We’ve always loved the ’90s, but in 2026, we really love the ’90s. You can thank Ryan Murphy’s Love Story for introducing a new generation to Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, or maybe it’s just an even stronger nostalgia for a time before smartphones and more affordable rent. And, as always, it’s influencing how we dress. From the clean-lined silhouettes that defined peak ’90s minimalism to a newfound love for the era’s accessories—like headbands, silk scarves, and simple hoops—fashion’s most understated yet imitated decade is back in the spotlight.
You’ve got your strappy heels or chunky boots—but what to wear on the bottom half? Here are five ’90s-inspired trouser trends we’ll be wearing on repeat this year.
Capri Pants
Capri pants, which were popular in the 1950s and ’60s and again in the late ’90s and early 2000s, are one of those odd items that shouldn’t work but somehow do—especially with a low heel and a spaghetti-strap top. They were all over the Spring/Summer 2026 runways (think Versace, Ralph Lauren, and Isabel Marant) and are also loved by Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid.
Cropped Trousers
Often, the secret to a perfect ’90s look isn’t the item itself, but the cut. Take the beautifully tailored cropped trousers worn by icons like Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Winona Ryder back in the day. Usually paired with blocky boots or simple loafers, cropped trousers are the versatile business-casual option that can do it all.
Cigarette Jeans
I may have written about cigarette jeans a thousand times during my tenure at British Vogue, but I’m not stopping now. That’s because they’re the perfect jeans for 2026—streamlined, minimal, and more polished than baggier styles. To fully embrace the decade, à la Cindy Crawford and Courteney Cox, style them with ’90s boots and sunglasses.
Bootcut Trousers
There’s something uniquely satisfying about the bootcut trousers Cameron Diaz and others wore throughout the ’90s: almost straight-leg, but with a subtle flare. The key to making them feel ’90s rather than 2000s is the waist—celebrities of the era were all about that mid-rise fit.
Cargo Pants
Go too sporty with cargo pants, and you might look like a member of a Y2K girl band ready to break into a choreographed routine. Instead, take cues from Jennifer Aniston—and even her then-boyfriend Brad Pitt—on how to do it the late-’90s way: think muted colors, relaxed tanks, and flip-flops (save the sneakers for the gym).Citizens of Humanity Marcelle cargo pants, $250 at NET-A-PORTER.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs 5 90s Trouser Trends to Revive Your Wardrobe in 2026
General Beginner Questions
What are the key 90s trouser trends making a comeback
The top five trends are 1 Wideleg and baggy jeans 2 Cargo pants with big pockets 3 Straightleg slightly loosefit trousers 4 Corduroy pants in relaxed fits and 5 Lowrise silhouettes
Why should I try these 90s styles now
They offer a relaxed comfortable alternative to skinny jeans and tight fits Theyre versatile can create unique silhouettes and add a nostalgic yet fresh vibe to your wardrobe
Im used to skinny jeans Will these look good on me
Absolutely The key is balancing proportions If you wear a voluminous bottom pair it with a more fitted top Its about creating a new shape that feels modern
Arent lowrise pants uncomfortable and unflattering
The 2026 revival is more about a midlow or gentle lowrise not the extreme styles of the early 2000s Look for styles that sit just below the natural waist for a nod to the trend without discomfort
Style Styling Questions
How do I style wideleg jeans without looking swamped
Keep the top half streamlined Try a tuckedin tshirt a fitted knit or a cropped sweater Heeled shoes or platforms will also elongate your leg and prevent the look from dragging
What tops work best with cargo pants
To avoid looking too bulky pair them with simple tops a slimfit tank a tuckedin buttondown or a closefitting turtleneck The goal is to let the pants be the statement
Can I wear corduroy pants outside of fallwinter
Yes Opt for lighterweight corduroy in pastel or neutral colors Pair them with a linen shirt or a simple tee for a warmerweather look
What shoes do I wear with these trouser styles
WidelegStraightleg Chunky sneakers loafers or platform sandals