The 1990s Trends That Are Having Comeback

There are many, many sartorial trends that we are happy to leave firmly in the 90s (butterfly hair clips, knee high socks and handkerchief tops anyone?). We just thank our lucky stars that our fashion faux pas – and haircuts – weren’t documented on social media and can be gladly relegated to the past and forgotten. Still, the nineties are back, and whilst it is often said that if you remember a trend the first-time round, it’s best to swerve the comeback iteration, there are five nineties trends we’ve spotted on the fashion radar that we think are worth a revisit.

Flannel Shirts

Tartan was the print trend that defined the nineties. Now we’re not saying you need to squeeze back into a pleated tartan mini skirt a la Cher in Clueless, but flannel shirts are an easy-to-wear option. Pair with stonewash jeans for added 90s bonus points and do go oversized for a laidback feel.

Slip Dresses

Slinky, barely-there silk satin slip dresses were the effortless evening look of the 90s, hugging the bodies of everyone from Kate Moss to Gwyneth Paltrow to Jennifer Aniston. The look was square-necked and spaghetti-strapped in metallics, pastels or black, and although absolutely in keeping with the 1990s minimalist aesthetic, they are in fact a timeless party classic. Layer over a skinny tee and pair with chunky boots for another nineties look.

Bomber Jacket

If you’re bored with a denim jacket or khaki shacket to throw over your t-shirt and jeans at weekends, you’ll be pleased to see the oversized bomber shape making a reappearance. Go preppy with a varsity style or more luxe with a cashmere number.

Brown Lipstick

There’s a simple reason why brown lipsticks need a take-two: across the skin tone spectrum they are universally flattering, from a bold cocoa to a more neutral soft taupe. If you’re worried about being washed out, opt for warmer terracotta tones and to soften the look, add a layer of clear gloss – another 90s favourite – on top.

Frosted Finishes

From frosted lips (remember Heather Shimmer?) to pretty coloured pastel washes on lids, frosted is the on-trend make-up finish right now. Not quite full glitter, a frosted look has an iridescent quality to it; opt for shades to flatter your eye colour (browns for blue eyes, purples for green) and, if you’re feeling brave, coloured frosted tips to your lashes are de rigueur again, too.



Lydia Mansi
December 2022