As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, fall fashion makes its annual comeback—and this year, it’s a nostalgic one. Think vintage silhouettes with modern updates, 90s textures, and accessories that feel straight out of your favorite old movie. From velvet and suede to moody nail tones and layered gold, these throwback trends are setting the tone for a season that’s equal parts cozy and chic.
Whether you’re curating a capsule wardrobe or refreshing your accessories, these six vintage-meets-90s fall trends are your guide to channeling timeless style with a modern twist.
1. Acrylic Hair Clips: A Nod to the 90s It-Girl
It’s official—acrylic claw clips and barrettes are back, and they’re bigger (literally) than ever. Once a staple of 90s supermodels and teen rom-coms, these practical yet stylish hair accessories are making waves again this fall.
Opt for oversized tortoiseshell or marble-patterned clips for that effortless, “just rolled out of bed” updo that still looks polished. The best part? They work with almost any hair length and texture, adding a splash of personality to your everyday look. Pair your clip with a chunky sweater and gold hoops for that ultimate 90s minimalist vibe.
2. Beautiful Carpet Bags and Vintage Chain Bags: Granny Chic Goes Glam
One of fall’s most romantic trends, carpet and chain bags, channels the elegance of the early 20th century with a dose of 70s bohemian flair. Think Mary Poppins meets modern street style.
MCW Carpet Bags are made from tapestry-like fabrics with floral or paisley designs—bring a touch of Victorian drama to your outfit. Meanwhile, vintage-inspired chain bags, reminiscent of the 90s Chanel era, blend timeless sophistication with versatility. The gold chains and structured shapes instantly elevate any outfit, whether you’re in jeans or a midi dress.
3. Layering Necklaces: A Classic Reinvented
Finally, no trend speaks to timeless femininity quite like layered necklaces. This style bridges the gap between the 1970s boho era and 1990s minimalism. From Stella Henri delicate layering chains to chunky lockets and charms, layering creates a curated yet effortless aesthetic.
The trick to nailing this look is mixing textures and lengths—combine a short choker with a mid-length pendant and a long, thin chain. Whether over a turtleneck or peeking through a silk blouse, it’s an instant way to elevate your fall style.
4. Tall Suede Boots and Chunky Velvet Heels: Retro Textures Reign
If there’s one thing both the 70s and 90s agreed on, it’s that texture matters. This fall, tall suede boots and chunky velvet heels are everywhere, adding tactile richness to your wardrobe.
Naturalizer’s Tall suede boots are a nod to the 1970s—pair beautifully with boho dresses and midi skirts.
Naturalizer’s Deesha Boot
From Naturalizer’s True Colors collection. Available in inclusive colors, choose your favorite take on these knee high boots. Slip into these total statement-making boots.
I love how Naturalizer’s Joy chunky velvet heels call back to 90s nightlife and grunge glam. Velvet, especially in jewel tones like burgundy or emerald, creates an opulent contrast against fall’s earthy neutrals.
The key to styling these? Keep the rest of your outfit simple—think a monochrome knit dress or straight-leg denim—to let your shoes steal the show.
Naturalizer’s Joy Dress Sandal
From Naturalizer’s Party Ready and Wedding Shop collections. Pumps with undeniable comfort. This platform dress sandal with a cool square toe and adjustable buckle closure heightens the looks you love.
5. Dark Moody Nails: The 90s Edge Returns
Move over, pastel pinks, dark nails are dominating fall 2025. From deep merlot to espresso brown and inky navy, these rich tones are the perfect complement to your fall wardrobe. This year I am loving DND 175 – Cherry Mocha. (Below)
This trend pulls heavily from 90s grunge fashion when edgy, moody beauty looks reigned supreme. Think Winona Ryder in Reality Bites or Drew Barrymore’s early 90s aesthetic—cool, confident, and just a bit rebellious. I also love OPI Nail Lacquer in Lincoln Park After Dark.
Pair your dark nails with gold jewelry and a soft, feminine outfit for contrast, or go full moody chic with leather and suede textures.
6. Vintage Earrings: Statement Sparkle from Eras Past
No fall outfit is complete without a hint of sparkle—and this season, vintage earrings are making their statement. From 1920s art deco pieces to 1980s gold twists, this trend proves that good style never goes out of fashion. Every time I visit my local antique store, I always snag a pair of vintage clip-ons for less than $10!
The beauty of vintage-inspired earrings is their versatility. Oversized gold hoops echo the 90s, while ornate chandelier earrings recall old Hollywood glamour. The key is to let them be the focal point—pair with simple silhouettes or high necklines to draw attention to your face.
Nostalgia Meets Now
This fall, fashion is less about reinvention and more about revival. By blending nostalgic 90s trends with the romantic charm of vintage eras, you can create a wardrobe that feels both familiar and fresh.
From the practicality of acrylic clips to the elegance of carpet bags and the moody edge of dark nails, these six trends prove that fashion history has a way of circling back in the most beautiful way.
So dig into your jewelry box, dust off those suede boots, and embrace the art of mixing old with new—because fall 2025 is all about dressing with a little history and a lot of heart.
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