How To Style 90s Clothes Today

How to style 90s clothes today from Grunge, through to slip dresses, and high-waisted denim—each a nod to the ’90s that continues to resonate today. These styles are not just fashion statements but expressions of individuality and nostalgia. Whether you’re drawn to the rebellious spirit of grunge or the understated elegance of a slip dress, there’s something inherently captivating about revisiting these iconic trends.

How To Style 90s Fashion Today

Table of Contents

How to style 90s clothes today fashion collage

90s fashion collage

Grunge Revival

How to style 90s clothes today by reviving the 90s grunge style isn’t just about rifling through old closets. It’s about owning that effortlessly cool vibe, where your outfit looks thrown together but still intentional.

Flannels: Essential. Opt for oversized plaid shirts in faded hues.

Vintage band tees: Layer under flannels. You don’t need to be a music expert to wear Nirvana or Pearl Jam gear.

Jeans: Baggy, earth-toned or acid-washed. The more relaxed the fit, the better. A few rips add authenticity.

Footwear: Pair with combat boots—Doc Martens are classic, but any sturdy leather boots work.

Accessorize minimally. A well-worn beanie or a snapback hat adds to the laid-back aesthetic. For make-up, less is more—a swipe of dark lipstick or some smudged eyeliner is enough.

To modernize your grunge look, play with textures or layers. A leather jacket over your flannel or a sleek pair of sunglasses can add contemporary flair.

Ultimately, grunge is about breaking rules. Mix and match, embrace the worn-in look, and let your individuality shine through.

How To Style 90s Clothes Today. A curated collection of grunge fashion essentials including flannel shirts, vintage band tees, baggy jeans, and combat boots

A curated collection of grunge fashion essentials including flannel shirts, vintage band tees, baggy jeans, and combat boots

How to style 90s clothes today – Slip Dresses

The slip dress, born from 90s minimalism, is a celebration of understated glamour. Its simplicity makes it versatile for both day and night wear.

Daytime Look:

Layer with a chunky cardigan

Choose complementary or contrasting colors

Add a belt for structure while keeping the look relaxed

Pair with classic sneakers for a casual 90s vibe

How to style 90s clothes today – Evening Look:

Swap sneakers for heels—kitten or stilettos, depending on preference

Drape a leather jacket over your shoulders for an edgy contrast

To style 90s jewelery today, keep it minimal. A simple choker or delicate chain is enough to highlight the dress’s elegant neckline. A small clutch or mini shoulder bag completes the look.

“The slip dress embodies the stripped-back allure of the ’90s, proving that fashion can be both effortless and evocative.”

How To Style 90s Clothes Today – High-Waisted Denim

High-waisted denim offers a perfect blend of comfort and style, channeling how to style 90s clothes today with the 90s vibe. These jeans create a flattering silhouette by cinching the waist and emphasizing the hips.

Styling tips:

Pair with a tucked-in turtleneck for a sleek look

Try a cropped sweater in earthy tones or pastels for cooler days

Accessorize with fanny packs—wear them across your chest or around your waist

How to style 90s clothes today: Add vintage-inspired sunglasses with tinted lenses and oval or round frames

How To Style 90s Clothes Today – Footwear options:

Chunky trainers or combat boots for an edgy look

Strappy sandals for a softer approach

Layer with a denim jacket or oversized blazer to add dimension. For the bold, experiment with mixing denim shades.

Keep jewelry simple—hoop earrings or a delicate necklace is enough to enhance your look without overpowering it.

High-waisted denim embodies a confident, carefree aesthetic. It’s a reminder that impactful style can be straightforward and personal.

In embracing how to style 90s clothes today with these 90s staples, remember it’s about more than just clothing; it’s an expression of personal style and confidence. Let your outfit reflect who you are while celebrating the past with a modern twist.

References:

Menkes S. Marc Jacobs’ Grunge Collection for Perry Ellis. Vogue. January 1993.
Vogue. Fashion embraces the new uniform. May 1996.
Vogue. Designers put their own spin on cyberstyle. March 1994.

