Let’s not sugarcoat things: 2020 has been a year. More specifically, it’s been a “hit reset and hide under the covers until our universe tilts back to normal” kind of year. In other words, it’s one we definitely want/need a redo on. But, unlike the fashion world, we only get one crack at 2020. So, why not live through all of the chaos with the carefree, vibrant charisma of a 1990s fashionista? Check out our list of the eight ’90s fashion trends making a comeback this season and make the most out of this bittersweet symphony kind of a year.
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1. Graphic Tees
Fortunately for us, a big part of ’90s fashion was all about living life comfortably (tracksuits–need we say more?). That’s exactly why a sassy graphic tee is a must-have in your wardrobe rotation for this year’s semi-charmed kind of life. And don’t even think about limiting your fashion potential to a simple jeans and t-shirt look. Pair your favorite graphic tee with a flirty skirt and stylish booties for a rocking look everyone will envy.
2. Flannel Shirts
Nothing smells like ’90s teen spirit quite like that Nirvana-inspired grunge apparel. Have fun reliving your youth by slipping on a long flannel shirt over a stylish spaghetti strapped cami or slip dress. Give your flannel of yon a modern twist by layering it underneath a chunky sweater dress. As for footwear? We’d suggest a pair of sexy knee-high leather boots to complement this youthful look.
3. Baggy Jeans
When it comes to comfy pants, no decade had it better than the ’90s. Think about it. Cargo pants, bike shorts and–who could forget–parachute pants (nope, can’t touch that). As much as we’d all love to see parachute pants get another turn around the sun (psyche!), baggy jeans have definitely been making a comeback as of late. But, you know, like less Kris Kross and more Bella Hadid. Consider giving your skinny denim a breather this season and slip into something a little more comfortable. Pair them with sexy high heels and a sassy crop top or cardigan and you’ll be practically runway ready in no time.
4. Tie-dye Outfits
Love it or hate it, one thing you can’t say about ’90s fashion is that it was bland. Color was everywhere in the ’90s by way of neon, pastels and, of course, tie-dye. And, if there’s anything we all could use more of in our lives this year, it’d be a little bit of joyful color. Let your vibrant personality shine this season with a shabby chic tie-dye outfit highlighting your true beauty. Pair an oversized tie-dye sweatshirt with some sleek, black leggings and heels. Or lounge Barbie girl style in a fun and flowy tie-dye dress. Hey, just because you’re stuck at home doesn’t mean you can’t look cute, right?
5. Fanny Packs
Sure, once upon a time somewhere in the early 2000s, this super functional accessory went from fun and fashionable to tacky. Fast. But, the quintessential hands-free-belt-pack has come a long way since neon and the Walkman. Yup, the fanny pack has managed to creep back into the good graces of celebrities and influencers everywhere with a more modern styling and a slimmer fit. Perfect for all of those ever-thinning smartphones we just can’t live without, amiright?
6. Plaid & Prints
If the movie Clueless taught us anything, it’s that plaid on plaid could (nay, should) totally be a look to aspire to. Whether you just wannabe a fashion goddess like Cher or you’re more of a trend-setting newbie like Tai, playing with print this season is a definite must-do. Even incorporating just a little bit of print into your everyday look can go a long way, like adding a sexy pair of leopard print heels to an otherwise all-black ensemble.
7. Embellished Denim
From jeans to jackets, puffy paint to bedazzled, cut-offs to pegged, the 1990s was a magical era when there were about a million different ways to express yourself through denim. And while it was totally easy to just wear your jeans torn, something about adding a little bling brought the fashion scene to a whole new level. And while distressed jeans have been back with a vengeance within the last couple of years, embellished denim is having its own resurgence as well. Add a little shimmer to your wardrobe by wearing jeans with subtle sparkle. Or express yourself with an embossed jean jacket layered over a favorite floor-sweeping maxi.
8. Mini Backpacks
Want to be free enough to hold on to whatever life throws at you while, at the same time, still being able to carry all of your stuff? Yeah, these are the dilemmas we face in life as women. Have no fear, the mini backpack is here–again. A super cute and trendy way to carry your essentials, the mini backpack is a great addition to any outfit this fall. Plus, you were kind of done with lugging everything around with you in that oversized tote anyway, right? Minimalism, here we come!
Whether you’re looking to mix things up this season or simply just want to have more fun with your clothing, incorporating some of these ’90s-inspired pieces into your daily wardrobe rotation will surely bring your heart joy. And who couldn’t use a little bit more of that? So, what are you waiting for?