The 1990s: The Battle of Street Style and Minimalism

By Paige McKirahan

Taking the crown as one of my favorite decades, the 1990s signified a transition from ‘80s garish to new age minimalism. Though it is difficult to assess the history of a fashion that seems as if it is still in style, there are some trends that aren’t as prominent as they once were (thankfully). In a time were technology was advancing at a higher pace than ever, it truly seems as if this decade is the beginning of modern society. Yes, we have seen an influence from Hollywood for decades, but pop culture affected fashion in an entirely new way during this period with the rise of boy bands, pop-stars, R&B, and the supermodel era.

Though ‘90s clothing still found inspiration in ‘80s silhouettes, it was the first to instigate a ‘60s revival. Loose and oversized styles remained while being complimented by mini-skirts, mini dresses, and tighter styles. Space age aesthetics reigned as white tones, metallic, and references to cosmology were widely popularized. Similar to the ‘60s, this decade saw a division of styles come into circulation and the two main groups can be roughly separated into street style and elegant minimalism. The ladder included a colorless palette with silky, leathery, and velvety fabrics. Silhouettes were linear and simple boasting a relatively neutral color palette. Looking “rich” became cool again and the popularity of name brand designers was restored. They followed the shape of the ideal body which was, at the time, slim and toned. Need help visualizing this aesthetic? Reflect back to ‘90s Calvin Klein or Armani.

Kate Moss in ‘90s Calvin Klein

(photo credit to pinterest.com)

Street style was absolutely the opposite. Garnering influence from sports and hip hop, this was a trend that had attitude and a sense of boldness never seen before. MTV could be seen on every television and artist’s laid back styles gave copious amounts of inspiration for streetwear lovers. It was oversized, sporty, and relaxed, boasting large t-shirts with bold prints as the center of attention. Women also loved crop tops and loose fitting, high waisted jeans. Bomber jackets and boots, especially Timberlands, could be seen on rappers and young women alike. This style loved denim, and also used hints of leather and fleece to make oversized sweaters more comfortable than ever. The ‘90s were the first decade where sneakers came into their own, shooting themselves to high fashion status; Vans, Converse, Nikes (especially ones endorsed by athletes), Reeboks, Jordans, and New Balances could be seen on even those most well versed in fashion.

Tyra Banks ‘90s street style

(image credits to pinterest.com)

Preppy and grunge aesthetics reigned along with street style as movie stars and musicians were the driving force behind stylistic choices. Loved by affluent teenagers, preppy style was inspired by Clueless and Ivy League trends. Blazers, polos, all things Ralph Lauren, and plaid was worn everywhere; mini-skirts, crop tops, and everything in between could be seen covered in bright colors or with preppy motifs. Leisure style for this trend included denim overalls, which are loved by all style communities in this decade.

Grunge, on the other hand, finds in inspiration for its vision in bands like Nirvana and actress Drew Barrymore. Those that were interested in this style have similar taste to punk lovers of the ‘70s, but in a more subdued manner. These wardrobes included an assortment of jackets, sweaters, skirts, and footwear with a worn in look that made it hard for couture designers to have successful collections in this aesthetic.

Kurt Cobain in grunge style

(image credit to retrowaste.com)

Jewelry trends in the 90s moved away from the flashiness of the ‘80s and had a more minimal aesthetic. Swatch watches, slap bracelets, anklets, toe rings, and puka shell necklaces all were beloved accessories in this decade. Chokers were a youthful favorite that have been revived in the late 2010s, and scrunchies have made a comeback as bracelets at the beginning of this year! Tiny sunglasses in an endless supply of bright colors also moved away from the huge specs loved by the ‘80s and ‘70s.

Lucite was a popular material and was commonly used to make chunky rings in bright colors, among other jewelry styles. Celestial motifs, smiley faces, peace signs, and ying-yang icons adorned pieces and gave use a sense of ‘60s nostalgia. Name plate necklaces a la Carrie Bradshaw are just as trendy now as they were then along with hoop earrings of all sizes. This decade also loved the use of crystals and gems in their jewelry, especially if they were color changing depending on your mood.

A mere 20 years ago when all of these trends burst onto the scene, no one could have anticipated their overwhelming popularity in the 2010’s. If you’re loving this ‘90s revival as much as I am, head on over to our collections so you can own some hoops and chokers of your own!

Fashion Flashback: Rings by Morgan Watkins

Known as a symbol of love, rings are absolutely essential for any accessory lover’s arsenal. They’ve been around for thousands of years, featuring a plethora of various metals and precious stones while gracing the fingers of both royalty and everyday individuals alike. If you’ve ever wondered how this hand-tastic piece of jewelry came to fruition, keep on reading.