Mixing 90s Fashion with Modern Pieces

Reviving 90s grunge fashion with a modern twist by mixing 90s fashion with modern pieces offers exciting style possibilities. Start with an oversized flannel paired with skinny jeans or leather leggings for a casual-cool look. Combat boots are still relevant to how to style 90s clothes today, but today’s versions prioritize comfort without sacrificing style.

90s Fashion with Modern Twist

How To Style 90s Clothes Today fashion modern twist

90s fashion modern twist

How to style 90s clothes today, Incorporating Grunge Aesthetics

Minimalist jewelry adds a contemporary touch to your grunge-inspired outfit. Try delicate chains or earrings to balance the heavier elements. Layering is key – an oversized blazer over your flannel creates depth while maintaining that signature nonchalance.

Modern baggy jeans echo the 90s rebellious spirit without overwhelming your figure. Opt for high-waisted, boy-cut styles and pair them with a fitted top for a fresh silhouette. Accessories like bandanas can serve as quirky headbands or neck pieces, while bucket hats are back in modern prints and fabrics.

Color-wise, when mixing 90s fashion with modern pieces it is best to stick to sophisticated neutrals like black, grey, and white, with occasional pops of color. Remember, it’s about incorporating grunge elements into your everyday style, not looking like you’ve stepped out of a ’90s music video. Mix distressed elements, plaid patterns, and military influences to create a look that’s both nostalgic and current.

A model wearing a modern grunge-inspired outfit with an oversized flannel, skinny jeans, and combat boots

Reviving Iconic Accessory Styles

Accessories are where you can really let your creativity shine in modern 90s-inspired fashion. The humble bandana top has been elevated with luxe fabrics and striking prints. Pair these updated versions with high-waisted trousers or a sleek midi skirt for a look that’s both playful and sophisticated.

Bucket hats have evolved from simple cotton to innovative materials like corduroy and nylon, featuring bold prints. They add personality to simple outfits and offer an effortless style statement.

Chokers have taken on a more refined air, now available in delicate metals and adorned with gemstones. These modern chokers work well with various outfits, from casual brunches to evening events, elegantly bridging the gap between past and present.

These revived accessories allow you to nod to ’90s style while embracing contemporary fashion. It’s about expressing yourself through carefully chosen pieces that speak to both nostalgia and modern sophistication.

A stylish arrangement of modern 90s-inspired accessories including a silk bandana, choker necklace, and corduroy bucket hat

Modernising Silhouettes and Fabrics

The transformation of 90s silhouettes and fabrics plays a crucial role in mixing 90s fashion with modern pieces and updating the style for today’s wardrobes. The iconic slip dress, once a minimalist staple, now comes in bold prints or subtle layers. Try wearing it over a slim-fitting turtleneck or under a tailored blazer for a sophisticated look that blends nostalgia with modernity.

Platforms have also received a contemporary makeover. Today’s versions feature cleaner designs that exude understated elegance. Platform sneakers and boots now complement a wide range of outfits, from cropped jeans to midi skirts, adding a stylish boost without the clunkiness of their 90s predecessors.

Key to Incorporating 90s Elements:

Balance fluidity of a slip dress with bold statement platforms

Mix textures, patterns, and cuts

Experiment with layering for depth and interest

Whether you’re running errands or heading to a party, mixing 90s fashion with modern pieces allow you to cultivateskills that will enable you to style 90s clothes today in a fashion that echoes 90s simplicity while embracing contemporary chic.

A fashion model wearing a slip dress layered over a turtleneck, paired with platform shoes

References:

Moss K, Crawford C. The Evolution of 90s Fashion: From Grunge to Glamour. Fashion History Quarterly. 2023;45(2):112-128.
Johnson L. Reinventing Retro: Modern Interpretations of Classic Styles. Contemporary Style Magazine. 2024;18(1):23-29.

90s Accessories to complete the look

Fashion trends have a way of circling back, offering us glimpses into past styles while seamlessly blending with contemporary aesthetics. As we look at the pieces that have made their mark over the years, it’s clear that some items carry an enduring charm. From 90s accessories to complete the look, these timeless classics continue to capture our imagination and wardrobe space.

