Style Guide: Iconic 90s Outfits That You Can Still Wear Today

These era-defining fits have proven to be quite timeless after all.

Allysa Gatchalian
THREAD by ZALORA

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90s outfits
Photo: Touchstone Pictures

Looking back, the 90s feel like a golden era — especially in the worlds of fashion and film. Gifting us with some of the most fashionable characters in movie history, it’s no surprise that many of today’s style trends came directly from the decade’s best-loved films.

Serving as a constant source of inspiration for fashion designers and trendsetters alike, there’s no doubt that 90s nostalgia is on a high point. So, as our love for all things vintage continues to grow, we’re rounding up some of the best 90s outfits from the OG fashionistas themselves.

Cher Clueless
Photo: Paramount Pictures

Clueless (1995)

Since we’re talking about 90s movie fashion, there’s probably no better way to start than with Cher Horowitz’s quintessential schoolgirl outfit from the coming-of-age classic film Clueless.

While Cher does sport a lot of plaid throughout the movie, most will agree that this yellow blazer and skirt set she selected in the opening scene was — and still remains to be — one of the most influential outfits as far as cinema fashion goes.

Steal Cher’s preppy-chic look:

Romy And Michele’s High School Reunion
Photo: Touchstone Pictures

Romy And Michele’s High School Reunion (1997)

If Romy and Michele were to open their own boutique in 2021, we’re almost certain that stocks would be selling out faster than Kylie’s Lip Kits did back in 2015.

Known for their bold color choices, peppy prints, and love for anything cropped, it’s as if the duo predicted today’s top trends themselves. Offbeat and undeniably nostalgic, their over-the-top wardrobe still remains to be every fashion girl’s dream after all these years.

Recreate Romy and Michele’s one-of-a-kind style:

Pretty Woman Movie
Photo: Touchstone Pictures

Pretty Woman (1990)

Easily one of the most memorable rom-coms of the decade, Pretty Woman also deserves major points for Vivian Ward’s superlative style.

As we’re huge fans of all Vivian’s looks, it was extremely difficult for us to choose a favorite. But, we simply had to include this white midi-dress she wore in the iconic ‘big mistake’ scene on our list. Everything from the poofy sleeves, off-white hue, and the accessories she dons scream timeless sophistication, yet still looks incredibly fresh when worn at the present day.

Take fashion cues from Vivian:

Pulp Fiction
Photo: Miramax

Pulp Fiction (1994)

While we all know Mia Wallace for her crisp white button-down and cropped black trousers, we also love how she effortlessly juxtaposes tailored pieces with more grungy elements.

Though our climate may not be the most suitable for layering a trench coat over a crushed velvet blazer as she does in the movie, you can still achieve a similar effect with a tricot vest and cropped jacket of the same hue.

Shop Mia’s wardrobe essentials:

The Matrix Trinity
Photo: Warner Bros.

The Matrix (1999)

Despite premiering more than two decades ago, Trinity’s head-to-toe black ensemble and slim-framed sunglasses still seem to give off a futuristic vibe when worn today. After all, they were designed to fit the sci-fi film’s boundary-pushing and progressive themes.

For a more wearable take on her signature vinyl suit, opt for similar silhouettes and textures like this halter ribbed top and faux leather pants. Don’t forget to finish off your Matrix-inspired look with a pair of geometric sunnies too!

Channel your inner Trinity:

Can’t get enough of the 90s? Head over to ZALORA today for more fashion must-haves inspired by the decade.

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Resident beauty and fashion enthusiast, k-drama junkie, and full-time dog parent.