The Best Forgotten '90s Fashion Trends That Might Make a Comeback

2022-10-12 05:51:49 By : Ms. Joy XU

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'90s kids will remember these once-trendy looks we wish never died (hint: some haven't).

Let's admit it: slip dresses, bomber jackets, scrunchies, plaid shirts and leather outfits were all the rage during the '90s. Many of the biggest fashion trends of the '90s are working their way back into the mainstream — although some of the most popular fashion pieces may have never left your closet. If you're a '90s baby or a lover of how your favorite celebrities dressed during an era we can only describe as cool, we're sharing some of the best '90s fashion trends you may want to recreate. These style moments are cute, multi-faceted and will bring you back to the days of minimal staples and layered pieces (especially if you're a fan of Y2K).

From Halle Berry and Naomi Campbell to Jennifer Lopez and Nia long, these figures brought their freshest looks to red carpets and every day activities (not to mention their throwback makeup looks and '90s hairstyles). We have the iconic and sexy slip dresses some chose to wear on their own or layer during the colder months. Overalls have always been hidden in your closet for fall (even if you don't want to admit it), while swirl patterns and cheetah prints adorned their hats, pants and tops (including cropped shirts that continue to be popular). Whatever style you want to replicate, we have the moments and looks that fashionable men and women won't want to miss.

And if you're still looking for a fun and last-minute outfit to wear this spooky season, check out our handpicked list of some of the best '90s Halloween costumes that are totally fly and fresh.

Actress Halle Berry wore this black slip dress to the Ninth Annual Soul Train Awards in 1995. It's a minimalist look that's elegant and alluring — no matter what color you pick.

If you don't remember Saved by the Bell, the characters wore plaid flannel shirts in the show (similar to many others around that time). This one worn by Dustin Diamond's character "Screech," was a classic red, green and blue combo that you can find at any vintage or regular clothing shop.

Plaid skirts aren't only for school uniforms. Sarah Jessica Parker has been slaying her looks for decades, like when she wore this long plaid skirt paired with a shawl that has a casual (and incredibly cozy) aesthetic.

Let's not forget about those horizontal-striped shirts (similar to this green and yellow mix worn by The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star. Men and women can wear these to complement their casual or street-style collection. Plus, it never hurts to have a variety of colors in your wardrobe.

Actress Alyssa Milano (any Charmed fans?) wore black overalls during the Lost World Jurassic Park premiere in 1997. It's the perfect outfit to wear if you're in a rush, but still want to look incredibly cute.

You didn't need to be a surfer to wear board shorts. Actor and rapper Bobby Brown wore this black pair to match his overall dark and cool attire. If you're looking to bring these back during the warmer months, don't be afraid to find some with patterns.

Swirl patterns are still in, especially if they're flare pants. Even if you don't find yourself at a disco party or throwback event, incorporate pieces that feature this pattern, similar to Brandy's simple yet eye-catching fit at the 24th Annual American Music Awards in 1997.

While fur coats were popular during the '80s, they were also part of '90s style. They'll keep you warm during cold months, while giving your outfit an edgy appeal — similar to Usher's yellow ensemble at the Ninth Annual Billboard Music Awards.

Crop tops are still popular, and for a good reason. They elongated those with shorter torsos and showed off the midriff area for a touch of sass. Janet Jackson's fit during the 1995 MTV Video Music Awards is a prime example.

This was the time where leather dresses and skirts were in. Nia Long wore this shiny and sleek dress during the 1998 VH1 Fashion Awards, showing that leather jackets aren't the only use for this material. We've seen the leather trend creeping back into popularity this year with tops, dresses and pants.

There are so many ways to incorporate tie-dye into your outfit. The '90s was full of colorful backwards caps and oversized tees. Not to mention tie-dye dresses that you and your squad could color-coordinate to wear for an occasion.

Gwyneth Paltrow wore a velvet red suit to the 1996 MTV Video Music Awards. The fabric is an easy yet classy way to upgrade an outfit.

Matching your bandana with your clothing of the day was a look in the '90s. They were a thriving part of the hip-hop fashion scene at the time and remain one of the iconic staples.

High-shine fabric was a showstopper in the '90s, from sequin shirts and pants to glittery hair accessories and skirts. Take note from Michael Jackson and use a glittery fabric to stand out on a special occasion, or just because.

Even now, it doesn't have to be daytime to wear tinted shades. The chic-sunglass trend works for any outfit you have planned, especially when you have a collection of colors to choose from.

This Versace dress worn by Naomi Campbell is a gorgeous example of the layered aesthetic. From the long sweater dress underneath to the silk gown that brings a stylish touch on top, it's the perfect outfit for fall.

The sheer top trend (or dress trend in Jennifer Lopez's case), dominated the '90s era. See-through materials such as lace and mesh are still equally as striking and daring today.

From coats and dresses t0 hats and shirts, leopard-print attire was everywhere. If not only for its playful and cool aesthetic, the Netflix documentary, Tiger King, also inspired people to bring this pattern back to the forefront.

In 1991, Whitney Houston gave her outstanding performance at the Super Bowl XXV in a white tracksuit. They continue to be worn by those today, especially velour versions (any Juicy Couture fans?).

Emma Bunton (A.K.A Baby Spice from the Spice Girls) wore this pink and black lace corset in the '90s. Corset tops help to cinch the waist and accentuate the body.