These '90s Oscars Trends Are Coming Back In 2016

If the Oscars red carpet is anything like real life, then there will definitely be some nods to '90s style this year. From spaghetti straps to matching separates, there are plenty of '90s red carpet trends we're bound to see at the Oscars in 2016. Whether that sounds magical or absolutely horrible to you, these are the things we'll probably see on our favorite actors as they strut down the red carpet on Feb. 28.

From your favorite looks, like crop tops and pastel colors, to your least favorite, like turtleneck dresses and matching separates, there's no denying the Oscars red carpet was a bizarre place in the '90s. Looking back at these outfits now, though, they're not as horribly outdated as they must have seemed in the early 2000s. In fact, a lot of the trends from back then are currently very popular (yes, even in formalwear). When you consider that the 2016 Oscars are fast approaching, that only means one thing: the '90s are going to take over.

Without further ado, here are nine '90s Oscars trends we'll most likely see on the red carpet this year. Because whether you like it or not, the '90s are in style.

1. Pastel Colors

Gwyneth Paltrow's 1999 Oscar's gown is still one of the most memorable to ever walk down the red carpet. From the spaghetti straps to the cinched in waist, it's a quintessential '90s look through and through, but the pastel pink color makes it really special. I don't think anyone would complain if a shade like this marched down the carpet at this year's Oscars, because it's that pretty.

2. Plunging Necklines

The '90s were a good time to show off some cleavage with a plunging neckline. Something tells me we're going to see a lot of that in 2016. The red Versace number Cindy Crawford wore to the 1991 Oscars was uber sexy yet chic, and had just the right amount of cleavage for the fairly conservative dress code at the Academy Awards. I could totally see this year's nominees Brie Larson or Alicia Vikander rocking a look like this.

3. Turtleneck Column Dress

Goldie Hawn looked gorgeous, as she always does, at the 1997 Academy Awards. But the best part was her so '90s turtleneck column gown. Because of how popular turtleneck designs have been this autumn/winter, I'm sure a style like this is bound to emerge on the Oscars red carpet in 2016.

4. Off-The-Shoulder

An off-the-shoulder look may not be exclusively '90s, but there's no doubt it's most recent revival certainly picked up from where it left off in the late 20th century. Meryl Streep rocked the style with embellishments and sparkles for the awards show in 1999 and looked absolutely divine. A similar dress like this would still kill the red carpet today, so I have my fingers crossed at least someone will wear an off-the-shoulder something!

5. Matching Separates

It's typical to wear a formal dress to a big event like this one, so when Claire Danes showed up to the 1997 Academy Awards in what looked like a thin sweater and a matching satin skirt, she stood out. Nevertheless, the Romeo + Juliet actor rocked it, and proved that matching separates may just be a '90s Oscars ensemble to revisit. I definitely wouldn't mind seeing this on a younger talent like Saoirse Ronan or even sartorial badass Rooney Mara.

6. Crop Top & Skirt

Because crop tops with skirts are already such a trendy look at the moment, this one was a no-brainer. Uma Thurman's exuberant ensemble from the 1999 Oscars was very dramatic and feminine, which was the perfect approach for a formal event. This is definitely a silhouette that has potential to land the best dressed list in 2016.

7. Slip Dress

The always regal and exquisitely dressed Cate Blanchett has consistently opted for intricate designs and unique silhouettes at red carpet events. But that's not to say her sheer, embroidered slip dress from the 1999 Oscars isn't worth bringing back in 2016. The gown has a beautiful structure, and, despite being sheer, gorgeous detailing. With more lining and in a brighter color, this exact gown could really slay on the red carpet today.

8. A Wrap

Wearing a wrap with everything was a good idea in the '90s, even for Sex & The City's resident fashionista, Carrie Bradshaw — ahem, I mean, Sarah Jessica Parker. You know Parker wore it, it had to be awesome. Nevertheless, I wouldn't be surprised if someone attended the upcoming Oscars wearing a similar accessory. The style is definitely a very '90s look, but also chic and functional. Not only do you have an awesome accessory, but you also have something to keep you warm!

9. Bustier

The '90s also saw the reemergence of the bustier. Exhibit A: Gina Davis at the Oscars in 1992. The gown she wore had a lot going on besides the tight bustier, from the spaghetti straps to the hi-low skirt, but there's no denying it was a style risk that paid off. I could easily see a bustier look on the red carpet this year, or really any of these trends. The '90s are definitely back, and in a big way, and I think the Academy Awards will prove it once and for all.

Images: Getty