From baggy jeans to tube tops and chunky sandals, we can't get enough '90s fashion as of late. These throwback trends are nostalgic yet they feel decidedly fresh for 2020, including tops, dresses, sandals, sneakers, hats, and scrunchies. Even better is that there's a '90s item for a range of aesthetics, whether your taste skews minimalist, eclectic, or sporty, and a lot of them look great in combination. Need further proof? OK!
For a laid-back summer look, how chill does a simple tube top look with a baggy pair of jeans? For a minimalist outfit with feminine flair, you can't go wrong with a slip dress and strappy sandals — bonus points if you add a scrunchie into the mix. If you're here for a chic reveal of skin, we love the look of a crop top and denim midi skirt with a pair of platforms. If you want to take things a step further, finish the look with a bucket hat! Even better if it's printed or a crochet style. For a preppy and polished outfit, take a page out of Cher Horowitz's book and team a plaid miniskirt with chunky sandals and a cropped cardigan. If you're thinking that sounds too '90s, we have two words for you: as if!
Now that we've dutifully made our point that '90s trends are where it's at, keep scrolling for a breakdown of the 16 wardrobe staples we swear by from the decade. Plus, shop our edit! Everything is $215 or less, and most pieces come in under $100.
We love Hannah Baxter's combination of a polo tee, a denim miniskirt, platform sandals, and a beaded bag. The pops of bright green make it super playful.
What's more '90s than a good ol' tube tube? Whether in a bright color or neutral tone, we love this look with high-waisted bottoms like skirts, pants, and shorts. For more polish, try layering one under a blazer.
Express x Karla Ribbed Bandeau Tube Top ($5, originally $20)
A range of platforms capture a '90s vibe, but these ultrathick flatforms embody the decade best.
Zara Platform Wedges ($60)
Jeffrey Campbell Matain Slides ($88, originally $125)
Give your skinny jeans a break in favor of loose legs á la the '90s. With plenty of versions out there, choose from high-rise fits, low-slung styles, acid washes, and versions with rips and distressing.
Fendi gave us the most famous versions of these slim shoulder bags that tuck perfectly under the arm, and the style is major for 2020. Our favorites include faux croc, neon colors, and pastel hues.
Perhaps the most ubiquitous piece to come out of the '90s, slip dresses are incredibly versatile whether you wear one on its own or layered under knits, over tees, or with a denim jacket. From solid colors to floral prints, this wardrobe essential truly stands the test of time.
From New Balance to Nike and Reebok, the '90s were all about classic sneakers with just about everything. Go the "grandpa" route by styling a pair with loose trousers, or pair yours with a denim skirt or minidress.
New Balance 574 Sneakers ($80)
Baring a bit of midriff is hardly exclusive to the '90s, but there are plenty of quintessential outfits where these skin-baring tops are at the crux, particularly a plaid or sweater style.
For a '90s grunge look, chunky sandals are the pièce de résistance. This trend is undoubtedly our favorite "ugly" shoe trend of the moment.
We can't talk about '90s trends without discussing plaid. Whether you are here for a preppy interpretation à la Cher Horowitz or prefer a grunge vibe, checked skirts, trousers, dresses, and tops totally reference the decade.
It doesn't have to be a rainy day to rock a bucket hat. You can instantly add '90s factor to any outfit with one of these in the mix.
L*Space Sunchaser Hat ($55)
The 2000s were all about the denim mini, but longer denim skirts are more specific to the '90s. Pair yours with a tube top, platform sandals, and a bucket hat for a super-'90s look.
Mango Midi Denim Skirt ($60)
Heeled flip-flops are another quintessentially '90s shoe trend that's back with a vengeance. Try them with a pair of baggy jeans, a denim midi skirt, or a slip dress for throwback chic.
Dolce Vita Bruna Heels ($120)
Aqua Elsie High-Heel Thong Sandals ($64, originally $92)
Baggy trousers are one of those so-wrong-it's-right kind of trends. You know, the type we picture on dads and grandparents. Well, in the '90s, this look was major (think Meg Ryan at the end of You've Got Mail) with a baby tee, sneakers, and a cute mini bag.
Levi's Dad Chino Pants ($70, originally $98)
Barely there sandals made a considerable comeback last summer, but they're a trend straight out of the '90s, in fact. We love them with just about everything, from dresses to jeans. Heck, even sweats if that's your vibe!
Reformation Pari Sandal ($198)
Carrie Bradshaw squealed with disdain at the idea of stylish women wearing scrunchies, but little did she know the hair accessory would be such a staple in 2020. From silky versions to fuzzy fabrics and printed styles, we're all about them!
Cotton:On So Me Scrunchie ($3, originally $4)
Another platform shoe trend to emerge from the '90s is sneakers, and boy, do we love this look for casual-chic style. They are the perfect offset to a miniskirt and pretty top for date night and look just as great with baggy jeans and a tube top.