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Updated Oct 14, 2024These '90s Wedding Dress Trends Are Hot Again
Think '90s fashion is a thing of the past? As if!
Photos Courtesy of Cinq, Amsale, Vivienne Westwood | Getty,Design by Tiana Crispino
If you didn't hear the news, nostalgia is in, and the looks that once defined the era of "Runaway Bride", "My Best Friend's Wedding" and "Friends" are now back and better than ever. If you're a reminiscent bride looking for a way to incorporate your favorite childhood trends into your wedding day look, there's never been a better time to shop for a '90s wedding dress. Many esteemed bridal brands, like Danielle Frankel, Vivienne Westwood, and KYHA have already proven that they'll be there for you on your search for the perfect '90s-inspired gown, offering plenty of looks inspired by the era of grunge.
It seemed that this year's New York Bridal Fashion Week was a nod to the '90s, as many designers showcased designs that heavily leaned into turn-of-the-century charm. Kyha Scott, founder and creative director of KYHA, is one designer in particular who had the decade in mind when creating her newest collection. She explains that there's a sense of, "understated cool and relaxed minimalism that sees the 90s influencing bridal trends again." According to Scott, we should expect plenty of halter necks, spaghetti straps, satin fabrications and relaxed fits to feature in bridal design in the coming year.
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For to-be-weds looking to stay one step ahead of the trends, the good news is that the greatest hits of the '90s have already made their way back into the wedding world. Keep reading to discover 6 of our favorite '90s wedding dress trends that are hot again, plus shoppable options for each. We can guarantee you'll be totally buggin' when you catch a glimpse of these looks.
Why '90s Inspired Wedding Dresses Are Trending
They say that history repeats itself and we like to think that the same goes for fashion. Trend cycles may come and go, but there's no factor that dictates what's "in" quite like nostalgia does. From the return of bucket hats to baguette bags, it seems that '90s babies are feeling reminiscent of the good ol' days of their youth. And with younger Millennials and older Gen Z members now entering the average age bracket for marriage, you can bet they're taking their nostalgic trends along with them down the aisle. Puff sleeves, slip dresses, and micro minis, all once considered dated, are making a resurgence as beloved (and dare we say vintage) wedding styles. Whether you're on board the nostalgia train, or believe it should be out with the old and in with the new, one thing's for sure: We have to admire how committed '90s kids are to the revival, with film and flash wedding photography, disposable cameras and these six fashion trends making a full-blown comeback 30 years later.
What Are '90s Wedding Dress Styles?
According to Scott, what set '90s wedding dresses apart was their effortlessness. For brides hoping to capture that on their big day, there are a few key things to look for in regard to style.
Silhouettes: In contrast to its antecedent decade, the 90's were all about relaxed looks. To capture a more laid back vibe on your wedding day, Scott recommends opting for dresses that feature streamlined silhouettes and clean lines.
Necklines: From square necks to halters and everything in between, the '90s was certainly a time for experimenting with necklines. During this time, many of the same necklines that were popular in streetwear made their way into bridal design.
Sleeves: The puff sleeve trend was without a doubt one of the biggest moments in '90s fashion, but then again, so was no sleeves at all (we can thank Carrie Bradshaw for fostering the resurgence of tube tops). Thankfully, both sleeveless and puff sleeve designs lend themselves well within the bridal world.
Fabrics: Because of their ability to drape in a relaxed and natural way, high-shine fabrics such as satin and silk were ultra-popular in the '90s.
Off-Shoulder Necklines
The off-shoulder look may be one of the hottest trends in 2023, but did you know that the trend actually originated over 30 years ago? It's no mystery why it stuck around all these years. Off-shoulder necklines show off the collar bones and decollete for a look that's flattering (and just risqué enough). Like its music, the greatest hits of '90s fashion are the styles that never left. And speaking of hits, you may have heard that Britney Spears recently tied the knot in a custom off-shoulder gown by Donatella Versace.
