Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (2024)

We finally live in a time where fashion trends have come back around to a time we can remember. Hello '90s fashion – it's back and better than ever...

Everything you loved from the ’90s is officially making a comeback in 2021 – think key pieces that have revolutionised the fashion industry.Even though it’s been 30 years since the decade started, iconic separates including wide-leg denim, cropped cardigans, corset tops and tie-dye prints are resurfacing – more stylish than ever. Scroll through below to see which of your favourite—or most reviled—trends are new again…

CROPPED CARDIGANS

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (1)

Back then, there was nothing like throwing on an easy cardigan to complete any outfit. In 2021, the updated version of a cardigan is cropped and is worn as a top. Roughly 30 years ago, the styling of the cardigan resembled an oversized fit however, this year, it has shrunk in size resulting in a basic yet sexy take on the classic. Printed, ribbed, slim-fitting and typically worn sans base layer, this knit is undeniably useful for the ‘hot girl summer’ approaching.

Taking cues from Dua Lipa, make it chic by pairing it with a pair of loose-fitted shorts or denim.

TIE-DYE

The tie-dye trend was prominent in the ‘60s and ’70s and has returned in the ’90s. Then came lockdown last year, where everyone (and we mean everyone) jumped on the DIY project on makingglorious psychedelic patterns right from the comfort of their homes.

The tie-dye craze has been one impactful trend, enough that it has permeated high fashion. Seen on the runways including Dior, Givenchy and Stella McCartney, discover some of our favourite tie-dye pieces to front this summer.

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (4)

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (5)

BUSTIER TOPS AND CORSETS

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (6)

Bustier tops and corsets have officially made a comeback.Corsets in specific, almost seemed impossible to make a return in an era that sparkles with body positivity and self-love but, the Netflix show Bridgerton has made it so popular that celebrities have made the piece of clothing reach cool, cult status.

WIDE-LEG PANTS AND DENIM

Say so long to skinny jeans!The unforgiving, leg-hugging style has made way for a looser look and we’re so here for it. Wide-leg pants, mom jeans, flare denim and the high-waisted baggy style are back due to street style stars opting for more comfort, celebrities including Karlie Kloss, Gigi Hadid and more have proved that the silhouette is actually flattering on all shapes and sizes.

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (9)

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (10)

ACCESSORIES – MINIATURE BAGS, STRAPPY SANDALS AND BUCKET HATS

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (11)

Accessories have definitely made a comeback, but not in the way you think. Whilst jewellery trends tend to change every season, we’re putting the spotlight on those divisive trends that dominated the ’90s: think bucket hats, strappy sandals and miniature bags. You either loved them or wouldn’t be caught dead in one but it seems that in 2021, what was once considered a joke in the industry is looking good for the summer.

Today, these genius belt bags are back with a vengeance, bucket hats are now a stylish way to protect you from the sun and strappy sandals come in every heel size, making comfort our go-to feeling this summer.

HALTER TOPS AND SLIP DRESSES

Silk slip dresses were definitely a staple in every girl’s closet in the ’90s. Today, they’re back for everyday use – often paired with a blazer, chunky sneakers and choker necklaces – and nothing feels quite as effortless as the tried-and-true slip dress.

Spaghetti-strap tops and halter necklinesare synonymous with the late ’90s and early aughts, and 2021 is the year we’re seeing the tops come back into style in a big way.

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (12)

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (13)

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (14)

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (15)

Are ’90s trends making a comeback in 2021? (2024)

FAQs

Are the 90s making a comeback? ›

It's been over 30 years since the '90s first started (!!), and everything from the era is starting to feel brand-new again. All the looks you loved back then—or covet now while binge-watching old sitcoms—are officially back and more stylish than ever.

Are the 90s back in 2024? ›

Pinterest Confirms '90s Decor Is Coming Back in Their Summer 2024 Trend Report. And we can thank Nancy Meyers for that. Leslie Corona is the Senior Home Editor at REAL SIMPLE magazine. She has been styling, organizing, writing, and reporting on all things in the home space for a decade.