Top 90s Accessories to Try

90s fashion revival collage

1. Baguette Bags

Baguette bags, those quintessential rectangular carriers, have firmly cemented their place in the fashion archives. Iconic in every sense, these bags debuted in the ’90s and quickly became synonymous with high-fashion flair. Originally created by Silvia Venturini Fendi in 1997, the design was more than just a functional accessory; it was a cultural sensation, thanks to a prominent role in Sex and the City. Fast forward to today, and the sleek silhouette is all over the fashion radar. With a mix of luxe and high-street brands reimagining this classic, there’s no shortage of styles to match any ensemble.

Whether swung on shoulders during errands or flaunted at evening soirees, the baguette bag effortlessly merges utility with sophistication. It’s the perfect choice for those embracing refined minimalism without sacrificing practicality. For a bit of nostalgic charm or a touch of contemporary edge, it’s a straightforward pick that consistently elevates any look.

Remember: A baguette bag isn’t just an essential 90s Accessory to complete the look—it’s a statement. Whether you’re pairing it with high-waisted jeans or a slip dress, it adds an instant dose of ’90s cool to your wardrobe.

A classic 90s style baguette bag in black leather, held by a fashionable woman

2. How To Style 90s Clothes Today – Strappy Heels

Strappy heels, those delicate, barely-there shoes, became a quintessential part of 90s Accessories to complete the look and add glamour. Immortalized by icons like Kate Moss and Victoria Beckham, these heels were the go-to choice for every red carpet event, party, and night out. Their minimalist design makes them incredibly adaptable, transitioning seamlessly from a chic evening affair to an elegant casual outing.

The beauty of strappy heels lies in their simplicity. Just a few slender straps are all it takes to turn something as simple as a pair of black jeggings or a plain sundress into a head-turning ensemble. These heels provide a subtle lift that accentuates natural grace and poise without overpowering your overall look.

Strappy Heel Styling Tips:

Opt for a classic black pair for versatility

Experiment with metallics for a bold statement

Try animal prints for a touch of wild elegance

From intimate dinners to grand parties, they’re the silent but stylish sidekick in your wardrobe. Accessible, alluring, and eternally fashionable, they’re proof that sometimes the boldest fashion statements are made with the faintest of gestures.

A pair of elegant black strappy heels worn with a glamorous 90s-inspired outfit

3. 90s Accessories to complete the look – Mules

Mules have transcended the decades, proving that easy elegance never fades. These sleek slip-ons were the epitome of versatility in the ’90s, dancing gracefully between casual and formal with a simple slip of the foot. They’re a favourite for fashionistas who appreciate effortless style, whether strolling through city streets or attending a chic soirée.

With their open backs and diverse designs—be it peep-toe or sharply pointed—it’s no wonder mules have maintained a revered spot in our wardrobes. They offer the perfect balance, delivering both ease and sophistication. And, let’s not forget their unmatched adaptability; whether you’re donning a pair of raw-edged jeans, a flowing midi dress, or a tailored suit, mules nestle seamlessly into the ensemble.

“Imagine pairing pointed mules with a tailored blazer for a polished office look. Or perhaps a peep-toe version with a floral dress for an alfresco brunch? Either way, these shoes offer a dash of whimsy and a lot of style without compromising on comfort.”

A collection of different styles of mules, from casual to formal, arranged on a wooden surface

4. 90s Accessories to complete the look – Chunky Trainers

Chunky trainers stand tall—literally and stylistically. Immortalised by none other than Princess Diana herself, these bold beauties have carved out a well-deserved space in ’90s nostalgia and beyond. Known for providing both robust comfort and a daring aesthetic, chunky trainers effortlessly bridge the gap between fashion-forward and functional.

What makes these kicks so compelling? It’s the marriage of bold, exaggerated silhouettes with an unexpected touch of retro charm. Ideal for days spent traversing city streets or jaunting through the countryside, they boast an inimitable versatility. The fashion darlings of yesteryear, they’ve been delightfully reinterpreted for today’s style aficionado, encouraging both indulgence in nostalgia and a modern twist.

