The ‘90s Fashion Revival Is in Full Swing—Here’s How to Wear the Trend This Summer
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I suppose I should have seen the ‘90s fashion revival coming—after the return of Y2K, it only makes sense for us to keep moving backward in time, feeding off the nostalgia as we shop—but I have to admit, I did not anticipate the trend lasting for quite so long.
It started with white tank tops. Suddenly they were everywhere—all over our TikTok and Instagram feeds, popping up on most-loved lists at retailers like Shopbop and Nordstrom and even making an appearance on the runway at Prada’s FW 22 show. Then followed other simple basics, like non-distressed, medium-wash, straight-leg jeans, mid-rise wide-leg trousers, button-downs that are neither too fitted nor oversize and jersey maxi skirts and tank dresses, all in a range of neutral hues—black, white, camel, slate gray, chocolate brown, beige. On their own, each of these wardrobe staples seems like smart, if slightly boring, investment pieces, but when worn together they evoke images of chic ‘90s minimalism. And shoppers, apparently, can’t get enough.
Getty Images
The trend has continued to grow in popularity, season after season, with a whole new wave of women suddenly flocking to copy the looks of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy. We seem to have reached a sort of fever pitch, with ‘90s-inspired staples becoming the new idealized version of the capsule wardrobe. Think slingback heels, column skirts, knee-high boots, crisp button-up shirts, straight-leg jeans and any and all shades of brown. Even the ‘90s brands we adored—GAP, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein—are rising in popularity once more.
So, in order to party like it’s 1999 I’ve pulled together eight gorgeous outfits that are easy to copy and perfectly on trend. Here’s how to rock the ‘90s minimalism to make Rachel Green proud.
I Got Over a Dozen Compliments on This Maxi Dress in One Night (and It’s Insanely Comfortable)
1. Button-Up Shirt + Slip Dress
A tried-and-true duo, this pairing can be dolled up for cocktails or down for a beach day. Make sure your button-up is a bit oversize, and opt for a slip dress that hits somewhere between mid-calf and just below the knee. Bonus points if you add square sunglasses and a matching scrunchie to the mix.
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Uniqlo Satin Long-Sleeve Blouse
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Vince Satin Slip Dress
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J.Crew Oversized Silk Scrunchie
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2. Column Dress + Slingbacks
Christian Vierig/Getty Images
Nineties minimalism really thrives off creating a column-like silhouette with long lines and straight cuts that don’t flare like an A-line skirt, nor do they hug every curve like a bodycon dress. You can emphasize that column shape with the help of pointy-toe slingbacks (flats or heels) which make your legs appear even longer.
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Reformation Kendi Denim Dress
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ASOS DESIGN Strut slingback kitten heeled shoes in red
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Melie Bianco Convertible Sasha Bag
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3. Button-Up Shirt + Tank Top + Straight-Leg Jeans
Daniel Zuchnik/Getty Images
This timeless trio can be dressed up for a city vibe with strappy sandals and a sleek baguette bag, or down a la Chessy from The Parent Trap with sneakers and a scrunchie. My favorite versions match the color of your button-up to the color of your tee or tank top, but you can also have fun with a mix of hues if you prefer something more vibrant.
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Madewell Signature Poplin Oversized Shirt
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Everlane Organic Cotton Cropped Muscle Tee
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Abercrombie & Fitch Ultra-High Rise ‘90s Straight Jeans
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4. Tube Top + Column Skirt
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Rather than reach for a structured peplum top or spandex tube top, opt instead for one made of cotton or linen with a simple silhouette that gradually skims out around the hips to create a smooth line along your torso. For accessories, try some bold hoops or a dainty pendant necklace to draw attention up to your clavicle.
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Babaton Midtown Linen Tube Top
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Babton Slip Linen Maxi Skirt
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Ana Luisa Abby Hoop Earrings
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5. High-Neck Tank + Linen Trousers
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
The high-neck silhouette is a classic ‘90s style and looks gorgeous on so many different body types. Tuck a simple tank into a pair of straight-leg linen pants for a look that’s simple and posh but won’t cause you to overheat.
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H&M Ribbed Tank Top
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NA-KD Elastic Waist Linen Trousers
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Birkenstock Arizona Sandals
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6. Fitted Tank Top + Knee-Length Skirt
Similar to the column dress above, ‘90s knee-length skirts sit somewhere in between a flared A-line and a fitted pencil skirt. To keep this look from veering too far into “office attire,” be sure to choose a handful of fun accessories. I’m talking lace-up block heels, cat-eye sunglasses or even swapping a classic black tank for one with a more architectural neckline.
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AllSaints Sofia Tank Top
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St. John’s Bay A-Line Skirt
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Aldo Harmonni Ankle Strap Sandals
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7. Tailored Vest + Bermuda Shorts
Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Swap your denim cut-offs for a pair of breezy Bermuda shorts for a look that’s much more Monica Gellar and less Daisy Duke. Leather and faux-leather, while incredibly chic, may be too hot for peak summer, but do try to stick with fabrics that have a bit of structure to them, like a heavy linen or crepe, to maintain the elevated vibes. P.S. They also look great with a crisp button-up shirt or silk cami.
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Banana Republic Lina Linen Vest
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Topshop Crossover Waist Shorts
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AMNOOL Faux-Leather Bermuda Shorts
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8. Cropped Vest + Straight-Leg Jeans
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
This combo feels a little ‘90s and a little Y2K, in all the best ways. For the vest, look for fabrics with a bit of heft to them like heavy cotton or twill, and be sure not to choose anything too form fitting (looser is better here). Also, if you aren’t super keen on showing off your midriff, you can opt instead for a vest that hits right at the waistband of your jeans.
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Bershka Cropped Vest Top
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Abercrombie & FitchMara Tailored Vest Top
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Madewell Baggy Straight Jeans
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What to Wear to a ‘90s Party, Whether You’re Going for Casual Cool or Full-On Costume
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