Whether you’re going for the grunge look, hip-hop style, or a minimalist look, this DIY guide will help you recreate 90s outfits at home and be the life of the party.
90s Theme Party Outfits: DIY Ideas To Recreate the Look at Home
The 1990s. A decade that needs little introduction, particularly when it comes to fashion. It was an era of unapologetic self-expression, with iconic styles that continue to influence fashion. The rise of hip-hop fashion, with baggy jeans, crop tops and logomania, was made famous by Aaliyah, TLC, and Missy Elliott. Meanwhile, the preppy look, inspired by Princess Diana and the film Clueless, brought plaid skirts, knee-high socks and varsity jackets into the mainstream.
These trends were not just fashion statements but cultural movements that shaped the era. Its resurgence is undeniable, with fashion designers and brands reinterpreting iconic trends. Moreover, the emphasis on sustainability and reducing waste has led many to revisit the decade’s DIY ethos, embracing thrift shopping, upcycling, and repurposing garments.
If you want to be a standout at a 90s-themed party, check this guide as we have covered outfit ideas inspired by pop culture icons of the era.
Key Takeaway
- 90s outfit ideas inspired by pop culture figures of the era.
- 90s hair styling and fashion accessories to complete the look.
- where you can buy 90s fashion on a budget.
90s look inspired by pop culture icons
The Spice Girls
The Spice Girls signature look was a mix of sporty, glamorous, and rebellious fashion. Sporty Spice (Mel C) was about athletic wear, seen in tracksuits, crop tops, and sneakers. Baby Spice (Emma Bunton) embraced a feminine style with pastel mini dresses, platform shoes, and fluffy coats. Scary Spice (Mel B) made a mix of animal prints and bold colours a staple. Ginger Spice (Geri Halliwell) was famous for her Union Jack dress, platform boots and a red wig. And Posh Spice (Victoria Beckham) kept things sleek with the little black dress, tailored suits and high heels.
Accessories are a fun and easy way to complete the Spice Girls-inspired look. Create a choker using velvet ribbons and charms. Add sequinned hair clips, sunglasses, or phone cases with rhinestones for a pop of glitter. For a Baby Spice-inspired look, decorate scrunchies with pastel fabrics or lace, while Scary Spice fans can wear animal print bracelets. You can transform a mini backpack by painting patterns or adding iron-on patches. Don’t forget to finish each look with bold lipstick!
The Spice Girls signature look was a mix of sporty, glamorous, and rebellious fashion. Image: Spice Girls
DIY TIP: Customise a denim jacket by sewing on patches such as band logos or fun slogans. For a true ’90s Spice Girls vibe, add sequinned or colourful patches, and throw in rhinestones. Or recreate the iconic Union Jack dress using fabric paint to design the red and white cross pattern. Let each layer dry completely before adding details, and finish with a clear fabric sealant. For a Baby Spice touch, tie your hair in high pigtails with scrunchies, or for Scary Spice vibes, try styling space buns with a leopard-print outfit.
Kurt Cobain
The 1990s grunge aesthetic was influenced by Kurt Cobain, the frontman of Nirvana. His wardrobe was a mix of thrifted, oversized and layered pieces that defied mainstream fashion. Essentials for a Cobain-inspired outfit include worn-out flannel shirts, distressed denim, baggy cardigans and graphic band tees, often layered for a laidback, dishevelled look. Ripped jeans or corduroy pants paired with scuffed-up Converse or combat boots complete the grunge look. Cobain’s fashion was a reflection of his anti-establishment attitude, favouring comfort and individuality over polished style.
The 1990s grunge aesthetic was influenced by Kurt Cobain. Image: Spin
Kurt Cobain-inspired round, white-framed sunglasses, referred to as “clout goggles,” were a standout look of the era. Knitted hats and slouchy beanies added to his laid-back aesthetic. Leather belts with simple buckles, mismatched or layered necklaces, and finger rings add a rebellious touch. Worn-out backpacks, preferably vintage or military-style, were a staple, adding to the rugged, practical feel of his fashion. The key to accessorising in Cobain style is to keep it understated, opting for pieces that look naturally aged rather than polished.
DIY Tip: Achieving Kurt Cobain’s grunge look through DIY methods is all about embracing imperfection and making clothing feel lived-in. Distress a pair of jeans by using scissors or sandpaper to create natural rips and frayed edges. For an authentic thrifted feel, take an old flannel or oversized cardigan and lightly bleach it to give it a worn-out appearance. Band tees can be customised by cutting off the sleeves, stretching out the fabric, or adding DIY patches for a rough look. Layering is key, so mix different textures like knitwear, denim, and cotton for a relaxed, effortless vibe. To finish the look, scuff up your sneakers or boots using sandpaper or dirt to give them a worn-out aesthetic.
