The ’90s were a simpler time for kids in America. Without smartphones, social media, and so much other technology, we spent our time hitting up Blockbuster to rent the latest movies, being obsessed with boy bands like ‘N Sync and the Backstreet Boys, and listening to our CD players. What a concept.
But while many remember this era as the good old days, it’s no secret that we still rocked some questionable fashion choices. Let’s revisit the ghosts of ’90s fashion past and take a look at some old trends that haven’t exactly aged well.
1. Ultra Low-Rise Jeans
Britney Spears may be famous for her low-rise jeans, but that doesn’t mean plenty of normal teens and twenty-somethings weren’t victimized by this denim trend.
Often paired with tiny crop tops, these pants sat so dangerously low on the hips that wearers risked wardrobe malfunctions. Not to mention, how is it comfortable having your entire midriff on display? Thanks, but no thanks: we’ll keep our high-waisted jeans in 2025.
2. Velour Tracksuits
No one wore the iconic Juicy Couture velour tracksuits quite like Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian. These matching sets were the ultimate Y2K getup, but in retrospect, they were also sort of a fashion disaster.
Sure, the plush fabric was comfy, yet the bedazzled logos across the backside made the tracksuits look a lot more tacky than timeless. Ugg boots and oversized sunglasses were just the cherry on top of this unfortunate outfit.
3. Blossom Hats
Touchstone Television
Blossom hats, named after the quirky lead character of the ’90s sitcom Blossom, became all the rage for some reason. They featured oversized brims, a floppy structure, and giant fabric flowers.
Maybe we were trying to add a playful or boho aspect to our looks. In reality, the hats seemed more like a craft project gone wrong and should never make a comeback.
4. Chokers
Chokers were the go-to jewelry accessory of the ’90s, intended to add an edgy or rebellious vibe to your appearance. Nowadays, they just toe an awkward line between goth and glam that looks uncomfortable.
It’s true that certain choker styles have made a resurgence in recent years, but (thankfully) not to the same scale as during the ’90s.
5. Bowl Cuts
Vinnie Zuffante/Getty Images
The bowl cut was an unfortunate hair trend that plagued so many ’90s kids. It was popularized by boy bands, child actors, and well-meaning parents who thought it was a cute and practical style. On the contrary, it was anything but flattering.
The harsh, straight-across shape literally resembled a bowl and rarely complemented anyone’s face. 2025 has seen some updated versions with more texture and layering, which is fine, but the OG ’90s bowl cut should stay a relic of the past.
6. Pedal Pushers
Urban Outfitters
Pedal pushers were the awkward middle ground between capris and shorts. These pants hit just below the knee and honestly did few favors for anyone.
In the ’90s, they were often paired with platform sandals or chunky sneakers and thought of as a sportier alternative to full-length pants. Instead, they created odd proportions and, in our opinion, deserved to go out of style.
7. Colored Sunglass Lenses
Do you remember when Reese Witherspoon starred as Elle Woods in Legally Blonde and wore black sunglasses with hot pink lenses? She might’ve seemed like the epitome of cool back then, but colored sunglasses aren’t all that popular today for a reason.
First of all, they distort our vision and literally make us see the world through rose-colored glasses (or whatever tint you choose). They also just don’t match with today’s more neutral-toned fashion trends and can come off kitschy.
8. Scrunchies
Last but certainly not least, we can’t forget about the quintessential ’90s hair accessory: scrunchies. They came in every color, fabric, and pattern imaginable, helping our high ponytails soar to even greater heights.
Scrunchies have since reentered the fashion scene, but both older and younger generations still have mixed opinions. Moreover, a lot of people just wear scrunchies on their wrists as an outfit accessory, which arguably defeats their purpose.
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