You Heard It Here First—This '90s Trend Has Finally Returned

We're fresh out of runway season, and I spent the entirety of February with my eyes glued to the fashion shows to find out what trends I should expect to blow up next. As I watched the models sashay down the runway this season, there was one common theme that I hadn't seen in a while that I felt had an overwhelming presence—the choker.
Around 2016, I remember '90s fashion being at its peak, and everyone had a velvet choker around their neck at every social gathering I attended as a college student. Afterward, the trend disappeared for a while, but it's back and better than ever in 2022. Fashion designers have moved on from the velvet approach and are now using bold metals, pearls, and embellishments to create chokers that feel very right now.
I'm officially sold on "the new choker" and will be wearing it as much as possible to finish off every look I wear. Basically, I'm letting you in on a little shopping hack. In some cases, just $20 can take your outfit to the next level if you just add a choker. So what are you waiting for? Scroll through my picks that surely won't disappoint.
ON THE RUNWAY:
Chanel knows best, so seeing this dainty bow choker has me sold on the trend.
Get the look:
We've been seeing a reemergence of "bad girl" fashion—think heavy-duty leather, spikes, and chains. This choker is next on the list.
Get the look:
Bring on the Cuban links. Any bold silver moment is right up the alley of an on-trend fashion person.
Get the look:
I'm here for the summer vibes that go along with seashells and beading.
Get the look:
The aughts are calling, and they want their choker back.
Get the look:
ON MY INSTAGRAM FEED:
If Dua Lipa thinks it's cool, I think it's cool.
Get the look:
This trend made its way from the '90s to Y2K, and if you want to get that early 2000s look, try adding a heart.
Get the look:
Elegant and chic, I love this simple layered look.
Get the look:
Streetwear vibes will fit right in when you choose a choker that is loud and fun.
Get the look:
A little nameplate action always gets the best of me, and I'm loving this one right now.
Get the look:
Shop more chokers:
Up Next: Being the First to Wear These Jewelry Trends Will Guarantee It-Girl Status

Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.
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