The 1990s are one of the most iconic periods of fashion, and this time period is one that many of us remember living through. Whether you were born in the 90s, you were a teenager during this time, or you are looking back at the unique fashions of the 1990s now, there is plenty to choose from when it comes to celebrating this era with a party.
Our article gives you the best 90s party outfit ideas so you have an idea of what to wear to your next 90s-themed party, whether it’s a themed club night or a nostalgic birthday dinner.
Celebrating an Iconic Fashion Period
In the 1990s, fashion across the United States began settling down from the over-the-top styles of the 80s. Fashion became more casual, more comfortable, and somewhat minimalistic as people began adopting styles complete with baggy pants, t-shirts, and loose slip dresses.
The 1990s was also when the supermodel era peaked, and the general trend for women at the time was to be skinny and embrace clothes that enhanced this body type.
Subculture influences abounded in the 1990s, as did more mainstream influences like movies and TV shows. The sitcom Friends is especially notable for the influence the actor’s and actress’s fashion choices had on the 90s in general.
With the rise of grunge music and bands like Nirvana in the 90s, this casual style and a sense of shifting away from the glamourous 90s styles became ever more popular.
It’s also important to note that the 90s gave rise to the trend of vintage fashion, and second-hand stores became incredibly popular during this time. This went for individuals looking for clothing to match a specific subculture, as well as those looking for the next trendiest item.
Simple outfits and utilitarian styles reigned until the end of the 90s. Then, more bohemian styles started to show their popularity, ushering in an era of low-cut jeans and crop tops as we entered the early 2000s.
While the 90s was host to a wide range of different fashions, some are more notable and distinct than others. Cargo pants, baggy clothing, flannel shirts with ripped jeans, and crop tops all take the lead for the most popular 90s styles.
90s Party Outfit Ideas: What to Wear
The following 90s party outfit ideas can be worn by anyone who wants to embrace the 90s style at their next party:
- Cargo pants and a crop top
- A slip dress and heels, for a more formal occasion
- Neon colors, or a neon tracksuit
- Baggy pants and a T-shirt
- Denim overalls
- Matching plaid skirt sets
- Cropped T-shirts with a cardigan and khakis or a mini-skirt
- Graphic t-shirts with ripped or baggy jeans
- Clothing with plenty of animal prints, tie-dye, or rhinestones
Additionally, the 90s brought plenty of accessories, and no 90s party dress would be complete without the addition of bucket hats, sunglasses, chokers, chains, and other distinctive items. You can mix and match these accessories to craft the perfect look.
If you are trying to capture the makeup look of the 90s, you can also embrace bright blue or colorful eyeshadows, dark lip liners, and facial glitter or jewelry.
Where Can I Buy 90s Party Outfits?
90s party outfits shouldn’t be too hard to find these days, as many stores and fashion brands are embracing 90s looks today. You can go to your local mall or department stores to find 90s items, and thrift stores are a great place to locate 90s outfits that may have been donated.
You can also order your 90s party outfit online, including ordering accessories online, but keep in mind any shipping timelines and the potential need for returns or exchanges if you do so. You don’t want to be waiting until the last minute and then end up without a great 90s outfit for your party.
How Do I Accessorize My 90s Party Outfit?
Accessorizing your 90s party outfit can be overwhelming, as there are plenty of accessories from the 1990s that have made their way back into popular fashion today.
Chokers, cat’s eye glasses, gold chunky jewelry, and even bucket hats are all great choices for embracing the 90s style while still looking your most fashionable.
We also recommend chunky high heels, platform sneakers, loafers, and flats as the best 90s-inspired shoe choices to complete your outfit.
Where Can I Wear My 90s Outfit?
Outside of your next 90s party, your 90s-inspired outfit might be a good fit for today’s fashion. Many of the items that we associate with the 90s, including crop tops, cardigans, sheer dresses, and even chokers, are making their way back into the mainstream of fashion trends.
Your 90s party outfit can easily be used as an outfit for a night out on the town or a day spent exploring your city with friends.
Keeping the 90s Alive
The 1990s are one of the most iconic periods of fashion, with plenty of fashion wins and trends that are gaining renewed popularity today.
Whether you are dressing for a 90s party, or you are taking these 90s-inspired looks into your everyday life, it’s important to find an outfit that you feel comfortable and confident in. From there, you can keep the 90s alive with your fashion and embrace this unique period in the fashion world.
