Raise your hand if, when you were younger, you wanted to be just like Rachel Green when you grew up. I still do, if I'm honest, and I'm exactly the age she was in the pilot episode of Friends. Besides her quick wit and signature hairdo, Rachel's outfits alone deemed her worthy of icon status. Her dress sense captured exactly what was great about 1990s fashion. Think simple, flattering silhouettes and a moody palette of chocolate brown and black punctuated with brighter neutrals.
If you hadn't heard, '90s minimalism has been solidified as one of the biggest autumn/winter trends by designer labels like Bottega Veneta and Etro, so now is the perfect time to look to our fashion-savvy sitcom friend for style guidance. And dresses feel like an obvious place to start, given that Ralph Lauren's finest protégé was partial to a form-fitting midi.
I love the addition of the pendant belt here.
There are a few telltale signs that a dress has been influenced by this era. First, there's the neckline. If you spot spaghetti straps, a cowl-neck or a racerback, let the feelings of nostalgia commence. A dress that hits the 1990s minimalism mark will be light on the details and embellishments (think of the iconic slip dress), so the less fussy, the better. That being said, check prints, velvet and chiffon ruffles have a place here, too.
But why describe the aesthetic when I can show you exactly what I mean? I've picked out the best '90s-inspired dresses you can buy now—scroll on to see and shop.
Shop '90s-Inspired Dresses
I would style this exactly as Rouje has, with matching calf-high boots and a mini shoulder bag.
This silhouette is incredibly flattering.
Wear with heels on nights out, or layer over a knit for a more relaxed look.
Now that's a classic '90s neckline.
Chuck on a longline coat when the cold weather hits.
We centred a whole article around this best-selling Ghost dress, which is available in five shades, by the way.
You could style this dress a million ways—I'd start with a cream turtleneck underneath.
Cut-outs were also popular in the 1990s.
This ribbed texture has been around for a while, and it's just as cool as ever.
& Other Stories has met all your dress needs this season. Seriously.
Another great layering piece.
This feels familiar but fresh because of the unique chain detailing.
Can you guess which '90s film icon this check-print dress reminds me of?
I couldn't do a '90s dress list without including a mesh option.
Party season, I'm ready for you.
Simple, effective and super affordable.
If one fabric could define the decade in question, it would be velvet.
Reformation's silk dresses drape so beautifully.
Just add strappy heels and an oversized blazer.
When it comes to LBDs, focus on a sleek silhouette and minimal detailing.
This versatile mini is currently in my basket.
Not everyone would consider a mohair dress with cut-outs minimalistic, but I do.
Carry it through the seasons with a few styling tricks.
If you want a dress that will hug your figure perfectly, Skims is your best friend.
I'm all over rich brown shades this autumn and winter.
Next up: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week
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