Vivienne Westwood Cora Cocotte
You certainly won't be getting the cold shoulder in this stunning gown. With a flattering corset bodice and sweep train, plus the option to choose from three different fabrics, this dress would wow in the '90s just as much as it does today.
Size Range: Custom
Danielle Frankel Leona Gown
If there's any gown that perfectly embodies the sense of understated elegance that the grunge era was all about, it's this one. Its intricate tulle layering and slouchy off-shoulder fit give it a look that's alluring, yet effortless.
Size Range: 0 - 24
KYHA Renew Sadie Gown
At the intersection of vintage and modern, you'll find this unique gown. A pleated satin neckline, fit and flare silhouette and chapel-length train are just a few of the gorgeous details that make it a standout pick.
Size Range: 0 - 11
Puff Sleeves
The '90s became a standalone era for fashion, thanks to many unique trends making their debut at the time. Still, that didn't stop a few beloved '80's trends from carrying over into the decade. Puff sleeves are one style that held the spotlight, but became more refined moving into the new era. Today, subtle puff sleeves are back and better than ever. Whether they're on casual sundresses or elegant wedding gowns, we love this trend and believe it's earned itself the right to be considered timeless.
Danielle Frankel Rosalie Gown
Speaking of timeless: The puff-sleeved empire waist dresses that were popular in the '90s actually date all the way back to the Regency Era. Whether you're looking for a gown reminiscent of the grunge era, or one to fit the regencycore aesthetic, this pick, with soft hand-twisted organza fabric, is guaranteed to take you way back.
Size Range: 0 - 14
Reev Bridal Paloma & Opal
Switch up your look throughout the day with this 2-in-1 option. On its own, the square-neck satin sheath gown offers a sleek and modern look, but pair it with the puff-sleeve tulle overlay and you'll get a touch of vintage charm you're sure to love.
Size Range: Custom
Cinq Isolde Gown
You'll feel like royalty in this stunning puff-sleeved gown. With a structured satin bodice and dramatic silk tulle sleeves that extend into gloves, this dress offers all the best of the 90's, in a look that's anything but dated.
Size Range: Custom
Slip Dresses
We have the '90s to thank for giving us the iconic model-off-duty style, which had people everywhere eager to recreate the effortlessly chic street style looks of fashion it-girls like Naomi Campbell and Kate Moss. The aesthetic was (and still is) defined by casual pieces styled in an elevated way; Think oversized blazers, chunky sneakers, and of course slip dresses. Like many '90s fashion trends, the model-off-duty look made its way into the bridal world, and even today, slip dresses are one of the best ways to capture that fresh-off-the-runway look when walking down the aisle
Amsale Amala Gown
From the 90's till now, classic slip dresses like this one have been a go-to for minimalist brides everywhere. We love that this option is made from soft stretch crepe—plus, it can easily be dressed up or down so you can wear it for special occasions after your wedding.
Size Range: Custom
Show Me Your Mumu Verona Cowl Dress Ivory Luxe Satin
If you're looking for a simple wedding dress that doesn't sacrifice on style, this satin slip dress is calling your name. With a flattering cowl neck and breathable midi length, it's no mystery why slip dresses like this have stood the test of time.
Size Range: XXS - 3XL
NEWHITE Bridal Fortune Dress
For an elevated take on a classic style, consider this open-back organza slip dress. The oversized bow and dramatic train make maximum statement against an otherwise minimalist look.
Size Range: 0 - 12
Mini Dresses
They say the more the merrier, but when it came to 1990's wedding dresses, the opposite sentiment was often true. Mini dresses had a major moment in the decade, particularly for brides. Following the tenure of big and bold '80s dresses, many brides, like the iconic Cindy Crawford, embraced the idea that less (fabric) is more. Today, the trend is back on the rise, with celebrities like Kourtney Kardashian at the forefront of its comeback. Kourney sported a one-of-a-kind silk lace and satin mini dress with a custom embroidered veil at her Italian destination wedding.
