These '90s Wedding Dress Trends Are Hot Again

Think '90s fashion is a thing of the past? As if!

Courtesy of Katharine Polk; Courtesy of Savannah Miller; Courtesy of BHLDN

Updated Oct 03, 2021

The looks that defined the era of "Runaway Bride," "My Best Friend's Wedding" and "The Wedding Singer" are back and better than ever. The reason? The fashion of the '90s offers up a heavy dose of nostalgia and is undeniably classic (ahem, square necklines and slip dresses). Below, we break down five wedding fashion trends that prove something old can also be something new—plus editor-approved gowns you can shop now.

28 Sexy Valentine's Day Lingerie Looks for Every Style

Puff Sleeves

In the early '90s, the maximalist vibe of the '80s (read: layered skirts, cathedral-length trains, ornate appliqués, ruffles and frills) remained in the form of puff sleeves—the bigger, the better. Today, toned-down versions of this trend like bishop sleeves, Juliet sleeves and detachable puff sleeves are all the rage again. To pull off this romantic look in a modern way, opt for a streamlined silhouette and let the puff sleeves do the talking.

28 Sexy Valentine's Day Lingerie Looks for Every Style

Katharine Polk Gwen dress, $3,150, KatharinePolk.com

Brandon Maxwell Cold-shoulder twill and crepe gown, $4,195, NET-A-PORTER.com

Danielle Frankel Rosalie dress, $9,890, DanielleFrankel.com

Slip Dresses

As the maximalism of the '80s faded, '90s wedding dress trends became increasingly sophisticated and sexy. Influenced by Carolyn Bessette Kennedy's iconic wedding style, '90s brides were all about the sleek and chic style of the slip dress. As the name implies, this slinky silhouette resembles a slip, has thin straps and is made of delicate silk or lace fabric. The effortlessly glamorous style is currently experiencing a bridal fashion revival, both as a wedding dress and bridesmaid dress option. Style this lingerie-inspired look with strappy heels and delicate jewelry (think: thin, layered necklaces). Have your heart set on a more voluminous gown for your ceremony? A slip dress is also a gorgeous option for other wedding-related events, li ke your rehearsal dinner.

Savannah Miller Lucia dress, Inquire for pricing, SavannahMiller.com

Lulus Infinite Glory white maxidress, $88, Lulus.com

Danielle Frankel Charlie dress, $3,990, DanielleFrankelStudio.com

Square Necklines

This geometric neckline highlights the decollete and is a true throwback. Although square necklines were popular in the '90s, they actually date all the way back to the Renaissance era and were also in fashion during the Regency Era ("Bridgerton" anyone?). In addition to their elegant old world feel, square necklines work for pretty much every style of wedding dress. Go classic with heavy satin, romantic with floral lace or modern with a clean crepe gown.

Alex Perry Eliza satin-crepe gown, $2,700, NET-A-PORTER.com

Viktor&Rolf Draped Bow A-line gown, Inquire for pricing, Viktor-Rolf.com

Wtoo by Watters Lizbeth Gown, $1,695, BHLDN.com

Halter Necklines

While the supermodel Iman famously wore a halter top dress to wed David Bowie 30 years ago, her stunning Herve Leger gown wouldn't look out of place on the Bridal Fashion Week runways today. One of the signature looks of the '90s, halter wedding dresses have made a major comeback in recent years. And what's not to love? This streamlined neckline flatters the neck and shoulders and works for almost every body type. Pair a halter wedding dress with an updo, chignon or low ponytail and—for an extra glam touch—shoulder duster earrings.

GALVAN Pandora stain halterneck dress, $1,295, NET-A-PORTER.com

Lulus Tell Me Everything white beaded sequin halter maxi dress, $118, Lulus.com

BHLDN Montreal crepe maxi dress, $220, BHLDN.com

Mini Dresses

In reaction to the über-formal wedding style that defined the '80s, the brides of the '90s broke with tradition by opting for shorter, more casual dresses. Supermodel Cindy Crawford was one of the OG low-key brides when she wed Rande Gerbe in an unfussy John Galliano mini lace shift dress in 1998. Now, bridal mini dresses come in every fabric, formality and style. Our favorite thing about a short wedding dress? The opportunity to show off a killer pair of shoes.