortless and like it’s based in minimalism, so I had to include it here. Plus, button ups are definitely a 90s icon. Monica wore them all the time on Friends and so Princess Diana wore them (need I say more).
Looking for more green outfits? Check out my blog post on green outfit ideas!
Tube Top With Wide Leg Pants Or a Slip Skirt
A tube top was a major part of the 90s! I remember Carrie Bradshaw wore them on Sex and the City. Anyway, there are so many takes on the tube top that you can style them in tons of different ways. For a true 90s look, wear them with wide leg pants or with a slip skirt that hits around your knees.
How To Style 90s Outfits
Lean On Accessories
If you don’t think a full 90s outfits is your thing but still like some of the 90s inspired looks, then lean into accessories! I always love to use accessories as a way to incorporate trends into my outfit. You don’t have to make a big commitment to adding something to your wardrobe you’re unsure of, and you can definitely find affordable accessories that give a 90s vibe. Think oval sunglasses that aren’t too big and a modern take on chokers. I love necklaces that aren’t actually chokers, but they are a 13 to 15 inch drape so they aren’t too long. It still gives a 90s feel without being an actual choker.
Pick One 90s Trend You Love
Not every 90s trend is for everyone. I love the focus on minimalism, but grunge isn’t something I find too much of in my wardrobe now. So, if you know you love a certain type of 90s trend, stick to that one. Whether it’s a couple of simple tees you can wear with jeans, a slip dress you wear in several different ways, or a bag that resembles the 90s, you don’t have to go overboard!
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