The 1990s was a vibrant decade for women's fashion, marked by a blend of comfort and bold expression. One of the most iconic pieces from this era was the slip dress, inspired by 1940s undergarments. Initially designed to fit closely to the body, slip dresses became looser by the mid-1990s. These dresses gained popularity among punk rockers and those embracing the grunge aesthetic, while designers like Marc Jacobs and Prada incorporated them into their collections.
Another staple of 1990s fashion was leggings, often paired with oversized sweatshirts and slouch socks, creating a comfortable yet stylish look. Stirrup pants, which featured a strap underfoot, were also popular during this time. Flannel shirts became synonymous with the comfort-driven trends of the 1990s and were often worn in earthy plaids over denim jeans.
Leopard print emerged as a favored fabric choice, featuring prominently in various outfits throughout the decade. From accessories such as hats and gloves to full outfits showcased by supermodels like Naomi Campbell, leopard print became a versatile option that included everything from bikinis to evening dresses. Baggy jeans, often referred to as wide-leg jeans, gained significant traction among various subcultures and were typically paired with simple tees.
Oversized sweaters were a defining element of women's wardrobes in the early 1990s, particularly within grunge culture. Logo sweatshirts from brands like Starter became highly popular, often worn over baggy jeans. The later part of the decade saw a shift towards a schoolgirl aesthetic, featuring sleeveless sweaters layered over blouses. Leotards continued to thrive in the 1990s, often made from Lycra and spandex, and began to transition to a more casual style with the introduction of Lycra pants and tees.
Slouch socks were a popular accessory, often mismatched to contribute to the playfulness of 90s fashion. Bike shorts gained traction among celebrities, becoming a trend for both workout attire and casual wear, often paired with oversized sweatshirts. Leather pants served as a quintessential fashion statement of the 1990s, typically worn with fitted tops. Lastly, denim button-down shirts with western cuts became a summertime staple, styled with colored jeans.