What do we know about the 90s of the 20th century? That was quite an interesting time, which gave rise to many singers, musicians and artists. That was the period when complete computerisation and Internet technologies hadn’t yet engulfed the whole world. In addition, the 1990s were the times of important historical events, which radically changed the geopolitical reality. Learn more at leedska.
This historical stage became a turning point in many respects, including fashion. This sphere was affected by technological breakthroughs, revolutionary changes in social life and political vicissitudes. The people of Leeds admired feminism, thought about nuclear danger, were concerned about ozone holes and worried about saving whales. Source: Blue17.co.uk.
The clothes of ordinary citizens were becoming more and more loose, provocative and independent of conventions and canons. There were a variety of styles, ways of self-expression and means. Grunge, vintage, rave culture and other trends were reflected in the clothes of the 1990s.
General fashion trends in the 1990s
The general trends of the 1990s fashion industry were characterised by gender equality or neutrality. Since then, girls could dress in purely boyish clothes and behave accordingly, defiantly, self-confidently and loosely. Guys weren’t afraid to experiment with images and cosmetics, which were previously considered a purely female prerogative. Slight carelessness and even sloppiness prevailed in the images of fashionistas of that time.
Designer creations by Calvin Klein, Jil Sander, Prada and Donna Karan have gained wide popularity. Thanks to the listed trendsetters, the British got practical and simple combination dresses and many more. It should be noted that elegant and luxurious models were also present in the market. John Galliano and Alexander McQueen had no equal in that niche.
Supermodels of the 1990s were known all over the world. There was probably no girl or woman who didn’t hear of Kate Moss or Cindy Crawford. Famous catwalk stars became real idols, setting an example for subsequent generations of fashionistas.
Casual clothes in the 1990s
Everyday clothes were distinguished by variety and practicality. Plaid skirts accompanied by similar ties were very popular. In particular, this trend could be observed in the characters of popular TV series of the 1990s.
Traditional jeans didn’t go out of fashion. They were worn at below-waist level and were often decorated with rhinestones. A combination dress has become one of the most desirable items for many fashionistas. This type of clothing combined maximum grunge and minimalist futurism, depending on how it was worn.
Women also wore short shiny pink tops, which barely covered the chest area. Still, they created a stunning look for parties and festive events. Popular celebrities of the 1990s often appeared in exactly such clothing.
People liked to tie jumpers or shirts around the waist. Residents of Leeds did it in case the weather worsened during the day. It usually didn’t happen, but such a manner of wearing clothes became a trend. Belts with spikes helped to maintain the image of a somewhat dishevelled but attractive girl.
Wedding dresses in the 1990s
Designers have always paid special attention to wedding fashion. After all, every girl wants to look perfect on such a day, so the dress should be appropriate. Wedding fashion mostly repeated the trends of ordinary evening dresses but obviously in white.
Simple dress combinations moved into wedding fashion too. They could be seen at the weddings of famous and ordinary people. In addition, designers actively used lace to make the festive image delicate and refined.
Evening looks in the 1990s
The world was shocked when Marc Jacobs, a designer of the American brand Perry Ellis, dared to raise the grunge style to high fashion. In general, in the 1990s, many experiments happened precisely in the context of evening fashion.
Old prom dresses, skirts and overalls were being combined with big boots. Dress combinations were adapted to evening fashion and used as festive options during celebrations and entertainment events.
Accessories in the 1990s
In the 1990s, Leeds fashionistas preferred bright and eccentric looks. They were often so self-contained that they required no accessories. Therefore, additional decorations were rarely used.
The exception was probably the velvet choker, which was worn with or without a small pendant. For those who bared the stomach, there was a new trend of piercing not only the nose but also the navel. Such bold experiments were quite provocative.
At the same time, the residents of Leeds were very fond of cute emoticon decorations and yin and yang pendants or bracelets. They were very popular at the time.
Popular clothing stores in 1990s Leeds
Throughout the 1990s, the residents of Leeds eagerly bought clothes in local shops. They especially liked to hunt for discounts. Leeds, as a large modern city, a centre of trade, culture, innovation and development, has always been ready to offer its residents and visitors a wide range of products to suit every taste.
One of the most popular shopping spots in the city was the famous local Kirkgate Market. Back then, women also liked to buy products by the famous British brand Monsoon Accessorize. Briggate Street attracted people with its numerous clothing and accessory stores and was considered a shopping centre. In the middle of the 1990s, you could find there the sought-after Stolen From Ivor chain of stores. The local shops were also selling jeans and some purely youth items.
Leeds fashion life of the 1990s was distinguished by a variety of manifestations, forms and styles. The fashion business was developing rapidly and the world-famous models became idols. Thousands of women expressed themselves and their individuality thanks to well-chosen images and design solutions.
Fashion has really become available for broad segments of the population. Every person could find their own style and develop their taste in clothing. Leeds shops offered many affordable, comfortable and practical solutions to provide the townspeople with a wide range of options. Women liked to visit dress shops in Leeds as in any other city of that era.
The 1990s was the last period on the eve of relentless technological progress, online commerce and related platforms. Recalling those years, fashion experts single out innovation, forwardness, freedom, bold experiments and challenges. Leeds was a leading city willing to follow the trends. In general, that era left many nostalgic memories for journalists, columnists, designers and ordinary people.