Courtney Love
American singer-songwriter, musician, actress, and artist Courtney Love’s style embodied the rebellious, glamorous and edgy spirit of the era, combining femininity with a punk-inspired attitude. Her grunge style, referred to as “kinderwhore”, featured babydoll dresses, slip dresses, and lace-trimmed nightgowns, contrasted with edgy elements like ripped fishnet tights, oversized cardigans and scuffed Mary Jane shoes. Smudged dark eyeliner and smeared red lipstick added to the raw aesthetic. Love’s style was a critique of traditional femininity and an embrace of rebellious self-expression, making it an iconic ’90s look.
Accessories played a crucial role in Courtney Love’s grunge-glam aesthetic. Mary Janes, platform heels, and worn-in combat boots gave her delicate dresses a rebellious edge. Chokers, pearl necklaces, and cross pendants added a vintage touch, often layered for an effortless look. Messy, undone hair was adorned with simple accessories like mini bows or tiaras, reinforcing the contrast between innocence and rebellion. Love also popularised thrifted fur coats and oversized sunglasses, which added a touch of rockstar drama to her disheveled appearance. The key to accessorising like Courtney Love is to mix classic feminine pieces with rough, edgy details.
DIY Tips: Recreating Courtney Love’s grunge-inspired style through DIY methods is all about embracing a distressed yet glamorous aesthetic. Transform a slip dress or babydoll dress with lace trims, distressing the fabric, or layering it with an oversized cardigan. Rip or ladder fishnet tights for a worn-in look, and smudge red lipstick slightly outside the lip line for that signature grunge makeup style. Customise accessories by layering old pearl necklaces or adding charms to chokers for a vintage-meets-punk feel. For an authentic touch, distress a pair of Mary Janes or combat boots using sandpaper or scuff them slightly for a lived-in effect. Mixing delicate and rough elements will help capture Courtney Love’s iconic 90s aesthetic.
Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam’s style was deeply rooted in the grunge movement, reflecting a rugged, laid-back, and effortlessly cool aesthetic. The band members, especially frontman Eddie Vedder, popularised a wardrobe that was both functional and rebellious, rejecting the polished looks of mainstream fashion. Essential pieces for a Pearl Jam-inspired outfit include oversized flannel shirts, worn-out band tees, and baggy cargo or ripped jeans. Loose-fitting shorts, paired with long-sleeve thermals or unbuttoned plaid shirts, were a staple. The overall look was casual and slightly unkempt, embodying the raw energy of grunge music.
Pearl Jam’s style was deeply rooted in the grunge movement
Accessories in a Pearl Jam-inspired ‘90s look were minimal but functional, reinforcing the band’s no-frills approach to fashion. Beanies, baseball caps, and bucket hats were frequently worn, often in neutral or earth tones. Worn-out leather belts and vintage chain wallets added a subtle rebellious edge. Layered necklaces, cord bracelets, and woven wristbands reflect a bohemian and free-spirited vibe. Round or rectangular sunglasses with dark lenses help achieve that rockstar aesthetic. Footwear leaned toward practical choices like well-worn Converse, combat boots, or hiking boots, emphasising a no-nonsense, anti-fashion attitude. The key to accessorising in Pearl Jam’s grunge style is to keep it simple and practical, favouring pieces that look naturally worn rather than styled.
DIY Tips: Achieving a Pearl Jam-inspired grunge look through DIY methods is all about making clothes feel lived-in and authentic. Distress jeans or cargo pants using sandpaper and scissors to create frayed edges and rips for a worn-out effect. Oversized flannel shirts can be faded by lightly bleaching them for a vintage feel. Customise a plain band tee by cutting off the sleeves, stretching the fabric, or distressing the edges to give it a rough, DIY vibe. To complete the look, scuff up a pair of Converse or combat boots with sandpaper or dirt to make them appear well-worn. The key is to embrace imperfections and create an effortlessly rugged, anti-fashion aesthetic that stays true to the grunge spirit.
Britney Spears
Britney Spears combined youthful, playful styles with a touch of edgy glamour. Her signature styles spanned schoolgirl-inspired outfits to sporty athleisure and red-carpet-ready crop tops with low-rise pants. A Britney-inspired ‘90s wardrobe includes baby tees, crop tops, and fitted tank tops paired with low-rise jeans or pleated mini skirts. Shiny metallic or leather pieces, such as her iconic red jumpsuit from Oops!… I Did It Again, were part of her bold fashion choices. Denim-on-denim looks, like her famous matching outfit with Justin Timberlake, captured the essence of late-’90s pop culture. Her fashion was all about confidence, making everyday outfits look effortlessly cool and fun.
Britney Spears combined youthful styles with a touch of edgy glamour. Image: grammy.com
Accessories played a huge role in Britney’s ‘90s look. Platform sneakers, knee-high boots, and strappy heels were key footwear choices. Statement belts, from rhinestone-encrusted to thick leather styles, were paired with low-rise jeans. Butterfly clips, scrunchies and tiny sunglasses added a playful touch, while hoop earrings and layered chokers evoke pop star glam. Small handbags, particularly shoulder bags in pastel colours or metallic finishes, completed her look.
