18 Fashion Accessories from the ’90s You Totally Forgot
The ’90s were a wild time for fashion, and the accessories were just as bold, funky, and sometimes downright strange.
- Chris Graciano
- 4 min read
From butterfly clips to slap bracelets, the ’90s had a unique approach to accessorizing. Trends came and went in a flash, but these fashion add-ons were absolute must-haves. Here’s a nostalgic look at 18 iconic accessories that defined the decade.
1. Butterfly Hair Clips
Maria Clara on Pexels
Tiny, colorful butterfly clips were the ultimate hair accessories for creating playful, whimsical styles. Whether used to pin back bangs or scattered across a twisted updo, they added a pop of fun to any look.
2. Slap Bracelets
Anntinomy on Wikimedia Commons
These stiff, flat strips of metal wrapped in colorful fabric snap onto your wrist with a single motion. They were a schoolyard craze, often traded among friends or worn stacked up the arm.
3. Choker Necklaces
cottonbro studio on Pexels
The go-to accessory for any ’90s cool kid, chokers ranged from velvet bands to stretchy tattoo designs. They gave off a mix of edgy and chic, often paired with crop tops and mini skirts.
4. Mood Rings
Alkivar on Wikimedia Commons
These “magic” rings changed colors based on body temperature, supposedly revealing your mood. Everyone had one, convinced it could truly predict their emotions.
5. Bucket Hats
Ksenia Chernaya on Pexels
A staple in hip-hop fashion and streetwear, bucket hats were worn by everyone from LL Cool J to the cast of Clueless. They came in every fabric imaginable—denim, neon nylon, and even fuzzy textures.
6. Body Glitter
KoolShooters on Pexels
If you weren’t shimmering from head to toe, were you even dressing up? Roll-on body glitter was a must for school dances, concerts, and pretty much any special occasion.
7. Mini Backpacks
cottonbro studio on Pexels
Practical and stylish, mini backpacks replaced purses for many ’90s teens. They were often made of faux leather or nylon and came in bright colors or patterns.
8. Platform Sneakers
Godisable Jacob on Pexels
From Spice Girls-inspired chunky soles to funky neon designs, platform sneakers gave every outfit a boost—literally. They made you feel instantly taller and way cooler, even if walking in them felt like a challenge.
9. Jelly Sandals
SPERA.de Designerschuhe, Taschen und Accessoires on Wikimedia Commons
These plastic, see-through sandals were all the rage despite being notoriously uncomfortable. Available in glittery or neon shades, they made every outfit look a little more playful.
10. Tattoo Sleeves
Ron Lach on Pexels
If you weren’t old enough to get a real tattoo, stretchy tattoo sleeves were the next best thing. Made from sheer mesh, they created the illusion of inked-up arms without the lifelong commitment.
11. Yin-Yang Jewelry
AV RAW on Pexels
Symbolizing balance and harmony, yin-yang designs popped up on necklaces, earrings, and rings. They often came in black and white enamel with a slightly mystical vibe.
12. Wallet Chains
Reuben Strayer on Flickr
Grunge and punk-inspired, wallet chains were a must for anyone who wanted to look effortlessly cool. Whether you needed to secure your wallet or liked the aesthetic, they added an edge to any outfit.
13. Oversized Sunglasses
Pitt Rom on Pexels
Long before the 2000s made them a celebrity staple, oversized sunglasses were a must-have accessory in the ’90s. They came in funky, colorful frames and often had a slightly futuristic vibe.
14. Bandanas as Headbands
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Tied around the forehead or styled as a headband, bandanas were a unisex trend that pop stars and skaters alike embraced. They came in every color but were most commonly worn in classic paisley prints.
15. Clip-On Nose Rings
Wesley Rocha on Pexels
Clip-on nose rings offered a temporary rebellious look for those too young (or too scared) to get a real piercing. They were often tiny hoops that clung to the nostril, instantly giving off an edgy vibe.
16. Scrunchies
Temmuz Uzun on Pexels
No ponytail was complete without a big, fluffy scrunchie. These versatile hair staples come in velvet, neon, metallic, and even patterned designs.
17. Glow-in-the-Dark Accessories
Pagexrage on Wikimedia Commons
From bracelets to earrings to shoelaces, glow-in-the-dark fashion was a nighttime must-have. Perfect for sleepovers or school dances, they added a little extra fun when the lights went out.
18. Beaded Name Bracelets
Chinh Le Duc on Unsplash
Friendship bracelets got a personalized upgrade with white bead letter blocks spelling out names or cute words. Worn in stacks, they were a must-have for best friends, couples, or anyone looking to add some self-expression to their outfit.