Flashback to Now: The 1990s In S/S 2014 Fashion

By Anja Wade

Now, this is the story all about how my life got flipped, turned upside down and I’d like to take a minute, just sit right there, I’ll tell you how I became the prince of… Oh! Sorry! Didn’t see you there. Got totally distracted by the theme song to one of the most popular TV shows from the 1990s. See, I’ve had the 90’s on the brain lately, as it’s supposedly making a comeback in fashion. Check any blogs or websites devoted to Spring/Summer 2014, and you’ll likely see references to this decade in fashion. But what does it mean when people say that the ‘90s are coming back on the runway and in stores? Well, let’s revisit the notorious decade and figure out what it was all about. (Get it, Notorious like B.I.G.? Hehehe).
First, let’s start with some of the major trends. There were many:

1. The grunge-inspired look. Simple and messy with lots of jeans and flannel shirts.
2. Oversized shirts.
3. Babydoll dresses.
4. Leggings and stirrup pants.
5. Drainpipe jeans, flared jeans, cargo pants, and low-waisted jeans.
6. Preppy casual.
7. Pastel colors, neons, plaid, tartan, and hippie floral prints.
8. Logo mania. Logos, especially high fashion logos, on everything. Worn proudly.
9. Crop tops.
10. Overalls.

And what about accessories?

1. Oversized watches like those of the Baby G brand.
2. Platform shoes and sneakers. Jelly shoes.
3. Slouch socks with tights.
4. Colored tights.
5. Neon everythang.
6. Doc Martens.
7. Knee high boots.
8. Bandanas.
9. Large hoop earrings.
10. Converse, adidas, or street-smart high-top trainers.

So, now that these lists have jogged your memory back into the era of supermodels and boy bands, let’s talk shop for Spring/Summer 2014. What precisely has reappeared from the decade? Slip dresses with spaghetti straps as seen in Jason Wu’s collection. Logos, as seen in Alexander Wang’s collection. Crop tops, as seen at Rodarte. Overalls at DKNY. In general, a return to the color palettes and silhouettes from the 1990s. If you’re wondering whether these styles have invaded more than just the runway, the answer is yes. It’s back in the streets (though one wonders if it ever left), and in stores already. Check out Forever 21’s “Totally 90’s” promo or Net-A-Porter’s write-up on “Gloss and Grunge.” There’s something for everyone.

 Image of 90s sitcom My So-Called Life.  Sourced from http://www.tabayag.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/03/angelaskirt.jpg.