DIY Tips: Crop a baby tee or tank top by cutting it just above the waist for a flirty look. Distress a pair of low-rise jeans by adding rhinestone embellishments or fraying the edges for a Y2K-inspired touch. Decorate hair clips or scrunchies with glitter or sequins to mimic Britney’s playful hairstyles. For a sporty vibe, transform a plain tracksuit by adding stripes or patches using fabric paint. To complete the look, personalise a small shoulder bag with charms, keychains, or DIY rhinestone appliqués for a custom pop-star-worthy accessory.
Gwyneth Paltrow
Gwyneth Paltrow’s signature looks featured neutral tones, monochrome outfits and structured silhouettes. Essential pieces include slip dresses, straight-leg trousers, fitted blazers, and tank tops. She frequently wore minimalist evening gowns with clean lines, opting for satin or silk fabrics that emphasised sophistication. Casual wear included white button-down shirts paired with tailored pants or denim. Her fashion choices were all about timeless elegance, making even the simplest outfits look chic.
Gwyneth Paltrow’s fashion choices were all about timeless elegance. Image: Buena Vista Pictures, via Everett Collection
Delicate gold or silver jewellery, such as thin chain necklaces, small hoop earrings, and elegant bracelets, were key elements of her style. She often carried structured handbags in neutral shades, favouring classic leather. When it came to footwear, she wore sleek kitten heels, strappy sandals, and minimalist loafers. A key element of her look was natural beauty—often featuring minimal makeup and center-parted hair.
DIY Tips: Achieving a Gwyneth Paltrow-inspired ‘90s look through DIY fashion focuses on clean lines. Tailor an oversized blazer by taking in the waist for a more structured fit, or thrift a slip dress and adjust the length for a custom silhouette. For a polished casual look, take a white button-down shirt and tuck it into high-waist trousers or jeans for a chic ensemble. Customise minimalist jewellery by layering thin gold or silver chains and adding small charms for a personalised touch. To achieve her sleek beauty aesthetic, opt for a DIY hair treatment using a lightweight serum to create her smooth, center-parted look.
90s fashion on a budget
Thrift stores are treasure troves for authentic 90s pieces. With racks of apparel from that era, thrifting offers the opportunity to uncover vintage gems like oversized flannels, denim jackets and platform shoes—all at affordable prices. This has led to increased demand for upcycling items that otherwise wind up in landfills.
90s Theme Party Outfits: DIY Ideas To Recreate the Look at Home
Patagonia Worn Wear is ideal for pre-owned apparel and equipment; swap.com is an inexpensive secondhand marketplace; and millions of people offer preloved items on dePop. Tradesy was founded by women for women and sells antique clothes and even wedding gowns. thredUP enables you to shop for your favorite products in a cost-effective manner You’ll discover anything from retro skirts to vintage blouses from the listed brands at the world’s largest online consignment and thrift store!
Online marketplaces like eBay, Depop and Etsy are invaluable resources for sourcing vintage items. These platforms connect buyers with sellers specialising in rare items, limited-editions and unique accessories. PS Shopping at Etsy is a fabulous way to assist small companies and local boutiques and shipping is carbon-neutral. eBay, the forerunner of internet marketplaces, is a vintage clothes treasure.
Online marketplaces like eBay, Depop and Etsy are invaluable resources for sourcing vintage items.
Upcycling old clothes is a creative way to tap into 90s style. DIY hacks like tie-dyeing, distressing cargo pants and denim, cropping t-shirts or adding patches and appliqués can transform existing wardrobe pieces into customised retro looks—all the while reducing textile waste and promoting sustainable fashion practices. The growing awareness of fast fashion’s environmental impact has led consumers to seek vintage and pre-owned apparel. 90s revival aligns with this trend, promoting reuse and celebrating the longevity of old garments.
Conclusion
The beauty of 90s fashion lies in its mix-and-match appeal. Whether it’s upcycling old denim into distressed jeans, revamping oversized blazers or layering slip dresses over tees, there’s room for creativity. Channel the energy of 90s pop culture and music icons by incorporating velvet chokers, combat boots and bold patterns into your wardrobe. Experiment, have fun and make the trends your own! We’d love to see your take on 90s fashion! Recreate your favourite looks and share it with us on social media.
Experiment, have fun and make the 90s trends your own with DIY fashion.
Jasmeen Dugal is Associate Editor at FashionABC, contributing her insights on fashion, technology, and sustainability. She brings with herself more than two decades of editorial experience, working for national newspapers and luxury magazines in India.
Jasmeen Dugal has worked with exchange4media as a senior writer contributing articles on the country’s advertising and marketing movements, and then with Condenast India as Net Editor where she helmed Vogue India’s official website in terms of design, layout and daily content. Besides this, she is also an entrepreneur running her own luxury portal, Explosivefashion, which highlights the latest in luxury fashion and hospitality.
