Nostalgia is a wonderful feeling, but some fashion choices from the 1990s are best left in the past, like a cherished photo album we revisit only occasionally. The ’90s were a wild ride of bold styles, and frankly, some of them we’re perfectly content with staying tucked away in the fashion archives.
1. Hemp Necklaces and Chain Wallets:
These accessories were the epitome of ’90s grunge and skater culture. Hemp necklaces, with their earthy, boho vibe, paired with the edgy look of chain wallets, defined a generation of teenagers eager to look effortlessly cool. Despite their once-massive popularity, these items are now seen as relics of a bygone era.
Handmade hemp necklaces, often decorated with beads or shells, were a personal touch that resonated with ’90s youth and were versatile for everyone. However, as fashion moved on, these necklaces became a symbol of a dated, bohemian look that many are glad to see in the rearview mirror.
Chain wallets offered a blend of practicality and a rebellious edge, evolving from biker gear to a staple accessory for skaters and punk fans, often seen dangling from baggy jeans. While they did keep our belongings secure, their bulky chains are largely out of style now, with most people preferring sleeker, more minimalist options.
Product on Amazon: BlueRica Hemp Choker Necklace with Brown Wood Beads
Brand: BlueRica
Price: 9.95 USD
Rating: 4.4 Total reviews: 32
2. Teeny-Tiny Bags:
In the 90s, the smaller the bag, the better it was considered, with these tiny accessories often barely fitting a pager, let alone the essentials we juggle today. These miniature bags, heavily influenced by pop stars of the era, prioritized making a bold fashion statement over actual usefulness.
Despite their lack of practicality, tiny bags were a must-have for any fashion-forward individual in the ’90s. Often crafted in bright neon hues or adorned with sparkles, they added an eye-catching flair to any outfit. Unfortunately, the novelty faded quickly when people realized they could barely fit more than a lipstick inside.
While some designers have experimented with bringing back the micro bag trend, the general consensus is that a bag should at least accommodate a smartphone for daily life. The return of larger, more practical bags is a welcome change for many, as it perfectly balances personal style with the demands of everyday convenience.
Product on Amazon: Cute Shoulder Bag Crossbody Bag for Women Y2K Star Patchwork Denim Messenger Bag Handbag for Teen Girls
Brand: Visit the OATSBAS Store
Price: 19.99 USD
Rating: 3.9 Total reviews: 9
Top Review from US: “I bought this for my 13 year old great grand daughter for Christmas. I paired it with a small wallet of a similar style with a twenty dollar bill inside. I had it sent by Amazon to my daughter’s home since they would all be there for the holidays. I heard from my daughter the gift was a big hit. My daughter had it beautifully wrapped and tagged under herbChristmas tree. All I had to do was choose it, have it sent, and send my daughter the money online., A great way to give a thoughtful gift.”
3. Bucket Hats:
This trend was a surprising crossover: what began as fishing gear evolved into a high-fashion staple, popularized by artists like LL Cool J and becoming an icon of ’90s hip-hop culture. Though originally designed for practical sun protection, bucket hats quickly transcended their utilitarian roots to become a must-have fashion item.
The bucket hat’s appeal stemmed from its versatility and laid-back vibe—it paired effortlessly with nearly any outfit, making it a favorite among musicians and teenagers alike. Often crafted from denim or bold patterned fabrics, these hats stood out in a crowd, embodying the era’s playful spirit.
While bucket hats have made brief comebacks over the years, many still link them to a distinct ’90s aesthetic that feels out of step with today’s more refined fashion landscape. For those who lived through the decade, they remain a nostalgic nod to a time when fashion thrived on individuality and experimentation—but that doesn’t mean we need them back.
Product on Amazon: Sun Hats for Men Women Bucket Hat UPF 50+ Boonie Hat Foldable UV Protection Hiking Beach Fishing Summer Safari
Brand: Visit the ZOORON Store
Price: 6.99 USD
Rating: 4.4 Total reviews: 3543
Top Review from US: “Bought this hat to use on a Disney World trip and it was a great buy. Years ago I had purchased a similar boonie style hat, but the brim was comically oversized. This one has a decent brim around it, but not one that constantly flops around. I like that the brim is pretty forgiving however you want to shape it.”
