Return of the Grunge: A 1990s Style Revamped

Marc Jacobs on the left with two models wearing his clothing from the grunge inspired collection in 1992, The Fashion spot.

The 1990s was decade full of fashion. From the vibrant sexiness of Gianni Versace to the contemporary casual of Ralph Lauren. The 90s was full of different aspects of fashion. In this era there was particular style that captured the youths eye. This style was called Grunge.

When & Why

From left to right: Vogue December 1992 by Steve Meisel, Grunge band Nirvana, last is the model of 90s Kate Moss

Even though "Grunge" was actually considered a genre of music, the clothing and the fashion became very popular. It became so popular, that a famous designer, Marc Jacobs, who worked under Perry Ellis, had a "Grunge" inspired collection. This brought grunge to glam, or maybe to people who were not fans grunge, but still liked the clothing.

Perry Ellis Spring 1993 Runway Fashion Show

What Now?

From left to right: Female rapper Iggy Azalea for Nylon Magazine, Vogue Spain 2011, Vogue November 2011

Grunge is now back in the modern era. From the streets to the runway and from casual people to celebrities. It was a trend that was considered very unfashionable, but now has permanent place in the high fashion world. Every high fashion magazine and every runway in the past couple years has added an grunge inspired look.

From left to right:3.1 Phillip Lim Spring 2013 Runway was a flashback to the 90s, Elle Magazine mixed Goth and grunge in their Fall issue in 2012

What are the type of looks?

From left to right: the tough and hard look is masculine, but feminine at the same time, Elle magazine Italy November 2012

There are actually different looks in grunge. There is the hard and tough masculine style of grunge as well as a soft and tough looking type of grunge for girls. There is also the preppy style of grunge, this was made famous by Anna Sui which is now popular among students.

From left to right: The preppy grunge style created by Anna Sui in 1993, Forever 21's "Back-To-School" campaign for 2014

What are the key points?

Both photos are Italy Elle Magazine, these photos show key points of how to wear grunge

One of the main points of grunge is plaid or tartan. Plaid definitely helps the look, that anyone is going for, to become grunge. Wearing the plaid pattern as a shirt or around the waist is a style of grunge. Next points are jeans. They can be washed out jeans, torn jeans, jean shorts and even jean jackets. Another option are floral prints. If someone were to wear bright floral prints or light pastel colors they would have to pair it with a leather jacket or combat boots, such as Doc Martens.

The soft and hard concept is shown these photos. These are both considered modern grunge. Right photo is Elle Sweden 2013

Is it here to stay?

From left to right: Elle Italy 2012, Glamour Magazine France May 2012

The points of grunge have an urban and youthful style that appeals to teenagers and adults.  It is a style that both males and females can be stylish in. Now that it is the fall season, grunge or now "neo" grunge will be seen every where. Grunge is a style that may never go away.