The '90s Strap Dress Trend Making the Rounds on Instagram

last updated 29 July 2020

While it's by no means the most important gauge when it comes to your wardrobe, there is something to be said for the "Instagram litmus test," i.e., posting something on the platform in order to get a general consensus. As a shopping editor, I find it surprisingly useful. Of course, we don't all want to be walking around in outfits that have only exceeded 100 likes on social media, but sometimes it can be helpful to get a sense of what is having a moment and which trends our readers are drawing toward. Perhaps unsurprisingly considering the current fascination with the frock, the last post on my feed that received the most love was a shot of a '90s floral strap dress that I nabbed at a charity shop last year.

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Me in my vintage '90s maxi dress.

Characterised by a figure-skimming cut and strappy neckline, this summer staple harks back to the minimalist styles championed by the likes of Rachel and Phoebe from Friends. It's also one of those trends that tip-toe the line between fancy and casual, a factor that can be determined by both the fabric and the way in which you style it. This year's iterations come either in textural cotton and linen fabrics or silken satins, but the great thing is that both can easily be grounded with chunky sandals or elevated with strappy heels.

One particular linen ASOS style (as seen on Naaomi Ross) saw serious success this June with its flattering mint-green shade and clean-lined silhouette. It might be close to selling out, but it's also available in white—you can thank us later. Personally, I've been wearing a floral midi from Ghost on repeat this summer with my Birkenstocks and a chain necklace. It's a serious wardrobe game changer. So if you want to inject some '90s appeal into your summer wardrobe, scroll down to see and shop the trend.