4. Plaid Shirts:
Plaid shirts were a defining element of the grunge scene, made famous by iconic bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, and were often worn oversized and layered over band tees. They became an emblem of the ’90s alternative culture, perfectly capturing the era’s anti-establishment spirit.
Their appeal lay in their unapologetic comfort and laid-back cool, perfectly embodying the casual rebellion that defined grunge. Made from flannel or cotton, these shirts were rarely fitted; their slouchy silhouette was part of the charm, signaling a rejection of polished fashion norms.
While plaid patterns have certainly reappeared in fashion, the specific oversized, faded, and deliberately worn-in look of the ’90s remains a distinct relic of that time. Today’s plaid styles tend to be more tailored and sophisticated, aligning with a preference for cleaner aesthetics, and many feel the grunge-era plaid is best remembered as a fleeting trend.
Product on Amazon: AUTOMET Womens Fall Outfits Fashion Clothes Shackets Flannel Plaid Button Down Long Sleeve Shirts Jackets
Brand: Visit the AUTOMET Store
Price: 19.99 USD
Rating: 4.4 Total reviews: 17190
Top Review from US: “I purchased 1 then went back & ordered 3 more in different colors in a size small. These are so nice for winter or cooler weather, warm, soft, wash in cold & line dry keeps them looking nice, nice quality, have had no shrinkage not sure what would happen if put in dryer I would use low heat if I did. Great value, nice material, perfect for layering. Yes I recommend this product!”
5. Denim Overalls:
A favorite among ’90s kids and adults alike, denim overalls were worn with everything from crop tops to flannel shirts. This utilitarian piece of clothing was both comfortable and practical, making it a go-to choice for many.
Overalls were frequently styled with one strap casually undone, projecting a laid-back, carefree image that was widely adopted by celebrities and the public alike, becoming a hallmark of ’90s casual fashion. However, as fashion evolved, the all-denim look lost its widespread appeal, and overalls were mostly relegated to the realm of childhood memories.
Recent years have seen a resurgence in overall popularity, but with a modern twist. Designers have reimagined them in sleek silhouettes and softer fabrics, offering a contemporary take on this classic piece.
Product on Amazon: Dickies Men’s Bib Overall
Brand: Visit the Dickies Store
Price: 44.99 USD
Rating: 4.4 Total reviews: 48755
Top Review from US: “Love my overalls especially during the winter. They are great quality and strong material. I have them on multiple colors. They won’t fade after washing and boy I wash them multiple times a week as I used them for work. The pockets are very functional which give you the chance to carry essential tools on you and some won’t even show. They are pretty comfortable, fits well and the material is thick but not harsh on the skin. The best price is that they aren’t super expensive like others and you get good quality
6. Babydoll Dresses:
These dresses, characterized by their loose fit and empire waist, were a staple in the ’90s. Often paired with knee-high socks and combat boots, babydoll dresses were the perfect blend of girly and edgy.
The babydoll dress was loved for its comfort and ability to be dressed up or down. It was a favorite among celebrities and was often seen on the red carpet. However, its overly youthful appearance eventually led to its decline in popularity.
Interestingly, the babydoll dress has managed a successful comeback recently, with designers presenting modernized versions that resonate with current tastes. By incorporating contemporary fabrics and updated prints, this trend has successfully stayed relevant while retaining its charming nostalgic essence.
Product on Amazon: 2025 Women’s Babydoll 3/4 Puff Sleeve Plaid Mini Dress Lapel Doll Collar Loose Y2k Dress
Brand: Visit the Ynhonra Store
Price: 29.99 USD
Rating: 4 Total reviews: 17
Top Review from US: “This top is adorable and it exceeded my expectations!!!! Great with a legging or on its own. Light fabric so not too hot. Perfect 3/4 length sleeve. I get compliments every time I wear it. The collar completes the look of this garment. I will order in other colors.”
