Fall Picks Part 2 - 90's Minimalism

I don't know about you, but I'm getting pretty tired of the 80's inspired looks that's been going strong now for a while. Back in May, I thought the 90's were back, but I was more along the early 90210 vein. Strangely enough, Alexander Wang was recently quoted that Saved by the Bell is among his style inspirations.

Thank goodness Fall 2009 is not about channelling Kelly Kapowski or Zack Morris. Instead, designers like Stella McCartney, Jil Sander, Helmut Lang, Alexander Wang, and of course, the master of this era, Calvin Klein, have taken to a clean and slim silhouette for the season.

We've already seen grunge grace the runways, but the minimalistic 90's look is about streamlined sheaths, slim pants and jackets, and tower-high heels. Sharp tailoring is key, and palettes are kept to simple shades with no patterns. To punch up the look, I suggest pairing accessories in bold colours with clean, almost masculine feel to mix things up.

Above: Jil Sander White Dress and Red Polished Leather Clutch
Below: Jil Sander Beige Sheath and Elizabeth and James Jolie T-Strap Pumps

Ashley Olsen has been wearing this trend for quite some time now, and pretty much anything the Olsen twins touch turn into a massive following. I expect no less here.

Above: Elizabeth and James Laurent Shirt and Bop Basics Cashmere Tube Scarf

Above: Roland Mouret Navy Coat and Alexander Wang Cut-Out Jersey Top and Skirt

Alexander Wang, as I alluded to in my Part 1 post on the biker look, has taken to this look whole-heartedly. Cut-outs, another key look for Fall, is rolled into the clean cut looks above and below.

Above: Alexander Wang Rivet Trimmed Wool Jacket

In my teen years during the 90's, I thought this look was really bland and boring. Now wizened, I know it's anything but.

How, and will you, wear the 90's? How do you suggest keeping it current?

Above: Alice + Olivia Exposed Back Minidress

Images courtesy of Shopbop, Net-A-Porter, Helmut Lang, Style.com

As if! The 90's are back

You knew this was coming right? The "new" style crop tops (bra tops, Wang or Schouler style) making their way down various RTW runways (maybe it can work with high waisted pants, maybe?), the grungy flannel shirts and ripped jean shorts (Kate Moss never grew out of them and neither did I), and denim everything. All of these were ominous signs that the days of Fresh Prince, C+C Music Factory, and Hammertime are back. Yes, we're talking early 90's.

House of Holland led the way with their Spring 2009 RTW line, which was filled with black and white polka-dots and loud florals that hit the catwalks of every high school in America, Beverly Hills or not. And now WhoWhatWear has done this fabulous shoot paying homage to our favourite teens from that glamorous zipcode, 90210. When I first saw the above group shot, I actually thought for a second that was the real Brenda Walsh!




I love the way they have interpreted the 90's, and I wish i still have those black Doc Marten boots that I lived in to pair with my new old school Nirvana tee.

Still don't believe me? L.A Gear is back (the intro video on their site is KILLER). Together with Sportie LA, they have relaunched the colourful line of high tops available exclusively through Sportie LA. I want this pair!

For a giggle, check out this list of The Worst 90's Trends - I was guilty on 4/5 accounts.

What were your fave and most regretted fashion trends of the 90's? I am still diggin ripped denim, babydolls, and floral dresses with vests. BUM Equipment, Blossom hats, and baby backpacks must be amongst my worst crimes.

Now, gotta download me some Straight Up.