20 Forgotten ’90s Fashion Trends Poised to Make a Comeback

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 decade you’re wearing it in.

SHOP BLACK SLIP DRESS

From Kurt Cobain to Screech on Saved by the Bell, it seemed like everyone was wearing plaid flannel shirts in the ’90s. These days, it’s easy to find flannels at clothing stores and vintage shops if you’re itching to recreate the casual, cozy style.

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Plaid skirts weren’t just for school uniforms! Back in the ’90s, long plaid skirts were all rage, as evidenced by Sarah Jessica Parker’s outfit, paired with a blue poncho and red heels.

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Neon-colored striped shirts, like this green and yellow mix worn by The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air star Will Smith, were a popular street style look. They’re still a fun way to add some color to your wardrobe.

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Actress Alyssa Milano wore black overalls to The Lost World: Jurassic Park premiere in 1997. It’s a casual outfit that’s still a great option to wear if you’re in a rush, but want to keep it cute.

SHOP OVERALLS

In the ’90s, you didn’t need to be a surfer to wear board shorts. Case in point: Actor and rapper Bobby Brown wore this black pair as a casual going-out look. If you’re looking to bring this trend back, consider options with colorful patterns.

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Swirl patterns are still in, especially on flare pants similar to Brandy’s eye-catching ‘fit at the 24th Annual American Music Awards in 1997.

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Colorful faux fur coats were a key component of ’90s style. They’ll keep you warm during cold months, while giving your outfit some edgy appeal — similar to Usher’s all-yellow ensemble at the Ninth Annual Billboard Music Awards.

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

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In the ’90s, pleather dresses and skirts were all the rage. Nia Long wore this shiny and sleek dress to the 1998 VH1 Fashion Awards, showing that jackets aren’t the only way to sport this material. We’ve seen the pleather trend creeping back into popularity this year with tops, dresses and pants.

SHOP LEATHER DRESS

Tie-dye is back and there are so many ways to wear it! The ’90s was full of colorful tie-dye caps, oversized tees and dresses, including this color-coordinated look from Destiny’s Child.

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

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Matching your bandana with your #OOTD was the height of style in the ’90s, especially on the hip-hop fashion scene.

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

SHOP SEQUIN SHIRT

This chic sunglass trend works for any outfit, especially when you have a collection of colors to choose from.

SHOP TINTED SHADES

This Versace dress worn by Naomi Campbell is a gorgeous example of the layered aesthetic. A silk gown layered under a long sweater is the perfect outfit for fall.

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The sheer trend dominated the ’90s. See-through materials like lace and mesh are still equally as striking and daring today.

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From coats and dresses t0 hats and shirts, leopard-print attire was everywhere thanks to its playful and cool aesthetic.

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In 1991, Whitney Houston gave a memorable performance at Super Bowl XXV in a white tracksuit.

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Emma Bunton (a.k.a. Baby Spice from the Spice Girls) wore this pink-and-black lace corset in the ’90s.

SHOP CORSETS