My favourite thing about the '90s was the major contrast between trends. On one end, this time in history was literally known as the 'grunge era,' with the clothing and accessories to match. On the other, '90s minimalism reigned supreme (à la Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy), and this juxtaposition made the decade unlike any other in terms of fashion. So, it's no wonder that a selection of '90s minimalist accessory trends have come back into the spotlight. Whilst they may have been trends at one point, it's clear their timelessness meant they wouldn't stay away for long.
I could happily discuss '90s trends all day, but there's something about the more minimalist pieces that draw my eye in. I often buy handbags or shoes without realising that their shapes or specific styles are largely reflective of this era. There's a reliability in the stable presence of a minimal accessory. They're safe investments that rarely feel dated, and they're pieces you can always turn back to when you feel burnt out on surfing the ever-rotating trend cycle.
The styles I've been spotting most frequently this season are simple strappy sandals, minimal sunglasses, chic claw clips, baguette and crescent bags and flatform sandals. Putting them all together, I see why they're back with vigour. Many of them are the basis of other trends we've seen before (looking at you, quiet luxury) and proof of the longevity that comes from simple forms.
So if your interest is piqued by '90s fashion, the following six accessory trends may be worth adding to your wardrobe.
These '90s Accessory Trends Are Back This Year
1. Crescent Bags
Style Notes: There were several '90s handbag trends that reached icon status, including the crescent bag. Its upturned shape and myriad colours and sizes made it so easy to work into a variety of outfits, and that holds true today, too. From more structured options to slouchier, ruched versions, it's a handbag anyone will enjoy carrying around.
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Compact, cute and perfectly packable for summer holidays
Croc print and pillowy materials fit into this era, too.
This hue trends every spring and summer.
A more rounded crescent shape if you like a modernised silhouette.
2. Platform Slides
Style Notes: If there was a '90s trend I wore most as a fashion-obsessed pre-teen, it was this one. The stretchy bands and thick soles were a statement but the simple shape and neutral colour make them acceptable for minimalists. I love how London-based content creator Liv Madeline updated this look for today, wearing them with a chic blazer and Bermuda shorts—something that'll likely become my summer uniform.
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These are top of the list for summer shoe purchases.
These come in 16 amazing colours.
The wedge sole is essentially a time machine back to the '90s and '00s. Wear these with cropped jeans or capris.
Pair these with a Fendi baguette bag for the ultimate '90s look.
3. Minimal Sunglasses
Style Notes: Minimal sunglasses were everywhere in the '90s, from oval shapes to metal-framed lenses. Celebrities like Halle Berry, Gwyneth Paltrow and Jennifer Aniston all wore them and it's no wonder they're back. Sleek sunnies never go out of style, and whilst thicker frames and large lenses often come in and out of trend, something that errs on the side of minimalism will never lose its appeal.
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Silver frames and different coloured lenses also were big amongst the fashion crowd.
Oval frames will always remain a classic sunnies shape.
The black lenses and metal frames combination is exceptionally '90s.
Another sleek shape that blends rectangles and ovals.
4. Simple Strappy Sandals
Style Notes: If they weren't chunky platforms, shoes also leant towards a minimalist construction, and we're seeing their resurgence. Thin-strapped sandals are already flooding my feed ahead of this summer, and it's a trend worth investing in. They go with everything and elevate every outfit. As Norwegian influencer Nnenna Echem shows, they pair perfectly with jeans and a white T-shirt. They're also an effortless shoe for summer wedding guests.
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Pair with a slip dress or jeans.
An elegant choice for weddings and summer fetes.
Perfect if you prefer a block heel. These come in seven other colours.
And a flat-soled option that abides by the tenets of nineties minimalism.
5. Baguette Bags
Style Notes: The sharp lines and oblong silhouette of a baguette bag make you instantly want to carry one around. Fendi released its original design in this shape back in 1997, and it's back in the spotlight this year. Whether you wear it with shorts and sandals or a little black dress, it works.
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This one comes in dark brown and khaki green.
A white handbag always feels so fitting for summer.
A classic from the original maker.
The gold hardware and buckles make this bag look like it time travelled here from the '90s.
6. Claw Clips
Style Notes: We can't reminisce about the '90s or analyse its returning trends without considering the humble claw clip. Its construction may be simple, but it does serious work when twisted into hair. It's breezy and a staple in any minimalist's hair accessory collection, whether you opt for silver, gold, pastel acrylic or tortoiseshell.
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A classic pattern that looks pretty in all hair colours.
A chic set for creating all your favourite '90s hairstyles.
A chic option if you want to add the slightest pop of colour to your outfit.
I couldn't resist this joyful claw clip. It feels like a grown-up version of butterfly clips.