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4 Bad '90s Trends We Never Expected To Be Cool Again

May 5, 2010 by Marisa Siegel
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Fashion faux-pas from the ’90s makes us cringe–yet some of the big trends are here to stay–at least for awhile. And dare we say, some of them are kind of growing on us.  Here’s our blast from the past trends to take note of, so you don’t make those same styling mistakes this time around.

Combat Boots

In the early 90’s, Claire Danes played a perpetually angsty and grunge-loving adolescent on My So Called Life.  Today, much less angsty Emma Roberts looks more casual-chic than punk rock concert ready–but the combat boots are back.

"Nicole Richie in fashion attire""Michael Kors fashion item"

This Aqua blazer ($68.60, down from $98 captures the look perfectly. What do you think about Bess’ ($460) take on Doc Martens by adding blinging gold grommets to the tops of combat boots?

Shoulder Pads

"Alloy fashion item""Delia's fringe bag"

Looking back on Dynasty we can now understand that it wasn’t exactly the pinnacle of high fashion.  Joan Collins went all out with a colorblock jumpsuit, but we much prefer Kim Kardashian’s glittering party girl look.

"Traditional Dutch girl in clothing"

Strong shoulders (whether shoulder pads are added or not) are everywhere. This Alice + Olivia sequin dress ($485)  is no exception.

Acid Wash Jeans

"Alexa Chung posing for a photo""Joie clogs footwear"

The power of acid wash jeans was once so strong that even the guys on Beverly Hills 90210 wore them.  We’ve stopped idolizing Dylan since, but the allure of the acid wash has not faded.  Take a cue from Nicole Richie and pair them with hippy chic pieces inspired by the 1960s, so people don’t mistake you for a member of the Peach Pit clique.

"Jar item showcasing lifestyle""Shutterstock image related to fashion"

These Michael Michael Kors skinny jeans ($44.90, down from $99.50)are great if you want to test, not invest in the acid wash trend.  Add a  floral crocheted blouse, like this one from Alloy ($34.90-$36.90).

"Megelín editorial pick image"

To finish it off in true Richie style, add a suede fringe bag from Delia’s ($49.50) mixes decades to create a decidedly modern outfit.

Wooden Clogs

"Laifen Autocurl lifestyle image""Olivela editorial image"

You get the idea: who could have ever predicted that wooden clogs would make a comeback?  We truly hate to say this, but Alexa Chung looks pretty darn cool in head to clog Chanel, making us sufficiently jealous of her look.

"Nordstrom's Clear The Rack sale announcement"

We think that Joie’s black snakeskin clogs ($335)  may be even better than Karl Lagerfeld’s Chanel clogs.

Find out about all the latest trends with our guides to spring fashion, including flat shoes and rain boots.  Check out all the best online deals with our list of this week’s online sample sales.

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