In the world of fashion, everything old is always eventually new again–and the casual cool of the grunge era is that comeback trend that just won’t quit. The nineties look has got serious staying power. So break out the slip dress, distressed jeans, and some chunky, can’t-be-bothered boots for an updated take on ’90s fashion–and maybe add a shimmery eye or a high ponytail to really set the mood.
Getting in on the ’90s thing doesn’t have to mean you look like you’re headed to a costume party. Ahead, here’s how to dress ’90s and still look totally right now.
The bodysuit is a quintessential ’90s piece. A long sleeve style will score you extra throwback points when paired with high-rise denim shorts and layered gold chains.
Shop Bodysuits
Slip dresses over fitted tops were another signature ’90s look. A snakeskin print midi dress over a funnel neck bodysuit and platform sneakers nails the trend in a modern way.
Shop Slip Dresses and Bodysuits
Cardigans had a major moment in the late ’90s, when cropped, midriff-baring versions popped up everywhere. Channel Liv Tyler in Empire Records by wearing yours buttoned up on its own with a mini skirt. Skinny sunglasses not required, but highly recommended.
Shop Cardigans
Plaid button-ups were a key element of ’90s grunge fashion; a shirt haphazardly tied around your waist achieves that effortless vibe, even today. This styling trick is a fun way to add interest–and a sporty edge–to fitted sweater dresses and body-skimming styles. Bonus points if you finish off your look with chunky sneakers and small sunglasses.
Shop Plaid
Dr. Martens combat boots–and chunky shoes in general–were a ’90s fashion staple. Even now, rugged lug-sole boots infuse a dash of punk into any outfit. Balance out the bulk by pairing yours with shorter hemlines, ie: denim cutoffs or a floaty floral mini dress.
Shop Boots
Grunge-era denim was all about relaxed fits and distressing–and cuffing the hems was a go-to styling hack. Score extra ’90s vibes by wearing your rolled jeans with chunky boots–and hair clips!
Shop Jeans
No ’90s wardrobe was complete without overalls, and the onesie look still works! We’re not talking about the one-strap-up, Fresh Prince of Bel Air kind, either. Streamlined zip-front overalls in sleek black make for a throwback look that feels completely modern. Wear yours over a classic white tee or sleeveless top to get a little grunge–and a lot of chic–all at once.
Shop Overalls
We want to see how you dress ’90s! Show us on Instagram @Lulus using #lovelulus and shop our ’90s Trend picks for more!
(This post was originally published on November 6, 2013 and has been updated with new content)
A new season brings a fresh fashion perspective--and for Fall 2026, the mood is rich,…
Can’t get enough of floral prints? Good news: You don’t have to leave them behind…
Hoco season is here, and that means the search for the perfect dress is on.…
As we celebrate three decades of Lulus, one thing is clear: our brand would be nothing without…
Fall is officially back, and somehow, it feels fresh every single time. Between the crisp…
Late summer dressing calls for pieces that still work in the heat but hint at…
View Comments
I remember The Grunge look in the 90's. I think some people are still in this era LOL
Ugh, god. Grunge already had a comeback a few years ago, let's let it die already.
Literally none of this is grunge.