I Gave Myself a '90s Makeover—See How I Did

There I was innocently scrolling on Pinterest at 2 a.m. on a sleepless Tuesday night when I came upon a ’90s runway look that stopped my energetic thumb in its tracks. It was Nina Ricci’s S/S ’97 show and featured a blinged-out belly chain. Yes, I am 30 years old and am highly interested in adorning my midsection with rhinestones, as seen on my Instagram, but the idea of wearing one above my pants was highly novel to me. Many more ’90s runway rabbit holes followed, and I started testing out the freshest looks I could find. If you need more proof that the 1990s are more relevant than ever in 2018 or just want to see how I fared in adapting looks that are over two decades old, I encourage you to read on. Like me, you may just find your inner ’90s child along the way.

We all know a square neckline is about as 2018 as it gets, but it turns out that the style was en vogue over 20 years ago too.

My Take on a Square-Neck Top + Statement Accessories

Note to self: An all-black outfit is a perfect canvas for layering on the accessories.

Until I saw this photo, I wasn’t aware that a see-through top paired with square sunglasses made for a painfully cool combination. The more you know.

My Take on Square Sunglasses + Sheer

While not appropriate for the office, my attempt at this ’90s look turned out to be perfect for a sunny weekend.

This woman has it going on. The puff-sleeve trend is only gaining steam, and we all know how fashion is collectively feeling about a statement straw hat. Thanks, Jacquemus.

My Take on a Romantic Floral Top + Straw Hat

Pro tip: A puff-sleeve top becomes even chiller when the back is left undone.

I would 1000% wear this exactly as is. The color, the sequin cutouts, and the micro spaghetti straps all make me way too excited.

My Take on a Double-knotted Dress

The pink part was nonnegotiable. I do like how this current party dress has little bands for a bow-like effect.

I cannot imagine a more pleasing combination than belly bling paired with a no-nonsense tweed suit. I sincerely hope this image lived up to the hype.

My Take on a Rhinestone Belly Belt

A rhinestone belly belt, as I am charmingly calling this, is not a trend for the shy at heart. I tried this outfit at Coachella, where it was a rather tame look compared to many of the sartorial efforts around me. I recommend pairing it with the pair of pants you own that features the highest rise so just a sliver of skin, albeit bedazzled skin, is showing.

Matching sets are usually a delight, and this breezy iteration is no exception.

My Take on a Summer Suit

Short suits are having a moment, but I choose to shave my legs about once a quarter, so this iteration better suits (see what I did there?) my laissez-faire leg hair lifestyle.