7. Velvet Everything:
Velvet was everywhere in the ’90s, from dresses to headbands. This rich fabric added a touch of luxury and was a favorite for evening wear. However, the heavy and sometimes garish use of velvet has kept many from wanting this trend to return.
The allure of velvet lay in its texture and sheen, making it a popular choice for winter fashion. It was often seen in deep jewel tones, which added to its opulent feel. Yet, as the decade progressed, the saturation of velvet in fashion led to a decline in its popularity.
While velvet does make an occasional comeback, it is now used more sparingly, allowing its luxurious qualities to shine without overwhelming the senses. Many appreciate the modern approach to velvet, which emphasizes subtlety and elegance.
Product on Amazon: R.Vivimos Women’s Fall Winter Vintage Velvet Dress Short Sleeve V Neck Elastic Waist Tiered Ruffle A-Line Flowy Maxi Dress
Price: 37.79-41.99 USD
Rating: 4.5 Total reviews: 375
Top Review from US: “I got the black, and it’s extremely nice. Comfortable, the velvet is pretty good quality, and the stitching looks solid. Looks like I could wear it to a formal dinner. Would also work as everyday dark cottage/goth wear.
8. Branded Sportswear:
The ’90s saw a massive surge in the popularity of branded sportswear, with logos prominently displayed on everything from tracksuits to baseball caps. Brands like Adidas, Nike, and Fila became synonymous with cool, casual style.
The appeal of branded sportswear was its blend of comfort and status. Wearing a logo prominently displayed on your clothing was a way to make a fashion statement and show brand loyalty. However, as fashion trends shifted towards minimalism, the allure of logo-heavy garments waned.
Today, while branded sportswear remains popular, the focus has shifted towards more understated designs. Many prefer the subtler nod to brand identity without the overt displays of the past, allowing for a more versatile and timeless wardrobe.
Product on Amazon: adidas Men’s Sportswear Basic 3-stripes Tricot Track Suit
Brand: Visit the adidas Store
Price: 48.26 USD
Rating: 4.6 Total reviews: 1927
Top Review from US: “This track suit was exactly what I had in mind. The material has good quality and the fabric is soft and smooth. It’s cut a little small so I got the next size and it fits well. Has a nice polished look. Pants are tapered nicely and the jacket has pockets. Good zipper. All around nice and classic outfit.”
9. Flared Jeans:
The return of flared jeans caught many by surprise, not least because they were once considered a fashion faux pas. These wide-legged pants were a staple of ’90s wardrobes, and their re-emergence is a testament to the cyclical nature of fashion.
Flared jeans were the go-to for anyone looking to channel a bit of ’70s bohemian flair with a ’90s twist. Often paired with platform shoes or chunky sneakers, they gave an elongated silhouette that many found appealing. However, as the ’90s faded, so did the popularity of these bell-bottomed beauties, replaced by the slim silhouette of skinny jeans.
Even though they took a brief break from the spotlight, flared jeans are making a strong return, enthusiastically adopted by fashion enthusiasts who appreciate their retro charm. With contemporary updates and more streamlined cuts, they provide a fun nod to the past while fitting effortlessly into today’s fashion landscape.
Product on Amazon: KDF High Waisted Bell Bottom Jeans for Women Flare Jeans for Women Stretch Wide Leg Jeans
Brand: Visit the KDF Store
Price: 27.9 USD
Rating: 4.3 Total reviews: 1452
Top Review from US: “Very cute jeans! They fit perfect for me. I’m 5’6 and about 155. Medium fits like a glove. They are very stretchy and comfortable. I wish the belt was a little longer but other than that they are cute! Washing them has not faded them or anything. I do not put my pants in the dryer so not sure if they shrink so I would probably dry them on low heat if you’re going to put them in the dryer. Hanging drying my jeans keeps them from shrinking. Good buy, very satisfied.”
