Fashion is often a cycle, and a cycle that often looks back at trends from the ‘90s. In the 2010s, that looked like flannel shirts and chokers, now it appears subtly in the many ‘cores’ and aesthetic circles of TikTok.
But why are we so fascinated by this particular decade in history? One answer to this question could be that Gen Z, who are leading the fashion movement of today, are looking back on the media they grew up with. And those were shows and movies that were popular throughout the 90s that trickled into the early 2000s. F.R.I.E.N.D.S, Pretty Woman, Clueless, The Nanny, and Sex and the City have undoubtedly influenced the fashion zeitgeist and have stuck with the current fashion pioneers of today. But now, they’re sleeker, polished, and elevated with the right amount of edge.
Here’s our roundup of ’90s trends that are back in fashion lookbooks.
Minimalism
Minimalism was huge back in the ‘90s, and now the trend has come back in the form of elevated basics. Influencers like Matilda Djerf and their simple Scandinavian style also brought attention to the trend, revamping it and giving it a more modern feel.
East West Shoulder Bags
The elongated style paired perfectly with the minimalist look of the ‘90s. Now, it is back with an exaggerated silhouette that serves as a conversation starter while also being practical.
Slip Dresses
SKIMS | Soft Lounge Long Slip Dress | Dhs 390
Back in the ‘90s, it was Carrie Bradshaw in a Dolce&Gabbana metallic slip dress waiting for Mr Big. Now, it’s a SKIMS Soft Lounge Slip Dress with sneakers and a chunky knit.
Animal Print
Last year, leopard print was dominating the fashion scene. Now, it has transitioned to snake print. Although the animal changes, the fascination with animal print remains the same. If you went back to 1995, you would find this same fascination with cheetah print.
Polka Dots
Princess Diana revived the polka dot print in the ‘80s, and Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman cemented the trend in the ‘90s. Now, the print is back (it has been since late 2024), and you can spot it on just about any piece of clothing, whether that be shoes, skirts, or scarves.
Oversized Jackets
A baggier form of the ‘80s padded suit jacket, we’re sure to spot more oversized blazers and jackets once the weather gets colder.
Tracksuits
From Sporty Spice on stage to a Lululemon set on a grocery run. As a society, we have pivoted to cosy fashion like athletic wear, preferring gym sets over the usual jeans-and-tee. This could be because of our overall shift to wellness culture or the aftereffects of lockdown culture, where comfort was prioritised above all.
Baggy Denim
Baggy denim is not a new trend. Since 2020, jean cuts have been becoming wider and baggier. From boyfriend jeans, to wide-legged jeans, to the even looser barrel-leg jeans, this relaxed style of denim isn’t going anywhere soon.
Preppy Prints
Preppy prints are having a major 90s comeback, trading grunge for crisp, campus-cool edge. Think Clueless-era checks, gingham, plaid tailoring, and houndstooth coats reimagined for now.
