Pop Couture

Though Sublime might not be as obviously out of style as denim overalls with one strap fastened, the surviving band is still as obsolete as carpenter jeans or thigh-high stockings.

As for most things that thrived in the 1990s, the word “fad” comes to mind and brings with it images of catalogs and shiny magazines covered in the now-regretted clothing trends of our former generation.

Our Little 500 concert directors might have had room in their hearts for this tacky kind of nostalgia by booking Sublime with Rome, but some things need to be left in the past.

Yet unlike ska punk trios, fashion matures. So don’t protest every 1994 and 1996 piece that might have slipped its way back into your closet; some things do make successful comebacks.

When analyzing the contents of closets past, one should start by summoning former fashionistas to get a mental image.

Let’s look at two famous 1990s characters: the “clueless” Cher Horowitz and the “friendly” Rachel Green. They were both extremes, but so was the era. From popular schoolgirl Cher’s platforms and lipstick to city-girl Rachel’s slip dresses and Mary Janes, the two have a combined wardrobe that is a comprehensive representation of the time.

In 1994, grunge was ending, and a new era of tailored feminism was eager to begin. It was a transformation that parallels our current shift from bandage dresses and studded details to more modest waist skirts and pearls.

Take Mary Janes. Skip the cinematics, and you have quality closed-toed leather shoes with fitting straps. The comfortable and versatile shoes can be paired with shorts or knee-length skirts to add a cute good-girl look. But consider leaving the heavy soles and buckles in the 1990s.

Instead, take a look at the cotton Mary Jane flats, which mix the classic style with brightly colored floral patterns. For a more sophisticated prep style, look for those 1990s-eque leather loafers and pair them with cuffed shorts and cardigans.

Also allowed into this decade: bomber jackets. Granted, I’m biased after seeing Ryan Gosling strut one in “Drive” last fall, but who wouldn’t be? They’re the ultimate cool-guy prop. Whether layered with hooded zips, dress shirts or white T-shirts, the jacket is a statement. Paired with just about anything, a lighter tan bomber puts an edge on summer simplicity.

Lastly, take the crop tops and denim fetish of 1995 and switch the color roles. The 1990s might have played bright tops with jorts (blue jean shorts), but we lean toward the opposite.

Look for a simple off-white crop that can be paired with a modern hue, such as Free People’s Melon denim shorts; pair it with a bulky accessory and loafers; and call it a
spring day.

So there you have it: some appealing items from a not-always-appealing era. Leave the tacky behind, but dare to reclaim the pieces that deserve a revival. And if you must slip an old Sublime cassette into your old player when you slip on those Mary Janes, well, then at least someone’s still listening to Sublime.

Merry Little 500.