The Best ‘90s Inspired Outfits for Men
Your favorite trends from the ‘90s are making a modern comeback.
Looking to the past for inspiration isn’t a novel idea, especially when it comes to men’s fashion. You take the good, leave the bad, and use that to reinvent classics that inspire a sense of nostalgia. The ‘90s influenced major movements in fashion that became iconic in menswear and are worth another look. Many of our favorite trends are inspired by rock music of the era—grunge was kind of a big deal—as well as skater and alternative culture. It’s a simple, low-key style that can be achieved with a few versatile pieces. The shirts were oversized, the color palettes were muted, and the vibe was hella chill. Below, we’re sharing six ‘90s fashion trends that had their moment and are now making their way back into the spotlight again. Keep reading to learn how to wear these old-school trends today.
Throwback stripes
Why we love it:
A preppier take on ‘90s trends, this timeless pattern looks good on pretty much everyone. Stripes are striking in simplicity and embody a versatility that has obviously withstood the test of time.
How to wear it:
Go for a relaxed-fit as a nod to this era when choosing a tee and jeans combo. Subtle stripes are great for a laid-back look or, make a bolder statement with a textured striped shirt and coordinating shorts.
Offbeat graphics
Why we love it:
If there’s one thing men in the ‘90s did not shy away from wearing, it was bold styles and loud patterns. We’re all about stepping out of our style comfort zone in order to have a little fun with our looks.
How to wear it:
Take into consideration the one item you want to stand out and build the rest of your outfit with classic pieces. By keeping this in mind, you’ll be able to anchor the look so it doesn’t feel over the top.
Washed-out blues
Why we love it:
No matter how many years go by, there are some styles we know will always work. We’re keeping the color palette simple but looking to lighter denim washes to give our essentials a ‘90s twist.
How to wear it:
Blue and white are subtle colors that can easily be pulled off, but don’t stop there. When combined with novelty printed accessories, this palette brings a carefree-cool vibe to just about any look.
Plaid button-downs
Why we love it:
What would this decade’s fashion inspiration be without a few plaid button-downs in the mix? A wardrobe essential of the era (especially for anyone at a Pearl Jam concert), the modern interpretation of these is a bit more polished.
How to wear it:
Wear them buttoned all the way up, or opt for a heavier flannel that can be worn open as more of a shacket. Swap out your dark-wash denim for a lighter pair as the perfect complement.
Denim jackets
Why we love it:
Denim jackets have never gone out of style—they’re a timeless staple and we haven’t seen them this prevalent since the ‘90s.
How to wear it:
We’re bringing this piece into present day while still working with the classics. Honor the retro-vibe of the jacket by styling it with a simple white T-shirt, vintage-inspired khakis, and chunky sneakers. For a modern vibe, go with a pair of skinny jeans in a contrasting wash and a graphic tee.
Leather jackets and “dad” jeans
Why we love it:
This decade had a laid-back rocker vibe that now lends itself to less rigid (and less formal) outerwear.
How to wear it:
A leather jacket, which pairs back nicely to a classic plaid button-down, brings both functional warmth and an indisputable cool factor to any outfit. Try this look with “dad” jeans (classified as light-wash, high-waist denim with a straight-leg fit) to channel your inner Uncle Jesse. Go ahead and cuff ‘em to show off your lace-up boots.
