While the '90s gave us countless celebrity outfits made infamous by their boldness and creativity—Liz Hurley in the Versace safety pin dress, Naomi Campbell's thigh-high cobalt blue socks—not all of them are easy to replicate for everyday wear. But if you dig through the archives, you'll discover plenty of understated A-lister looks that don't just shine quietly in the context of the decade, but also fit into 2024's fashion landscape.
With a new, warmer season to dress for, I've looked to five ’90s trendsetters for guidance. The era's aesthetic continues to inspire modern collections, and it's easy to see why: amidst the grunge accessories and daring runway looks, the style was defined by simple silhouettes and elevated basics.
From Kate Moss's timeless outfit formula to SJP's linen-trouser styling, these looks perfectly show the lasting appeal of ’90s fashion.
See 5 '90s Celeb Outfits I'm Copying This Summer:
1. Kate Moss: Tank Top + Jeans
Style Notes: Kate Moss is famous for transforming simple wardrobe staples into It-pieces. Looking at this effortless outfit, I'm suddenly convinced a tank top and jeans are the hottest buys of the summer.
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Arket makes the best basics.
Wear these day in, day out.
Style with jeans, dresses, mini skirts, linen trousers...
This has a cool, ‘90s-esque feel.
2. Tyra Banks: Yellow Dress + Metallic Heels
Style Notes: Trends really are cyclical, because this pale yellow dress could have been pulled from a 2024 runway. Tyra has styled it for the red carpet with metallic heels, but you could easily swap them for flats or espadrilles.
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I wasn't sure the yellow trend was for me until I saw this dress.
Pearl jewellery feels so summery—and what's more ’90s than a choker?
So much fun.
3. Sarah Jessica Parker: Tube Top + Linen Trousers
Style Notes: Rewatching Sex and the City has made me appreciate Carrie Bradshaw's style all over again, but Sarah Jessica Parker's off-screen ’90s looks were also on-point.
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This set looks so comfy.
White linen trousers have become a summer must-have.
The Row consistently delivers beautiful shoes.
4. Claudia Schiffer: Floral Dress + Espadrilles
Style Notes: If I didn't know better, I'd think this photo was taken yesterday. Nothing about Claudia Schiffer's outfit feels dated—in fact, I've already spotted some very similar summer looks on Instagram.
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Reformation should be your first port of call when seeking a floral dress.
A bestseller every year, and for good reason.
Big enough for a picnic blanket, book, snacks and a bottle of vino, perhaps?
5. Jennifer Lopez: Button-Front Dress + Mules
Style Notes: On a warm day, this is exactly the kind of dress that will keep you comfortable and looking cute. If it was good enough for J.Lo circa 1994, it's good enough for us.
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An easy dress to reach for at the weekend.
Gold hoops are an instant outfit booster.
From the tapered heel to the gently rounded toe to the soft brown shade, these mules are perfection.
Tan leather and canvas is such a classic combination.
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