The fashion world is a cyclical one, and trends from decades past often make a comeback. One such trend that’s been experiencing a resurgence in recent years is grunge fashion. This edgy and rebellious style, which originated in the 1990s, has been popping up on runways and in streetwear collections around the world. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the comeback of grunge fashion and offer some tips on how to rock the look.
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A Brief History of Grunge Fashion
Grunge fashion emerged in the early 1990s as a subculture of the punk rock and alternative music scenes. It was characterized by a mix of thrifted, oversized clothing, heavy boots, and edgy accessories. Think ripped jeans, flannel shirts, and Doc Martens.
The grunge fashion movement was heavily influenced by the music of bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden, and it quickly gained popularity among young people who were drawn to its rebellious, anti-establishment vibe.
As the decade wore on, grunge fashion made its way from the underground music scene to the mainstream. It was seen on the runways of designers like Marc Jacobs and Anna Sui and was popularized by celebrities like Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love.
However, by the end of the 90s, the grunge trend had faded from the spotlight, replaced by other styles like preppy and minimalism.
The Comeback of Grunge Fashion
Fast forward to the 2010s, and grunge fashion is making a comeback. But why? One reason could be the rise of 90s nostalgia in pop culture. With TV shows like Stranger Things and movies like Captain Marvel featuring nods to the decade, it’s no surprise that fashion from that era is also having a moment.
Another reason could be the trend towards comfort and practicality in fashion. Oversized clothing and heavy boots are both hallmarks of grunge fashion, and they also happen to be incredibly comfortable and functional.
Whatever the reason, grunge fashion is once again a trend to watch. And the good news is, it’s a look that’s easy to pull off.
How to Rock the Grunge Look
Embrace Oversized Clothing
One of the defining features of grunge fashion is the use of oversized clothing. Think baggy t-shirts, oversized flannel shirts, and loose-fitting jeans. Not only is this look comfortable and practical, but it also adds to the overall edgy and laid-back vibe of grunge fashion.
To avoid looking frumpy or shapeless, be sure to balance out your oversized pieces with more fitted ones. For example, pair a baggy t-shirt with skinny jeans, or wear an oversized flannel shirt with a crop top underneath.
Add Some Edge with Heavy Boots
Another staple of grunge fashion is heavy boots. Think Doc Martens or combat boots. These chunky shoes add a touch of toughness to any outfit and are perfect for stomping around town.
Pair your boots with ripped jeans or a mini skirt and tights for a classic grunge look. You can also try wearing them with a flowy dress or skirt for a more feminine take on the trend.
With Stride Wise’s diverse range of heavy boots, you can effortlessly incorporate the grunge aesthetic into your wardrobe, creating edgy and stylish ensembles.
Layer Up with Flannel Shirts
When it comes to grunge fashion, you can never have too much flannel. This classic patterned shirt is a staple of the grunge look and can be worn in a variety of ways.
Try tying a flannel shirt around your waist to add some color and texture to your outfit. You can also wear it as a jacket over a t-shirt or tank top for a more layered look. For a nod to the 90s, wear a crop top underneath your flannel shirt and leave it unbuttoned.
Ripped Jeans are a Must
No grunge outfit is complete without a pair of ripped jeans. These distressed denim pants are the perfect mix of edgy and casual and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.
Pair your ripped jeans with a band t-shirt and heavy boots for a classic grunge look. Or, dress them up with a blazer and heels for a more polished take on the trend.
Layer with Denim
In addition to flannel, denim is another staple fabric of grunge fashion. Layer a denim jacket or vest over a t-shirt and pair it with ripped jeans for a classic grunge look. You can also add a denim skirt or shorts for a more feminine touch.
Experiment with Makeup
Grunge makeup is all about looking effortlessly cool with a touch of rebellion. Think dark eyeliner, smudged eye shadow, and bold lipstick. Don’t be afraid to experiment with bold colors and dramatic looks to really make a statement.
Mix Vintage and New Pieces
One of the best things about grunge fashion is that it’s all about mixing and matching. Don’t be afraid to incorporate vintage pieces into your outfit, like a thrifted band t-shirt or baddie streetwear outfits. You can also mix in new pieces for a more modern twist.
Embrace the DIY Mentality
Grunge fashion is all about being a little rough around the edges. Consider adding some DIY touches to your outfit, like cutting up an old t-shirt or distressing your own jeans. This not only adds a personal touch to your outfit, but it’s also a nod to the punk rock attitude of grunge fashion.
Add Some Edge with Accessories
Accessories are key to completing any grunge outfit. Look for pieces with an edgy, rock-and-roll vibe like studded belts, chokers, and chunky silver jewelry.
Beanie hats are another great accessory to add to your grunge look. Not only do they keep you warm in cooler weather, but they also add a touch of grunge to any outfit.
Final Thoughts
Grunge fashion may have originated in the 90s, but it’s a trend that’s here to stay. Whether you’re going for an edgy, punk rock look or a more laid-back, casual vibe, there are endless ways to incorporate grunge fashion into your wardrobe.
Remember to keep it simple and comfortable with oversized clothing and heavy boots, and don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures. With a little bit of creativity and a lot of attitudes, you can rock the grunge look like a pro.
