Trends: 90s edition
Let’s step into a time capsule and travel back to a time when modeling, fashion, and runways were done right.
Was the 90s actually minimalistic?
The 90s runway scene was nothing short of iconic, a dazzling mix of bold designs, supermodel glamour, and unforgettable fashion moments. Designers like Gianni Versace, Calvin Klein, and Roberto Cavalli dominated the catwalk with pieces that embodied both opulence and minimalism, creating a diverse yet cohesive aesthetic that defined the decade. It was an era of supermodels like Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, and Linda Evangelista strutting down the runway in everything from sleek slip dresses to vibrant, daring prints. The 90s were all about contrasts—minimalist silhouettes met maximalist details, while grunge and streetwear mingled with haute couture, resulting in a fashion era that continues to inspire today’s trends.
90s Runway Royalty: The Models Who Ruled the Catwalk (and Our Hearts)
I couldn’t help but wonder—were the 90s runways a celebration of fashion, or just a homage to the models who ruled them? Naomi, with her unstoppable strut, made you believe in superhuman confidence. Kate Moss, the queen of effortless cool, gave us permission to embrace our flaws with an insouciant shrug. And who could forget Linda Evangelista, who famously wouldn’t wake up for less than $10,000 a day? These women weren’t just walking the runway—they were redefining it, each with their own iconic stamp. In a decade of contrasts, they taught us that being unforgettable wasn’t just about what you wore, but how you owned it.
How the 90s Runway Went on a Heroin Chic Bender
Heroin chic—now that was the controversial look of the 90s runway. Messy, edgy, and unapologetically rebellious, it turned the polished, glamorous supermodel image on its head. Thin, almost waif-like figures with pale skin, dark circles, and a raw, undone vibe became the aesthetic that dominated fashion. Kate Moss was the poster girl for this look, and suddenly, "imperfection" was in. Designers like Calvin Klein embraced this gritty aesthetic, stripping back the glitz for something grungier, almost haunting. It was a big "wow" moment that shook up the fashion world, making runway shows feel more underground, like art installations rather than glamorous affairs. This aesthetic wasn’t just a trend—it was a full rebellion against the excess of the 80s, raw and real, capturing a darker side of beauty that the 90s embraced.
Sculpting Fashion’s Best-Kept Secret, One Dress at a Time
Let’s talk about the underrated genius that is Azzedine Alaïa. While names like Versace and Lagerfeld often steal the spotlight, Alaïa quietly sculpted his own fashion empire with precision and artistry. Known as the “King of Cling,” Alaïa’s designs were unapologetically body-conscious, celebrating the female form in a way that felt both powerful and sensual. His dresses were like second skin, meticulously cut to perfection. But what made him stand out? He wasn’t about flash or hype—Alaïa let his work speak for itself, often opting out of the traditional fashion week schedule. He had no interest in trends; his pieces were timeless. His client list included icons like Grace Jones and Naomi Campbell, but the real magic of Alaïa was his devotion to the craft. It’s no wonder that his designs still feel fresh today, proving that true style is never out of season.
