15 Forgotten ’90s Fashion Accessories That Were All the Rage
The ’90s were packed with bold fashion accessories that once felt essential but have mostly faded from daily life.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 5 min read
Fashion in the 1990s had a style all its own, marked by trends that were popular among teens and adults alike. Accessories played a big role in completing the look, from plastic chokers to tiny sunglasses. Many of these items were considered cool at the time, but are rarely seen today outside of throwback events or vintage shops.
1. Slap Bracelets
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Slap bracelets were made of thin metal wrapped in colorful fabric or plastic. You straightened them out and slapped them on your wrist, where they curled into place. They were popular with kids but were often banned in schools for being distracting or breaking. Over time, they disappeared from stores and playgrounds alike.
2. Plastic Chokers
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These stretchy, tattoo-style chokers sat tightly around the neck and came in black or neon colors. They were worn by teens and often sold in multipacks at mall kiosks. As fashion shifted toward minimalist jewelry, the plastic choker lost its appeal. Today, they’re mostly worn as part of retro or costume looks.
3. Bucket Hats
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Bucket hats, made from cotton or denim, were worn for both style and sun protection. They were often seen in music videos and skate culture. While once considered a casual staple, they became less popular by the early 2000s. Some versions have returned in recent years, but not to their original popularity.
4. Tiny Sunglasses
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Small, narrow sunglasses with colored lenses were a ’90s trend, especially in youth and pop culture. They were more about style than UV protection. Eventually, larger and more functional sunglasses replaced them. Today, they are occasionally worn for nostalgic fashion statements.
5. Mood Rings
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Mood rings claimed to change color based on your emotional state, using heat-sensitive materials. They were often chunky and came with a color chart. People wore them for fun, not accuracy. Their popularity faded as digital gadgets replaced novelty jewelry.
6. Butterfly Hair Clips
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These small plastic clips, shaped like butterflies, held strands of hair in place. They came in clear pastels and were often worn in rows across the scalp. As hairstyles changed, people moved on to simpler clips and bands. Now, butterfly clips are mostly associated with childhood photos or costume parties.
7. Chain Wallets
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Attached to a metal chain, these wallets were clipped to your belt loop and were especially common in alternative or skater styles. They were originally designed for security and style. Over time, they became less practical and more tied to specific subcultures. Today, they are rare outside of niche fashion scenes.
8. Beaded Name Necklaces
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These DIY-style necklaces featured colorful beads spelling out names or messages. They were often homemade or bought at accessory stores in malls. As trends moved toward metal and minimalist jewelry, beaded necklaces faded away. They are now more common in kids’ crafts than adult fashion.
9. Bandanas as Headbands
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Bandanas were folded and tied around the forehead or hair as an accessory, not just for function. Popular with musicians and in casual streetwear, they came in various prints and colors. The look declined as headbands and hats replaced them. Some styles still use them, but the trend is no longer widespread.
10. Platform Flip-Flops
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These sandals had thick foam soles and were worn with casual outfits. They added height without the discomfort of heels. By the 2000s, their chunky design fell out of favor. Now, standard flat flip-flops have taken their place in everyday wear.
11. BFF Lockets
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Best friend necklaces came in two halves, often shaped like hearts or puzzle pieces. Each friend wore one half as a sign of loyalty. They were sold in sets and considered a meaningful gift. Over time, simpler friendship bracelets became more common.
12. Velcro Wallets
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Usually made from nylon, Velcro wallets made a loud sound when opened and were especially popular with kids and teens. They were durable and came in bold prints. As people aged out of them and moved toward leather or digital wallets, Velcro styles declined. Now they are mostly sold in children’s sections.
13. Stick-On Body Jewels
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Tiny adhesive jewels were worn on the face or around the eyes, often during festivals or parties. They added sparkle without piercing or permanent decoration. While fun at the time, they were often uncomfortable or short-lived. Eventually, they were replaced by longer-lasting cosmetic options.
14. Oversized Scrunchies
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Scrunchies were made of fabric-covered elastic and worn in high ponytails or buns. In the ’90s, they came in bright colors and even velvet or satin versions. They later became seen as outdated or childish. Though some versions have come back, the original oversized ones are no longer a default hair accessory.
15. Glow-in-the-Dark Bracelets
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Often worn at night events or concerts, these flexible glow bracelets were activated by snapping or bending. They lasted a few hours before fading. They were cheap, fun, and widely used at parties. Today, they are used occasionally but not as part of daily fashion.