Like Brandy on “Dancing With the Stars,” the 90′s are back with a vengeance. And no one is more excited than me to see this fall’s runways full of long, floral skirts, denim vests, plaid jackets, and baggy menswear-inspired trousers. The newly vintage decade put a whole new spin on the androgynous look popularized in the 80s, marrying ultra-feminine and classic tomboy styles. To honor the decade’s fashion reincarnation – and for you Lovelies who may be a bit young to remember – here are five 90s icons to tack on your fall wardrobe inspiration wall:

Elaine Benes 

The quintessential 90s sitcom character may have had her share of faux-pas. There was the bad dancing, the scrunchy bouffant, and I can’t really say I’m a fan of the coordinating silks pant and jacket ensembles. But Elaine was onto something with the whole prairie-girl-in-the-big-city theme that’s huge on the streets and the glossies right now. Lose the sleeves on your ankle dress and swap the white socks for lace or another fun pattern, and you’re Ms. Benes, version 2011.0.

Courtney Love

One of the first ladies of grunge, Courtney Love perfected the pixie-goth look during the 90s. Ripped tights and biker boots paired with pink lace dresses and leather jackets aren’t nearly as shocking anymore, but they’re definitely having a comeback. Give the Love look an update with a lace skirt, ankle boots, and a loose blouse on top. 

Kelly Kapowski

 The girl-next-door on the Saturday morning classic Saved by the Bell had a timeless charm, and now her flirty crop tops and zippered skirts have charmed modern style icons like Rihanna and Blake Lively. Stick to one retro piece and pair it with something modern for your 2010 homage to the Bayside High babe. 

Cher Horowitz

This classically clueless California girl epitomized the preppy schoolgirl look that dominated the mid-90s. Her Valley Girl uniform of knee-high socks, Mary-Jane strappy’s, and tartan mini’s influenced the designers of the day and is popping up on fashion blogs and lookbooks yet again. To update: take the hem of your plaid skirt down and swap the silver shoes for black and white or brown Oxfords. Can I just say, you are such a Betty!

Steve Urkel

There’s no denying that nerd chic has taken over both men’s and women’s fashion. The dweeby neighbor with a big heart and nasally laugh may not have been the first to rock suspenders and wide-rimmed glasses, but he certainly sets an iconic standard for today’s ironic hipsters. 

 

Who was your favorite fashion icon from the 90s?