Get Your Groove On: Here’s What To Wear To A 90s Party
Themed parties will never not be iconic – and there’s one to fit every and any theme. If you’re looking for inspiration on what to wear to a 90s party, we have just the looks for you.
Feeling a little bit of 90s nostalgia? Us too – the 90s were a magical time for iconic fashion trends, music, and movies. It was the era of butterfly clips, bucket hats, grunge, choker necklaces, baggy pants, the Backstreet Boys, and whole lot more.
It’s definitely hard not to miss this decade. So if you’re looking to party like it’s 1999, this article is for you! We’ve put together a list of what to wear to a 90s party — and don’t worry, we’ve even included some of our favorite outfits from the era in case you’d like some ideas on what to wear out.
What To Wear To A 90s Party
1. Flannel Shirt
Flannel shirts are great if you’re looking for a casual outfit that has a bit of 90s grunge. This fabric was all over the place during the decade, both in in indie rock styles as well as mainstream pop culture. We love how its softness gives off an airy yet rugged vibe when paired with denim shorts or overalls.
Flannel shirts are such a great way to add personality to your outfit without having to put too much thought into it!
2. Crop Tops
A crop top is an essential piece for every 90s outfit, and can be worn with a pair of high-waisted jeans to give your look some edge. You can also wear it under a denim jacket, leather jacket, or bomber jacket.
Don’t forget to complete your outfit with a pair of trainers or a platform shoes, as well as some big hoop earrings as your statement accessory!
3. Baggy Jeans
Baggy jeans are a staple of the 90s party wardrobe. They’re comfortable and can be worn with almost anything (e.g., sneakers, heels, crop tops, tank tops, t-shirts and flannel shirts).
These slouchy jeans were popularized by grunge bands and hip-hop artists back in the day, and quickly became a symbol of rebellion. These pants were also very popular within the skating community because they allowed skaters to move freely.
Want to go for a double denim look that rivals Britney and Justin’s? Pair these jeans with a matching oversized denim jacket!
4. Fanny Packs
Fanny packs were all the rage in the 90s, and they were a fashion statement that crossed all social lines. Even if you weren’t from an urban area, you could still sport a fanny pack as long as your outfit matched the vibe.
Today’s hipsters still use this trend with their oversized glasses frames and mom jeans to create a look that’s modern and vintage-inspired at the same time. This one accessory can help you feel like a 90s kid while keeping your valuables safe at night.
5. Plaid Skirts
Plaid skirts are a classic 90s look, made iconic by the cult-classic Clueless film that showed Cher Horowitz wearing her super-popular yellow plaid outfit.
As plaid skirts have continued to be popular throughout the decades, you can now find one in almost any store, especially around fall. As a plus, they generally don’t tend to cost that much, so if you miss out on this trend now, you can always pick one up next season.
To get the most out of your costume, pair your plaid skirt with white knee-high socks and sneakers or even platform Mary Jane shoes for that chic, Rachel Green-inspired look.
6. Band T-Shirt
A t-shirt is a great way to show your love for music, whether it be a boy band or a rock band tee. A band t-shirt can be worn with jeans, shorts, or skirts. An example of an awesome (though cliche) 90s band would be Nirvana, AC/DC, or the Rolling Stones.
For that perfect 90s touch, we suggest wearing a long-sleeve shirt under an oversized band tee like the outfit we featured above. Pair it with baggy jeans and combat boots for the perfect grunge look, and you’re good to go!
7. Neon Colors
The 90s featured neon and bright colors heavily – think back to the wacky and fun fashion made popular in The Fresh Prince Of Belair, for example! If grunge isn’t your aesthetic of choice, neon colors and patterns are a great alternative to bring out your personality.
Neon clothing is pretty easy to find in most stores: think bright pink sweaters with little hearts on them. And if you want something more subtle, try a pair of neon leggings with a basic black shirt for example, or instead, a classic Hawaiian-print shirt in a more muted color.
8. T-Shirts Under Strappy Tops
This particular combo is a mus-tryt for a 90s party. A plain white shirt under a strappy top (or even a silk slip dress) can create a unique look without you necessarily having to buy anything new.
Complete this look with jeans, a fanny pack, your favorite sunglasses, and a bandana over your hair.
9. Disco Outfits
Disco and jazzercise were having a bit of a renaissance in the 90s, so these outfits are always a good choice for a 90s themed party. If you decide to wear this outfit, make sure to wear as many colors as possible.
To achieve this look, go for a one-piece bodysuit with geometric shapes and patterns, a pair of neon tights, and an oversized crop top to show off your shoulders. Makeup is optional (but fun!), and remember that bold earrings in bright colors are a must-have accessory!
Just make sure that you don’t wear this outfit with 80s style hair – instead, opt for something more sleek!
10. Hip-Hop Clothing
90s hip hop aesthetic is all about baggy jeans, colorful shirts, fanny packs (if you’re feeling fancy), and windbreakers. You can also wear denim jackets if you want to be extra 90s. Also, don’t forget to add your favorite snapback!
11. Baggy Overalls
Baggy overalls are another absolute must for any 90s-themed party. They can be worn in many different ways and will keep you looking cool and comfortable all night long.
For example, you can pair them with a striped crop top or an animal print t-shirt to create an interesting outfit that doesn’t look too over the top. Or, if you’re feeling lazy on the day of your big event, simply throw on a flannel shirt and some sneakers and leave it at that!
12. Striped Tops
Striped tops are a great way to add some subtle visual interest to your outfit. You can wear them with jeans or a skirt and they’ll look great.
Your stripes can be horizontal or vertical, and they’re a fun way to add personality to an otherwise boring outfit.
13. Abstract Wrap Tops
Abstract print was especially popular back in the day, and most especially in the form of chic wrap tops. These tops are dressy, feminine, and perfect for wearing on a hot summer night.
What’s great is that you can wear this even after your themed party, as the trend has made a comeback in the last year! Pair them with your favorite straight-leg jeans or a denim skirt and complete your look with a pair of white sneakers for a casual look, or ankle booties for something more elevated.
14. Colorful Windbreakers
When you’re feeling like showing up to the party in your freshest Fresh Prince Of Bel Air outfit, look no further than these colorful, nostalgic windbreakers.
To elevate your look even more, accessorize with a ’90s snapback and some colorful socks!
Additional Style Tips
High-waisted jeans are super cute and very 90s. Since you’re going to a ’90s party, you might as well wear this popular style, whether that’s in the form of a skinny jean, straight-leg jeans or a more baggy style (stick with the latter for a more 90s feel!).
The 90s were great because of the classic look of baggy jeans that made wearing a crop top or t-shirt cool. You can also use them with leather jackets, plaid skirts, and even converse sneakers.
Conclusion
When it comes to finding cool outfits to wear to a 90s party, try to pick clothing that you feel good in! You don’t have to spend a lot of money on an outfit for this party because it doesn’t matter what brand or style you wear – just have fun and enjoy your time with friends.
And there you have it -– our style guide on what to wear to a 90s party. If you’re still looking for more fashion tips and inspiration, check the posts down below!
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