Reformation Zenni Dress Ivory
You don't need glitz and glam to make a statement, and this sexy, understated mini dress proves that. Throw on your favorite pair of kitten heels and you've got yourself a look that's perfect for a civil ceremony or courthouse wedding.
Size Range: 0 - 24
For Love & Lemons Etta Mini Dress
With puff sleeves, a square neckline, and a mini length, this dress is practically a '90s wedding dress dream. This pick can easily be dressed up or down, making it ideal for all your pre wedding festivities.
Size Range: XXS - XL
J.Ing White Floral Jacquard Ruched Corset Detail Mini Dress
Whether you're looking for something fun and festive to wear for a Vegas elopement, or to your bachelorette party, we love this vintage inspired jacquard mini dress. Complete the look with a short veil and an eye-catching pair of pumps.
Size Range: XS - XL
Square Necklines
When you think of '90s fashion, you might think of simple, understated looks. After the glitz and glam of the '80s, fashion saw a shift towards more toned-down looks that prioritizes cut and fit over flashy embellishments. Square necklines made their way into the scene as an elevated alternative to other more basic necklines. Today, square neck tops and dresses are one of the best ways to give your look a touch of '90s flair. Last year, Nicola Peltz stepped down the aisle in a nostalgia-inducing, custom Valentino Haute Couture gown with a square neck and a chic column skirt with a long train.
Jenny Yoo Elliott Gown
The '90s had it right when they gave us sweet and simple square necklines like this one. We love this figure-flattering fit and flare gown for brides looking for a classic look.
Size Range: 0 - 18
Lulus Lovingly Yours White Mesh Long Sleeve Maxi Dress
Iconic bolero style tops made their debut in the '90s, but now in 2023 they're having a major revival. We love this square neck gown, featuring stretch crepe fabric and sheer bolero sleeves, for a winter wedding.
Size Range: XS - XL
From royal weddings to the red carpet, halter neck gowns have been a part of some of the most iconic pop culture moments of all time—and we're not just talking Marilyn Monroe. After their rise in popularity in the '90s, halter neck gowns earned their place as one of the most popular wedding dress styles to date. Even the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, showed off her shoulders with a custom Stella McCartney halter neck gown for her royal wedding reception in 2018.
Harriette Gordon Blanca Gown
This 100% silk gown is guaranteed to make a statement for your nuptials. The structured bodice features bustier-style boning and an ultra-flattering square neck, while the skirt boasts a long, flowing train and sexy side slit.
Size Range: 2 - 18
Halter Necklines
From royal weddings to the red carpet, halter neck gowns have been a part of some of the most iconic pop culture moments of all time—and we're not just talking Marilyn Monroe. After their rise in popularity in the '90s, halter neck gowns earned their place as one of the most popular wedding dress styles to date. Even the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, showed off her shoulders with a custom Stella McCartney halter neck gown for her royal wedding reception in 2018.
Michelle Mason Halter Tie Neck Backless Gown
Get ready to bare it all in this backless halterneck gown. Made from pure silk charmeuse, this pick features long ties at the neck that make a statement against its risqué open back. With 10 different colors to choose from, this dress is the perfect pick for brides or bridesmaids.
Size Range: 0 - 12
BHLDN Ruby Twist Halter Satin Gown
This is one champagne-colored wedding dress we'd like to raise a toast to. The twist halter neck offers a modern take on a classic '90s look and frankly, we're obsessed.
Size Range: 0 - 16
DB Studio Plunging Halter Satin A-Line Wedding Dress
Halter tops may have played a major role in '90s fashion, but their popularity dates all the way back to the '50s following Marilyn Monroe's iconic "flying skirt" moment. With this stunning A-line dress, you can capture the look that's defined decades for your big day.
Size Range: 0 - 14
