Fall fashion looks that bring back the ’90s and vintage vibes

There’s something magical about fall—the crisp air, the golden leaves, and the chance to reinvent your wardrobe. This year, fashion takes a trip down memory lane, blending vintage-inspired details with the bold simplicity of ’90s style. The result? A chic, timeless aesthetic that feels familiar yet entirely fresh.

Whether you’re dressing up your everyday look or building a cozy capsule wardrobe, these six fall fashion trends prove that what’s old is stylish again. Check out my 90s/ vintage fashion mesh reel and several other mom style mash-ups on my Instagram.

1. Acrylic Hair Clips: The ’90s Accessory Revival

Few accessories define ’90s fashion like acrylic claw clips. Once a staple in every It-girl’s hair arsenal—think Jennifer Aniston and Alicia Silverstone—they’re officially back in rotation this fall.

The modern twist? Oversized tortoiseshell designs, pearlescent hues, and marble patterns that elevate your look from casual to effortlessly chic. Whether you’re running errands or heading to brunch, an acrylic clip adds instant polish to your style.

Pair one with a cozy sweater, gold hoops, and natural makeup for the perfect nostalgic look.

Shop my favorite clips below:

2. Carpet Bags & Chain Bags: Vintage Charm Meets Everyday Glam

Say hello to granny chic, a mix of antique patterns and sophisticated silhouettes. MCW Handmade Handbags make the most beautiful carpet bags, inspired by Victorian-era travel totes. These bags bring bohemian romance to modern streetwear. Their tapestry-style fabrics and floral embroidery make every outfit feel unique.

If you lean more toward polished minimalism, vintage chain bags are your go-to. A nod to the ’90s Chanel aesthetic, these structured bags with gold or brass chains add instant elegance to denim, blazers, and midi dresses alike.

I have all of these in my personal collection:

3. Layered Necklaces: The New Old Classic

There’s something undeniably timeless about layered necklaces. This trend bridges the gap between 1970s boho femininity and 1990s minimalist chic. Whether you prefer dainty gold chains, lockets, or textured charms, layering creates dimension and depth in any outfit.

Try combining a choker, a mid-length pendant, and a long chain for an elegant stacked look. These pieces pair beautifully with both turtlenecks and silk blouses, adding just the right amount of shine.

Pro Tip: Stella Henri’s delicate layering chains are a great choice for mixing and matching different lengths and textures.

4. Tall Suede Boots & Chunky Velvet Heels: Texture Takes Over

When it comes to fall footwear, this season is all about luxurious texture. Tall suede boots, a 70s-inspired favorite, are the perfect match for midi skirts, boho dresses, and even tailored shorts. They’re soft, warm, and oh-so-sophisticated.

For something with more edge, step into chunky velvet heels, a true ’90s callback to nightlife glam. Rich jewel tones like burgundy, sapphire, and emerald are especially trending this season, pairing effortlessly with neutral knits or denim.

These are two new additions to my closet this fall:

5. Dark, Moody Nails: Fall’s Coolest Throwback

Soft pinks have had their moment—now it’s time for deep, moody nail shades to shine. Inspired by ’90s grunge and gothic glam, dark hues like espresso, navy, plum, and black cherry are dominating nail trends this fall.

This aesthetic recalls the effortlessly cool energy of Winona Ryder and Drew Barrymore in the ’90s—bold yet sophisticated. For the perfect fall manicure, try DND’s “Cherry Mocha” or OPI’s “Lincoln Park After Dark”.

Pair your dark nails with soft, feminine fabrics like silk and cashmere for the ultimate style contrast.

6. Vintage Earrings: Glamour from Eras Past

If you’re looking to add a touch of sparkle this fall, vintage earrings are your best friend. Whether it’s the geometric charm of 1920s art deco pieces or the bold gold hoops of the 1980s, these accessories prove that timeless style never fades.

Vintage-inspired earrings instantly elevate your look and add character. Oversized gold hoops echo the minimalist energy of the ’90s, while chandelier designs bring old Hollywood elegance. You can even find incredible one-of-a-kind treasures at your local antique shop—sometimes for under $10!

The Beauty of Nostalgia

This fall, it’s clear that the best trends are the ones that return. The ’90s and classic vintage eras have joined forces to create a season filled with warmth, texture, and timeless femininity.

So, as you pull out your sweaters and scarves, remember that true style doesn’t have an expiration date—it just evolves. From acrylic hair clips to carpet bags and layered gold jewelry, this fall is your chance to celebrate the past while stepping confidently into the present.

Because fashion, much like fall itself, is all about transformation—and there’s no better time to reinvent your look with a little nostalgia and a lot of confidence.