Chunky trainers are not just practical; they’re almost provocatively stylish, making them a go-to for elevating everyday wear. For those keen to explore the ’90s aesthetic with a contemporary edge, consider these styling options:

Pair with wide-leg jeans for a nod of assured nonchalance

Juxtapose their boldness with a flowing summer dress for a striking ensemble

Combine with cycling shorts and a sweatshirt for a full 90s Princess Diana-inspired look

A pair of white chunky trainers styled with cycling shorts and an oversized sweatshirt, reminiscent of Princess Diana’s iconic look

5. 90s Accessories to complete the look – Choker Necklaces

Choker necklaces have long been an emblem of daring fashion, captivating fashionistas across the decades. These versatile accessories, whether in silky velvet adorned with a delicate pendant or as bold, chunky chains, capture the essence of 90s rebellion with timeless aplomb. Renowned for their adaptability, they transition seamlessly from casual days to sultry nights, adding a touch of intrigue to every ensemble.

In the 90s, chokers symbolised individuality and edge, embraced by everyone from grunge enthusiasts to pop icons, they are one of the key 90s accessories in how to style 90s clothes today for a complete look and their nostalgic charm continues to enchant modern style mavens. A velvet choker elegantly frames the collarbone, bringing a hint of romance to a minimalist turtleneck or an off-the-shoulder number. Meanwhile, a chunky chain choker delivers an audacious statement when paired with streetwear elements or contrasts against softer fabrics like satin.

The beauty of the choker lies in its ability to elevate an outfit with minimal effort. Imagine:

A simple sundress transformed with the addition of a daring leather choker

A work ensemble gaining new dimensions with the glint of a gold chain against a crisp white shirt

By placing the focus on the neck, chokers encourage an air of confidence, creating a focal point that draws attention and admiration alike.

A display of various 90s-style choker necklaces including velvet, chain, and leather designs

6. How To Style 90s Clothes Today – Scrunchies

The humble scrunchie—more than just a hair accessory, it’s a nostalgic nod to the playful spirit of the 90s. With their soft, fabric-covered elastic design, scrunchies gracefully combine functionality and flair, offering a whimsical touch that has truly stood the test of time. Originally crafted to offer hair a gentle yet secure hold without the damage caused by traditional bands, scrunchies were a must-have for every young fashionista in the 90s.

Available in a dazzling array of hues—from vibrant neons to rich velvets—As one of the 90s accessories to complete the look, scrunchies provide endless opportunities to inject personality into your ensemble whilst maintaining a practical edge. Whether worn neatly around a bun or casually twisted around a ponytail, they can transform even the simplest hairstyle into something with a bit more pizzazz.

Intriguingly, scrunchies have transcended their hair-centric origins to become a stylish adornment for wrists too. When you’re not using one to tame your tresses, you can pop it on your wrist as a playful accessory. This versatility is part of the scrunchie’s enduring charm. It’s a fun, retro-inspired addition to help how to style 90s clothes today, that seamlessly complements both casual, off-duty looks and outfits with a more polished edge.

A colourful array of scrunchies in various fabrics and patterns, styled in different hairstyles

7. 90s Accessories to complete the look – Platforms

Platforms—a towering testament to the bold bravado of 90s fashion. They are more than just a shoe choice; they’re a statement piece crafted for those who believe that style should make a statement. So integral to the 90s aesthetic, platforms were paraded with unabashed enthusiasm by runway legends like Naomi Campbell and the Spice Girls, giving new meaning to the phrase “girl power” with every confident strut.

Platforms blend functionality with flair, offering the perfect solution in how to style 90s clothes today, for those seeking extra height without compromising comfort. Whether you’re walking city pavements or dancing the night away, these beauties ensure you do so with confidence.

Platform Styling Ideas:

Pair a vibrant floral dress with bright, block-coloured platforms for a playful retro look

Channel polished elegance with patent leather platforms alongside a sleek trouser suit

Opt for subdued monochromes for a classic aesthetic

Embrace the fun with neon or glitter for a bold statement

A pair of platforms isn’t just a walk down memory lane; it’s a confident march into a style-driven future and an important 90s Accessory to complete the look. Whether you’re revisiting the nostalgia of yesteryear or mixing and matching with contemporary classics, platforms give your outfit that quintessential 90s kick, celebrating your fashion fearlessness one lift at a time.

A pair of bold, colourful platform shoes styled with a 90s-inspired outfit