Why is 90s fashion so popular? ›

However, the popularity of grunge and alternative rock music helped bring the simple, unkempt grunge look to the mainstream by that period. This approach to fashion led to the popularization of the casual chic look, which included T-shirts, jeans, hoodies, and sneakers, a trend which would continue into the 2000s.

What old trend is coming back these days? ›

Tie-Dye. Tie-dye, another iconic trend from the '70s, has recently taken over the fashion industry again. The unique, colorful, and psychedelic patterns that were once a symbol of peace and love are now seen on everything from T-shirts to dresses and even accessories.

Is Gen Z bringing back the 90s? ›

Gen-Z's obsession with the decades before digital has revitalized 90s fashion. For the nostalgia-infused, younger generation discovering the household brands of yore has the potential to revive an aging brand straight into the 21st century.

Why is the 90s so popular now? ›

It's fun, basically. Our focus on the nineties can partly be put down to the 30 year theory around nostalgia, which dictates that things start to look interesting rather than just old-fashioned after three decades.

What was the biggest trend in the 90s? ›

Slip dresses, bomber jackets, scrunchies and plaid flannel shirts were all the rage during the '90s — and many of these fashion trends are working their way back into vogue (although some of these pieces may have never left your closet).

What makes a 90s look? ›

Early 1990s style basics

Common looks for women were crop tops, babydoll dresses over leggings, black leather jackets with shoulder pads, and colored or embroidered jeans, with slouch socks, Keds, or ballet flats.

What style is coming back in 2024? ›

Style Notes: While Y2K might have been the leading inspiration for the past few years, we're seeing the Eighties making a fashion comeback in 2024, particularly when it comes to evening wear. Think voluminous silhouettes, high-octane metallics and dresses that embrace the joy of dressing up.

What decade is making a comeback? ›

The 80s Power Dressing

Bright colours, tailored jackets, and cinched waists are all fashion staples that have made a comeback. These influences from the 80's-style business wear aren't only for the boardroom anymore, they're being re-mixed with softer fabrics to give a semblance of the 80's silhouettes.

Do trends come back every 20 years? ›

For a long time, a common rule of thumb for fashion trends was that trends typically circle back every two decades, also referred to as the 20-year trend cycle. According to Forbes, with the rise of social media and fast fashion companies, the 20-year trend cycle has become extremely condensed.

When did 90s culture end? ›

Known as the "post-Cold War decade", the 1990s are culturally imagined as the period from the Revolutions of 1989 until the September 11 attacks in 2001. The dissolution of the Soviet Union marked the end of Russia's status as a superpower, the end of a multipolar world, and rise of anti-Western sentiment.

What decade of fashion is coming back in 2024? ›

While some new (and surprising) Y2K pieces are set to return to our wardrobes, including rugby-style polo shirts reminiscent of Jacob Elordi's style in Saltburn and capri pants—yes, really—it's the Eighties influence that will be seeping into our 2024 outfits.

What will the 90s be remembered for? ›

The internet went mainstream, grunge and pop dominated music charts, and the president had an affair. And that's just a tiny fraction of what went down. Even if you lived through it, it's easy to forget all of the things that made the '90s truly unique.

Is 90s makeup coming back? ›

And while there are plenty of '90s beauty trends I'm keen to leave in the decade (thin eyebrows, for one) there are some '90s makeup trends that are coming back around again in 2024. And with a bit of makeup fine-tuning and learnings, I'm seriously into them again.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Rubie Ullrich

Last Updated:

Views: 6388

Rating: 4.1 / 5 (52 voted)

Reviews: 91% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Rubie Ullrich

Birthday: 1998-02-02

Address: 743 Stoltenberg Center, Genovevaville, NJ 59925-3119

Phone: +2202978377583

Job: Administration Engineer

Hobby: Surfing, Sailing, Listening to music, Web surfing, Kitesurfing, Geocaching, Backpacking

Introduction: My name is Rubie Ullrich, I am a enthusiastic, perfect, tender, vivacious, talented, famous, delightful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.