8 '90s Trends That Are Making A Comeback For Fall 2025

Style trends from the '90s have been on the rise over the past few years, but seem to have reached a fever-pitch as of 2025. The nostalgic Y2K fashion trends are dominating every sartorial choice, from footwear to handbags to everything else we're wearing. While there were certain trends from that bygone era that were a little too funky for our contemporary taste — think layered camis, visible thongs, or skunk highlights — others are finding their way back into contemporary style in a fresh way. Even the velvet tracksuit is edging its way back into wardrobes. Hey, it's comfortable, so there's that.

'90s fashion is so compelling because there's a lot to work with. Punk styles and layering were a big part of the era, as was denim-on-denim styling. There are fresh ways to style that '90s grunge aesthetic that was so popular. Baggy jeans, layered vests, and long trench coats were all part of the look. But the era was also chic and minimal, and the '90s were influenced by certain stars who nailed this style. Jennifer Aniston still wears certain '90s trends today that she loved back then. Other stars, like Naomi Campbell, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, and Gwyneth Paltrow, were '90s icons who gave master classes in minimalist dressing that we're copying for fall 2025. 

In terms of '90s shoes, there's nothing we love more than the mule. The dainty slip-on shoe strikes the perfect balance between dressy and practical. Balanced atop a delicate kitten heel, the '90s mule adds a subdued elegance to slip dresses, straight-leg denim, or capris. Best of all, they can be paired easily with tights to add extra warmth in the cooler months. Pointed-toe mules add an artful flair to jeans or trousers, while open-toe mules hark back to the warmer days of summer on mild, fall days.

While wide-leg denim and structured trousers were running rampant in the '90s, the flattering capri was a less-remembered pair of bottoms from the decade. It's making a comeback thanks to fresh, new takes on the hemmed look. Styled with a structured blazer, the playful capri suddenly becomes office-ready, cinching together a professional silhouette. Worn over tights, the capri becomes an appropriate choice for autumn thanks to layered warmth. Amp up that '90s inspiration by wearing your capris with bracelet shoes (heels with a delicate ankle strap), another beloved piece from that era.

Nothing is cuter than a pair of Mary Janes, and the '90s knew it. These low-heeled beauties with their instep straps are essential for fall 2025 because they play well with everything. Style them with delicate socks and a plaid dress for a preppy look, or pair with jeans or trousers for an easy, walkable outfit. While these shoes were a big part of '90s fashion, they're really a timeless shoe choice, so you can't go wrong, especially in 2025.

While the '90s did have splashes of color — think colorful windbreakers and neon workout gear — there was also a powerful fashion movement that favored a pared-back style. This effortlessly cool street style has been reincarnated for fall 2025 because of its layer-friendly approach. A white button-down shirt is absolutely essential to nailing this. Wear it tucked or untucked, depending on the vibe of the look. Pair it with earthy trousers in olive green, brown, or black; another minimalist staple. A basic button-down also works beautifully with a satin midi skirt.

Sneakers were a huge part of '90s fashion. Of course, the chunky white sneaker has been dominating footwear trends for the last few years, but there's a clear '90s revival in alternative sneakers that are richer in color. Retro pairs with chocolate brown detailing work well with neutral outfits, adding a playful touch to the sharp minimalism of that era. Their low profile means that sneakers can really work with anything, from skirts and dresses to pleated slacks. This iconic streetwear staple makes any outfit ready to wear. 

For lovers of minimalism and chic street style, the perfect '90s handbag is undoubtedly a simple shoulder bag. Best in classic, neutral tones like cream, brown, olive, or black, a sleek shoulder bag with elongated straps means you have your hands free to run errands. The small body of the bag speaks to the simplicity of '90s style on a larger scale. These lightweight bags offer just enough space for essentials, but not much else, meaning you won't be bogged down by a catch-all tote. Throw your bag over a chic, navy blazer with a plain, cream skirt for ultimate styling. 

Oval sunglasses are the quintessential '90s accessory. Small shades have been trending hard for several years, but as of fall 2025, with icons like Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and Gwyneth Paltrow, little oval sunnies are the style to source. Whether your oval sunglasses are wireframed or tortoiseshell, with smoky lenses or burnt orange ones, this iconic shape of shades polishes off any look. Pair with a simple white t-shirt and jeans for the ultimate '90s casual look, or work them with a shift dress and blazer for a dressier occasion. 

The chocolate brown chunky heeled boot is a gorgeous reintroduction of '90s footwear for dressier occasions. In the '90s, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy stepped out in knee-high, brown heeled boots that she paired with a cream, knee-length pencil skirt and a black sweater. Recreate variations of this look for fall 2025 by styling chocolate brown boots with a denim skirt and denim jacket, creating a chic twist on the Canadian tuxedo. Style brown boots over tights or tuck jeans into them for the perfect fall footwear that's warm in tone and dressy enough to go with anything.