Fashion trends of the 90s and why we are still obsessed

It appears no matter where you look, across fashion, music, film, and design, there seems to be an eternal longing for the 1990s. Who can really blame those trying to revive the era of slip dresses and young Johnny Depp?

The early 90s marked the last breath of a world not yet dominated by Big Tech, a point in time when people were forced to get a little more creative with how to contact their family and friends from a distance. The 90s were also a time when some of the world’s most influential artists were at their peak. Whilst hip-hop was revitalised by artists like Snoop Dogg and Tupac, bands like Nirvana and Alice In Chains popularised grunge music and acted as an outlet for the youth of the decade.

The fashion trends of the 90s also left an imperishable mark on fashion culture. The 90s gave rise to minimalistic glam – as depicted by Kate Moss at the Council of Fashion Designers (CFDA) awards in 1995. Whilst also bringing forth a more toned-down version of ’80s fashion. Biker shorts, and baggy graphic tees, paired with New Balance 452 trainers, were the go-to weekend attire. Hair was either worn in a hair-do involving scrunchies or left as voluminous manes.

*Source: Pexels, photo by Cottonbro Studio*

Given its playfulness and how designers managed to push the envelope during this time, 90s fashion has experienced a massive resurgence in recent years. On TikTok alone, the ‘90s fashion’ hashtag holds close to 700 million views, and the platform is plagued with cardigans, spaghetti straps, and high-waisted jeans. Instagram has also become a platform for showcasing ’90s-inspired looks. Celebrities like Lily-Rose Depp and Bella Hadid, amongst many others, can be seen regularly sporting staples from the ’90s on their Instagram pages.

Social media isn’t the only way people are bringing back 90s fashion. Movie and television producers also utilise the public obsession with 90s fashion trends. HBO’s Euphoria is an example of a show which pays homage to the fashion trends of the 90s. Euphoria’s characters can be seen sporting sheer fabrics and velvet pieces. Tiny bags, slip dresses, and headbands also make a regular appearance on the show.

The 90s, even out with fashion, was a colourful era which introduced unforgettable pieces and styles to women’s fashion. Formal attire was elegant and flattering, whilst street fashion was simple, and the popularity of layering made every outfit interesting.

As time has progressed, not as many staples in fashion have been introduced as it gets more challenging to push the envelope and bring something new to the table. That, paired with the authenticity of the 90s, given the lack of technology, and the iconic celebrities that reached their peak during this time, may explain why the 90s is a decade so many people wish to return to.