While the early-2000s were defined by the tacky and outrageous (i.e., pelvis-baring jeans, chaotic layering, and candy-colored velour tracksuits), the decade prior was home to posh trends that have withstood the decades. Professional pieces, such as skirt suits, sheath dresses, boxy blazers, and tailored vests, embodied the minimalist themes that characterized this era. Even the more casual summer fashion trends later proved timeless, such as: oversized streetwear, high-rise jeans, and grungy plaid skirts.
Today, these same staples are having a renaissance of their own, some 30 years later. But when you’re attempting to channel another era, it’s easy to find yourself inadvertently playing dress-up. If done wrong, ’90s fashion can start to feel costumey—which is why it’s essential to introduce modern details that can balance out even the most nostalgic aesthetics.
Sports Jerseys
In the 1990s, jerseys were frequently worn with sagging jeans or sweatpants. Today, the sporty style has been embraced by the quirkiest among us, to be paired with plaid skirts, cargo pants, and Bermuda shorts—any number of which would make for a chic summer ’fit.
Plaid Skirts
The plaid skirt/chunky boot combo is just as popular now as it was in 1995. A relic of the punk scene, this edgy combo has withstood the test of time, bringing edgy-girl style to three generations running. Think: No Doubt-era Gwen Staffani, but for the modern day.
Bandanas
These easy hair accessories were one of the buzziest outfit add-ons of the ’90s. Every style star sported them—from Carrie Bradshaw to J.Lo and Christina Aguilera. Today’s iterations have evolved past the traditional paisley print to include picnic-core styles, like gingham and crochet.
Tailored Vest
Though the term “Meredith Blake summer” was coined several years ago, her posh and elegant aesthetic remains evergreen. As soon as the temperatures start to rise, everyone suddenly starts dressing like a high-powered California publicist slash stepmom-to-be. In fashion speak, that translates to crisp workwear in sophisticated neutral hues.
Prim Skirt Suits
This ’fit is straight out of Princess Diana’s famed wardrobe. Two-piece skirt suits—with shoulder pads and a pencil skirt—were a favorite of the late royal. Try one yourself in one of her many approved colorways, but be sure to add 'of-the-moment' accessories to give your co-ord a more current feel.
Capri Pants
The petal push shirt, which remained popular until the early 2000s, actually originated in the late '90s. This versatile look can adapt to almost any aesthetic. Pair it with a zip-up vest for a sporty vibe or a flowy shirt for a bohemian vibe.
Double Denim
Jean jackets, vests, and high-waist jeans were a cornerstone of 1990s fashion—all of which are still very much in. But if you’re hoping for a more 2025 kind of look, go for more current silhouettes, like a denim crop top and/or cargo pants.
Baggy Streetwear
After dominating the hip-hop scene, baggy streetwear eventually took over the mainstream ’90s fashion trends. Super-baggy shorts were a staple of the time period and are, likewise, having a moment in 2025. Pull influences from both decades by styling yours with a simple white tank and cowboy boots.
