It’s been over three decades since the ’90s began, and the ‘fashion faux pas’ of that era are making a fierce comeback.
The styles you adored back then—or admire now while bingeing on old sitcoms—are officially back, more fashionable than ever. Think: spaghetti straps, bucket hats, knee socks, and oval sunglasses. These once-dubbed fashion mistakes are now trendsetters, showing how the ’90s transformed the fashion scene and still influence us today.
Just scroll through your TikTok or Instagram, and you’ll spot your favourite celebs and influencers rocking these retro looks. Clearly, ’90s fashion trends are the epitome of cool right now.
Let’s take a look!
Although they originated in the 80’s, it was the 90’s when they morphed into fashion from practicality. Leg warmers are a versatile accessory that not only keep your legs cosy but also add a unique flair to any outfit. Initially, they were popular among athletes and ballet dancers to maintain muscle warmth in chilly conditions. However, leg warmers fell out of favour for a while until they made a triumphant return on the runways of New York and Paris Fashion Week. Since then, they’ve been back in style, quickly becoming a trendy must-have once again!
Images via Bauer-Griffin and BACKGRID
This style of pants in the 90s is almost always associated with MC Hammer’s multi-coloured elastic fit parachute pants. However, parachute pants today are not entirely the same, this trend has made a subtle comeback with hippie pants, though the modern versions are much less billowy and over-the-top compared to the parachute pants of the past.
Images via @emmaleger (Instagram) and Chloe
One of the main reasons platform sandals were considered a ‘mistake’ was because how uncomfortable they were for your ankles and heels but fashion can be painful sometimes right? Today, with brands like Naked Wolfe, Coperni and Chloe embracing platform sandals and heels, it’s only inevitable these uber cool shoes have made a comeback! (Especially for daytime wear in the summer)
Images via Magzter and Times of India
Cool in the 90’s? Still cool now. Admittedly these can be a hit or miss, you either love them or hate them. Trendsetters in the 90’s like L.L. Cool J and Run DMC rocked them while today bucket hats now come in a variety of styles, from cosy, teddy-textured ones to sophisticated versions made of silk and other luxurious fabrics. Whether you’re aiming for a laid-back vibe or a chic, elegant look, there’s a bucket hat to match.
Images via Shutterstock
Again, this one of those divisive trends of the 90’s (late 80’s) that you either loved or really just can’t understand. From Princess Diana in ‘85 and Em Rata in the 2020’s, we love this comfy cool girl look.
Images via Bobby Doherty for the New York Times and @anokyve (Instagram)
Out with the skinny, in with the baggy. As time goes by it seems people are only turning against the once loved skinny jeans. Big 90’s pants have been having a lasting moment for a while now and this is a look we’re happy is here to stay!
Images via Tony Hawk (Facebook) and FashionHumber
Looking back quite a few seem to regret their fanny pack era in the 90’s since it can be quite reminiscent of tourist dad on vacation but fanny packs come in so many different styles now that you might not have to worry about this anymore (for the men: try wearing it over your shoulder.) Today, these genius hands-free belt bags are back with a vengeance, spotted on everyone from influencers to Kendall Jenner.
Images via IanDrummondVintage and @chasemarieee (Instagram)
Sometimes basic works! In the late ’90s, Ugg boots experienced a revival, becoming a staple for both young women and men. Fast forward to today, and the mini Ugg platform had a moment become the new it shoe in fashion, selling for double its original price.
Images via Shutterstock and JB Lacroix
When did turtlenecks ever go out of style? And who said they’re a fashion faux pas? You’ll often see celebs like Robert Pattinson, Tom Holland, Jake Gyllenhaal and Drake in this sleek and classy look.
Images via ZEITGEIST and Zendaya (Facebook)
Who could forget Cher’s unforgettable yellow plaid blazer and skirt ensemble from Clueless? In recent years, numerous brands have featured similar matching patterns on the runway. As younger generations embrace the classic film, this trend keeps resurfacing. With 2024’s obsession with office wear, it’s the perfect look to experiment with this year.