The oldest dated rings were discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs dating back as early as 2500 BC. Egyptians in particular greatly valued their accessories, as they were deeply attached to what each piece symbolized. Rings were used as talismans and amulets to ward off hostility and harm. Animals like snakes and scorpions were featured on rings, as they were creatures that evoked fear and protected the wearer. Even when met with death, Egyptians wore their rings and other accessories into the afterlife, hence why so many precious jewels have been discovered in tombs. It was around this time that the exchange of wedding rings was originated. Initially, Egyptians weaved hemp circles to create bands representing a link to immortal love. The fourth finger on your left hand has a vein that runs straight to the heart, which is why it is custom in most countries to wear your wedding ring on your left ring finger. Although women were often seen sporting rings commemorating their marriages long ago, men were rarely seen wearing wedding bands until WWI and WWII, where their rings served as a reminder of the love they had waiting for them back home.

(Image from http://www.grimballjewelers.com/chapel-hill-jewelry-blog/2016/6/9/the-long-history-of-en gagement-rings-and-wedding-rings)

Another symbol often associated with rings in particular is status and class. In early Rome, rings were first made from iron. Only noble individuals, like senators serving ambassadors of the Republic, could indulge in the privilege of wearing gold rings. And although the right to wear gold was eventually granted to all ancient Romans, only those with wealth and power could obtain such expensive goods. While royalty and nobles wore gold and silver adorned with precious jewels, poor commonfolk had to settle for pewter, bronze and copper.

(Image from https://www.peterszuhay.com/ads/ancient-roman-gold-ring-with-intaglio/)

The 16th and 17th centuries saw massive growth in the world of goldsmithing. Bands had become more intricately sculpted as art from the Renaissance era poured in, inspiring unique and fresh innovations. One ring in particular that was designed to be both utilitarian and beautiful was the hinged ring, which could be used to oh-so discreetly carry anything from intoxicating fragrances to deadly poisons. Rubies, emeralds and sapphire came into style as well, arranged in a gaggle of new shapes, sizes and cuts. But this era was not all colorful stones and fun bands. Plagues and deadly diseases served as constant reminders of impending and inescapable mortality, which led to the creation of rings inscribed with skulls, skeletons and caskets. These became known as memento mori rings, and would become a staple of the late 17th century.

(Image from https://talkingfashion.net/products/copy-of-floral-carved-cocktail-ring-vintage-plastic-jew elry)

After the 17th century ended on a low note, the 18th century brought with it a new breath of life in the world of rings. Styles were refined, bands became more delicate and brightly colored gems and stones were arranged in creative new ways, like floral bouquets and ribbons tied into bows. Bezel shapes were elongated and reimagined, leading to the birth of shapes like oval, navette, lozenge and octagonal.

(Image from http://charlottesayers.co.uk/items/18th-century-amethyst-and-diamond-basket-ring/)

The 19th and 20th centuries were also a fantastic representation of creativity in ring design. The diamond solitaire ring became a fan favorite style, as did birthstone engagement rings. These were popularized by none other than Queen Victoria, who wore her May birthstone, an emerald, on her ring finger. By the early to mid 20th century, art deco influenced stimulating and fresh designs. Fun geometric shapes adorned the fingers of those far and wide, serving as a bit of a distraction from the ever so somber Great Depression. Rings were made with cheaper materials but still served as a stylish and easy way for fashion fanatics to accessorize on a tight budget.

(Image from https://talkingfashion.net/products/copy-of-pink-purple-cocktail-ring-sparkling-crystal-rhin estones-adjustable-band-statement-bling-jewelry)

Presently, rings come in all shapes, materials and sizes and can be worn in a myriad of ways. Thankfully, you don’t have to be a Roman ruler to rock a set of sparkling gold rings these days.

(Image from https://talkingfashion.net/products/copy-of-green-jewel-ring-adjustable-bijoux-contempocostume-jewelry)

Bibliography “19th Century Engagement Rings & Trends.” Victor Barbone Jewelry. Victor Barbone Jewelry, 2017. Web.

Amelio-Ortiz, Cuini. “The History of the Ring– the Gold Rings of Ancient Egypt.” World of Gemstones. Rocks & Co, Web.

Cassell, Amy. “History of the Wedding Ring.” Destination Weddings & Honeymoons. Bonnier Corporation, 2012. Web.

“Rings: Ancient to Neoclassical.” Antique Jewelry University. Lang Antique & Estate Jewelry, Web.