Fashion

19 Essential '90s Themed T-Shirts And Accessories

by Alysse Dalessandro

When it comes to channeling looks from the past, many Millennials still seem to be clinging on to popular '90s styles, often filled with music video T-shirts and, of course, pop culture phrases. Personally, I'm still trying to figure out how "Bye Felicia" became so popular 20 years after the release of Friday, but hey.

It seems like more and more indie brands and artists are centering their work around '90s pop culture icons and memorable moments from the decade as well, with some larger brands like Target joining in on the fun, too. I can immediately identify with the excitement, obviously. When people see a garment or accessory that makes them want to tag all of their friends in an Instagram share as they remember what it was like to be a kid, I'm reminded of something that I loved growing up, too.

There's just something magical about reliving moments from television characters I once crushed on, recalling the lyrics I used to sing at the top of my lungs, lusting after outfits I prayed would one day be made in my size, and sneak watching MTV when my parents weren't home. These '90s-themed clothes and accessories connect us to our paths, proving that we aren't ready to let go of the decade just yet.

1. Only Happy When It Rains

Only Happy T-Shirt, $35, Domino Doll House

This plus size T-shirt is from Domino Dollhouse's summer Doll Parts collection, which pays tribute to '90s female musicians such as lead singer of Garbage COMMA Shirley Mansion, who famously first belted out this lyric 20 years ago.

2. Crush On You

"Crushin" Clutch, $47, Kashmir.VIII

Without question, Lil Kim's "Crush On You" video is one of my all-time favorites. The monochromatic styling is forever inspirational and the quote on this clutch by indie artist Kashmir Thompson is truly a perfect tribute.

3. Golden Girls

Golden Girls T-Shirt, $22, Etsy

The fact that multiple people alerted me to there being a hand-drawn T-shirt out there with the phrase, "Dorothy in the streets, Blanche in the sheets," shows that some humans really know me well. Plus, it's available up to a 3XL.

4. Como La Flor

Como La Flor T-Shirt, $26, Apple Sauced

I love this T-shirt — not only because I adore Selena, but because I have actually seen the outfit she's wearing in person at the Selena museum. Everything Selena said, wore, and sang will pretty much live on forever.

5. Clueless

As If, Movie Print, $13, Etsy

I would argue that the movie Clueless is near the top of the list of most referenced '90s movies ever. With so many iconic phrases, characters, and outfits, what's not to love? This print references both the plaid fashions and one of the film's most famous lines.

6. Baby Got Back

I Like Big Books Tote, $23, Tees In The Trap

I'm not sure that Sir Mix-a-Lot's "Baby Got Back" really ever went out of style. But now, thanks to Nicki Minaj, it's probably good for another 23 years.

7. Boy Meets World

You're The Shawn to My Cory Embroidery, $17, Etsy

I'm a big fan of celebrating friendships and on Boy Meets World, it was all about the Cory and Shawn bromance.

8. Doo Wop (That Thing)

Lauryn Hill "Gem" Tee, $22, Making All The Noise

I was already a huge fan of Lauryn Hill from her Fugees days and, of course, Sister Act 2. But when her first solo album came out in 1998, she set the bar high for artists to follow. The design on this tee features the iconic lyric from the album's debut single, "Doo Wop (That Thing)."

9. My So-Called Life

So Called Lyfe Ryder Dress, $59, Doll Skill

My So-Called Life was somehow only on for one season, yet it lives forever in our hearts. The show introduced us to Claire Danes and Jared Leto. But more importantly, to wearing a lot of mismatched clips and braids in our hair with oversized flannels and combat boots. This dress seems like something that Angela herself would wear.

10. Around The Way Girl

Bamboo Earrings, $25, Femenim Funk

This plus size graphic tee from indie fave Feminine Funk takes us back to the original LL Cool J, not the one that CBS seems to book every year to host the Grammy's.

11. I Ain't Mad At Cha

BabyBoy Earrings, $50, Honey B Gold

These laser-cut acrylic earrings pay tribute to one of the 1990's strongest voices gone too soon.

12. The Nanny

Yetta Tee, $23, Etsy

When it comes to outfit inspiration, I am all for Fran Fine. But when it comes to attitude inspiration, it's all about Grandma Yetta's swag.

13. Saved By The Bell

Funny Birthday Card — I'm So Excited, $3, Etsy

Who could forget Jessie Spano's iconic "I'm so excited" meltdown on Saved By The Bell ? Give this card to your favorite '90s-loving pal.

14. A Different World

Fake Hillman Grad, $30, Own your Blackness

For everyone who grew up wishing Hillman College wasn't fictional.

15. One In A Million

The "Babygirl" Aaliyah Chain Pendant, $18, Mix Wax

This Aaliyah pendant is appropriately a part of Miss Wax's "ICONS" collection.

16. Family Matters

Dough Matters Crewneck, $80, Served fresh Collection

This crewneck is a play on the family values of the '90s sitcom Family Matters. Maybe Urkel will finally have more swag than Stefan.

17. The Craft

The CRAFT Candle, $13, Etsy

I remember watching The Craft and being totally freaked out. I'm still afraid of losing my hair after swim practice. These candles are perfect for any budding teen witch.

18. Daria

Jane and Daria '90s Tattoo Choker with Charm, $12, Etsy

These tattoo style chokers were all the rage in the fourth grade for me, and now I keep seeing them everywhere. The Daria charms make that '90s nostalgia all the more real.

19. Living Single

Living Single Tribute Tee, $25, Etsy

This is my very own '90s inspired design. If the Living Single theme song is in your head now, I've done my job.

So grab your best friend Topanga and Selena on DVD and get ready to remember why the '90s can never die.

Images: Courtesy Brands