Style Notes: 90s Fall Fashion

how to derive inspiration from a timeless era in style

In a time where we sometimes push the style envelope past “interesting” fully into “wait … what,” it’s great to reflect on a decade known for its simplicity.

90s style is often referenced in fashion magazines, style TikToks, and publications on and offline because many of the styles of that era were so easy and so cool.

We often mistake over the top for stylish, but I actually find the opposite to be true. It’s easier to appear “fashionable” when you’re mixing patterns, mixing textures, and wearing every silhouette and color in the land. But can you master a simple black monochrome look? Can you make a pair of Levi’s and a tee and an oversized bag feel compelling? Can you pair sneakers with a dress and still balance effortless and intentional?

(Not to be confused with “Quiet Luxury” or “Old Money” because you know my thoughts.)

When it comes to successfully integrating 90s staples or any trends that skew more simple, it’s all about how you wear them.

I find style to be the most impactful when it’s practical.

This may be confusing for those of you who know my deep affinity for heels, mini bags, and chainmail. But hear me out.

90s style is cool because it’s pre-Internet. It’s pre-core. Pre-aesthetic. Pre-everything. So what we see is what people were actually wearing. Things were trends because they were staples at the time. And they were staples because they were wearable.

Nobody was dressing for the ‘gram. Or making ootd videos on TT. Everyone was just getting dressed based off vibes and function.

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