14 Fashion Accessories from the Past That Were a Big Deal
These once-trendy fashion statements were all the rage — and we wore them like our lives depended on it.
- Chris Graciano
- 3 min read
Fashion fads come and go, but some accessories made such a splash that they’re ingrained into our memories. These items were more than just style. They were status symbols. Here’s a nostalgic look at the accessories that once ruled the school halls and dance floors.
1. Slap Bracelets
drcw on Flickr
A straight strip of metal wrapped in neon fabric that magically coiled around your wrist. They were banned in some schools for “safety reasons,” which made them even cooler.
2. Scrunchies
cottonbro studio on Pexels
Hair ties turned fashion must-haves; these puffy accessories came in every fabric imaginable. Velvet, satin, and glittered versions made matching outfits mandatory.
3. Mood Rings
Moodman001 on Wikimedia Commons
It supposedly shows your emotional state based on body heat — realistically, they just changed colors at random. Still, we stared at them like they were magical.
4. Jelly Shoes
Carol on Flickr
These translucent, often glittery sandals were adorable but blister-inducing. They squeaked when you walked and filled with sand at the beach.
5. Butterfly Clips
Daniil Kondrashin on Pexels
Tiny plastic clips shaped like butterflies, they fluttered through every ’90s girl’s hair. Worn in multiples, often paired with zigzag parts or twisty braids. They were cute, chaotic, and impossible to resist.
6. Chain Wallets
dualdflipflop on Flickr
Worn mostly by skaters and wannabe rebels, these were both practical and punk. The metal chain clanked as you walked, adding that “I don’t care” attitude.
7. Inflatable Backpacks
Tuấn Kiệt Jr. on Pexels
Yes, they were clear. Yes, they were squeaky. No, they didn’t hold much, but you looked so cool lugging one around.
8. Bandanas
cottonbro studio on Pexels
Folded and tied across the forehead, around the neck, or through belt loops, bandanas were everywhere. Rockstars made them edgy; kids made them trendy.
9. Livestrong Bracelets
Sherool on Wikimedia Commons
That bright yellow silicone band became a symbol of inspiration and social awareness. Soon, every cause had its own version. Your wrist became a billboard for what you believed in.
10. Choker Necklaces
Big Bag Films on Pexels
Black velvet, stretchy plastic, or ribbon — if it sat snug around your neck, you were in. Goths, grunge fans, and pop girls alike rocked them. They added instant edge to any look.
11. Ankle Bracelets (Anklets)
Los Muertos Crew on Pexels
Barefoot or in sandals, these little chains gave off a beachy, carefree vibe. Some had charms, others were braided or beaded.
12. Puka Shell Necklaces
Pietro Henricky on Pexels
Straight from the surfer scene, these white shell necklaces became a national trend. Guys and girls wore them with cargo shorts and sunburns.
13. Snapback Caps
Fuka jaz on Pexels
Flat-brimmed and worn backward or slightly tilted, these were a big deal in the ‘90s. Every kid had a favorite team hat, even if they didn’t follow sports.
14. Fingerless Gloves
Yaroslav Shuraev on Pexels
Madonna made them edgy; punk bands made them rebellious. They were more about attitude than warmth. Whether lacy or leather, they completed the look.