Our Favourite 90s Fashion Trends

The 1990s was a decade of contrasting fashion trends that ranged from grunge to glamorous, reflecting the diverse cultural influences and rapidly evolving technology of the era. From iconic pop culture moments to emerging subcultures, the '90s left an indelible mark on the world of fashion. Here's five of our favourites...

1. Grunge Fashion:

Grunge fashion emerged as a rebellious response to the polished and glamorous looks of the previous decade. Made popular by bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, grunge style was characterised by its casual, anti-fashion attitude. Flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and oversized sweaters became staples of grunge fashion, reflecting a "just rolled out of bed" aesthetic. The trend also popularized combat boots, beanies, and unkempt hairstyles, encapsulating the nonchalant and alternative spirit of the '90s youth.

2. The Rise of Hip-Hop Fashion:

The '90s witnessed the explosive rise of hip-hop music, and its influence on fashion was profound. Hip-hop fashion was all about bold and flashy looks, featuring oversized clothing, baggy jeans, and graphic print t-shirts. Iconic brands like FUBU, Tommy Hilfiger, and Karl Kani became synonymous with hip-hop culture. Athleisure wear, with its emphasis on comfort and style, also gained popularity during this decade, with tracksuits and basketball sneakers becoming everyday fashion staples.

3. Minimalism and The Grunge Revival:

Contrary to the bold and vibrant fashion trends of the '80s, the '90s also saw the emergence of minimalism. Clean lines, simple silhouettes, and a muted colour palette defined this sophisticated trend. The minimalist aesthetic influenced everything from clothing to interior design and architecture. As the revival of grunge emerged in the late '90s, this minimalist style was often mixed with grunge elements, creating a unique blend of high fashion and casual comfort.

4. Pop Culture Influences:

The '90s was a decade of significant pop culture moments, and they had a profound impact on fashion. Iconic television shows like "Friends" and "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" influenced the wardrobes of many, showcasing a mix of laid-back, preppy, and streetwear styles. The "Rachel" haircut, made famous by Jennifer Aniston's character in "Friends," became a sought-after hairstyle for women worldwide. Additionally, movie and music stars like Madonna, Britney Spears, and the Spice Girls set trends with their distinctive fashion choices, including crop tops, platform shoes, and body-hugging dresses.

5. The Grunge and Glamour Mashup:

As the '90s progressed, a fascinating mashup of grunge and glamour emerged, blending the rebellious spirit of grunge with elements of glitz and glamour. Slip dresses, made popular by fashion icons like Kate Moss, epitomized this trend. These delicate, silk dresses were often paired with leather jackets or chunky boots, adding a touch of edginess to an otherwise elegant look. The grunge and glamour mashup perfectly encapsulated the '90s ethos of blending contrasting styles to create something new and exciting.