Some trends are a flash in the pan, but the enduring appeal of the 90s has proven that the influence of the era will be evident in fashion for a long time to come. Read on for style tips to sport the two biggest aesthetics of the decade — minimalism and grunge — and get inspo for adding subtle pops of 90s flair into your existing wardrobe with a little help from wearwell!
Minimalism
While grunge is remembered as the defining style of the 90s, minimalism ruled the fashion world for the first half of the decade. Think of Winona Ryder’s simple slip dresses or Kate Moss’s classic jeans and tee combo as your inspiration here. To style minimalist 90s outfits, start with neutral or muted colors and then build a straight silhouette that is streamlined. Try the column-like and form-fitting cut of the Priti Cross Back Dress or a loose, body-skimming number like the Nuon Dress.
The eye should move up and down your entire look without any single item contrasting. I love ribbed knits like the Corey Rib Dress for this style to keep a simple look interesting without sacrificing fluidity!
Not into neutrals and black? Use navy blue to achieve a classic 90s look.. This hue looks effortlessly polished and can do anything black can with a little more style - perfect for adding subtle color to a refined, minimal look!
The Nicole Bodysuit is a sleek way to try on this shade, pair it with dark wash denim or a slouchy boyfriend jean for a monochromatic match.
Keep your accessories simple: delicate jewelry and accessories without embellishment round out this look! The Camila mules, Georgia Tote Bag, and Combo Chain Necklace are all perfect for this minimalistic aesthetic. '
Grunge
By the mid-90s, people started turning to musicians for sartorial inspiration - specifically, riot grrrl bands and grunge acts like Nirvana.
Shiloh Unisex Flannel, Espresso
To rock grunge-influenced styles without fully regressing to your teenage dirtbag years, I like to incorporate elements of it rather than embracing the look head to toe.
Mikey Jeans
Pair wide-leg, ripped jeans like the Mikey Jeans with a tidy top like the Casey Rib Top; wear the Shiloh Unisex Flannel with the Rhea Rib Crop Top and skinny jeans; or add loud rocker jewelry like the Hai Hoops to a modern jumpsuit!
Hai Hoops, Black Horn and Brass
Don a babydoll dress (my personal favorite grunge trend!), but in an elegantly timeless bohemian pattern - the Willow Mini Dress is perfect for this!
Add a slouchy cardigan, such as the Jasmine Cardigan and perhaps dainty jewelry over the simple ensemble. Or, truly embrace the grunge mood and rebel against minimalism like the style makers of the mid-90s by wearing it all at once! It’s your life!
Accessories
Looking to add a subtle touch of 90s style to your look? The decade had plenty of jewelry and accessory trends to try on! Daisies were the reigning floral pattern in the 90s, so slip on the Carmen Headband for a cute hair accessory in that throwback motif.
And who can forget how chokers had a decade-long moment. Wear the dainty Pearl Choker for a look that’s modern and classic all at once. Or layer the Marina Necklace with the Dana Necklace and Moxie Necklace for an ideal 90s stacked choker look.
Have A Nice Day Camp Hat, Rust
Unique, novelty motifs were en vogue and are so easy to subtly add into your accessories game. Try out the Camp Hat adorned with a surprising graphic or the dainty but funky Lightning Charm Earrings.
Lightning Charm Earrings, Gold
My favorite 90s accessory trend to bring back is asymmetrical earrings. These were all the rage and it’s so easy to try this trend. I love the XO Studs to switch up my classic studs, or the Skylar Hoop Earrings are a modern take on the popular 90s celestial motif and so easy to wear.
Interested in trying out any of the 90s aesthetics mentioned here? There's more to see in What We're Loving Now!
