Saggy jeans, large knits, and round sunnies are just a couple of popular trends from the in 2015, but prior to their 2020s revival, these pieces were carefully related to the ’90s grunge fashion motion. While grunge has actually never fallen out of style, our affinity for comfort-focused and saggy clothing in post-pandemic life has actually made the visual more popular than ever, specifically along with Gen Z’s enthusiasm for thrifting and subculture. Ahead, get a complete crash course on the grunge visual, complete with how to incorporate pieces from the ’90s fashion motion into your closet.
What Is the Grunge Aesthetic?
We might refer to grunge as a visual now, however in the ’90s, it was so much more. Quick history lesson: The term “grunge” originates from the grunge music motion that emerged in Seattle during the late ’90s. The genre’s most well-known bands consist of Nirvana and Pearl Jam, particularly Nirvana’s frontman Kurt Cobain, who quickly ended up being the “it-boy” of grunge fashion.
It’s worth mentioning that although the two motions existed in comparable time frames, grunge is not punk. The two are rather different. Punk was and still is about chains and leather and runs more gothic, however grunge gravitates towards loose-fitting clothes and feels a bit more disheveled. Just like the music, grunge fashion initially centered around an anti-consumerist mindset– which makes sense, offered thrifting and upcycling were top ways to get the grunge look at the time. Of course, ever since, the grunge aesthetic has made its way into haute couture and street design, with major names– Marc Jacobs for Perry Ellis, anyone?– paying tribute in their collections.
Key elements from the ’90s grunge period have actually stayed the very same– believe flannels, shredded denim, and army boot– and now they’ve ended up being much easier to go shopping, with Depop and shops like Urban Outfitters and Free People focusing on the grunge aesthetic. Despite the simpler access to getting the grunge aesthetic yourself, thrifting still stays at the heart of grunge, so you can either straight go shopping the pieces listed below or keep the basic closet formula in mind as you hunt for thrift shop gems.
The Best Grunge Pieces to Shop Now
Flannel Shirt
When you think of the grunge visual, a flannel shirt probably enters your mind. The relaxing staple is something you most likely currently have in your closet, making it among the simplest ways to adopt the style. If you’re feeling adventurous, though, try a flannel with torn edges or an upcycled piece for a truly unique look.
Product Picks
UNIF
R13
Class Project
Combat Boots
Army boot, particularly Doc Martens, have ended up being synonymous with the grunge aesthetic. To keep your stompers from drifting too punky, style them with a floral dress and an extra-large jeans coat.
Product Picks
Dr. Martens
Kendall Miles
Steve Madden
Baggy Jeans
We may have pertained to an agreement as a society to toss slim jeans out the window, but “dad” denims existed long before the Depop period. Baggy jeans was promoted through the grunge movement and promoted the idea of androgyny in fashion, with ladies typically thrifting men’s jeans to get that extra-large look. Now, saggy designs are widely readily available throughout all classifications, so it’s your option whether you try to find the best thrift store pair or opt for your go-to denim brand rather.
Product Picks
American Eagle
Levi’s
Good American
Distressed Knitwear
Unlike punk design, which revolves around dark hues like black and purple, grunge welcomes color with open arms. Uniqueness is a hallmark of grunge, so search for a vibrantly colored or distinctively printed distressed knit top to wear over a tiny dress and your preferred set of army boot.
Product Picks
Urban Outfitters
Jaded London
R13
Oval Sunglasses
Kurt Cobain enjoyed oval sunglasses, so add a little bit of whimsy to your grunge look with a set of your own. When it concerns grunge, there’s lots of room for uniqueness, so do not take yourself too seriously.
Product Picks
Elisa Johnson
Mango
Le Specs
Beanies
The grunge movement came from Seattle– a city known for its rainy and cold weather– so it’s no surprise a beanie ended up being a grunge aesthetic staple. Pair your beanie with a flannel top, and you’re out the door in no time.
Product Picks
The Elder Statesman
Plush
TheOpen Product
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