Unlike the dreadful low-rise jeans, whale tails, and micro-minis of Y2K fashion, grunge style doesn’t call for you to bare all the time. It’s the pinnacle of being cool without even trying, to put it simply.
Grunge may be compared to Normcore’s hipper elder sister. Don’t be deceived by the simple appearance of grunge style. Their wide-legged jeans and oversized flannels have probably been cut to seem casually big when you see a celebrity wearing baggy pieces and essentials that make up a high-end grunge style.
Don’t worry if you wish to keep everything fitted. Supersized pieces aren’t the only thing that may be worn in grunge style. It’s possible to appear snatched and grungy at the same time by layering, experimenting with plaid, mismatching, leaning toward punk-inspired accessories, and donning vintage stomp-around boots. Consider incorporating one of these grunge fashion cues into your weekly “fit rotation” if you want to add grunge vibes to your wardrobe.
Play With Plaid
’90s grunge took cues from alt-rock culture and, thanks to Nirvana’s massive fame at the time, plaid flannel button-downs became synonymous with grunge. You can modernize this grunge-style staple by skipping the shirt and working in the iconic pattern through a jacket, skirt, or matching set.
Another quintessential grunge style hallmark is adding lots of layers. For spring, try layering denim outerwear with lightweight knit tops, and don’t shy away from cinching a flannel shirt around your waist.
Add Some Soft Edge
Warm weather doesn’t have to mean the end of your grunge-style experimentation. An airy sundress paired with combat boots channels the effortlessness and hard edge of grunge in a brunch-approved silhouette.
Mix N’ Mismatch
Clashing and contrasting prints and patterns are a hallmark of grunge style. Remember, grunge is too cool to care to match. If you don’t quite trust your own sense of mismatched taste, try a single piece of clothing like a patchwork skirt or top that combines two different prints.
Work In Pleats
Grunge style doesn’t have to be loud or ostentatious. You can nod to the aesthetic with something as simple as a pleated skirt. Plaid is definitely the grungiest of grunge-style options, but any skirt with accordion pleats sends out grunge-style singles.
Bring On The Boots
Footwear is a key part of grunge style and, when it comes to boots, the bigger the better. A classic combat boot combines toughness and comfort, two major elements of the grunge aesthetic.
Embrace School Spirit
Nothing evokes the OG true ’90s grunge aesthetic quite like an oversized flannel tunic under a varsity jacket. To bring this grunge style into the modern age, pair the fit with a pair of heeled boots to give it a bit of va-va-voom.
Go Oversized
While you certainly don’t have to wear an oversized item of clothing to give off grunge-style vibes, embracing at least one loosely fitted piece definitely helps channel the aesthetic. There’s really no way to overdo the oversized element of grunge style, but if you prefer more form-fitting tops, try incorporating a pair of baggy cargo pants or distressed jeans into a look.
Slip Into A Slip Dress
Grunge style’s softer side plays up the feminine. A slip dress paired with combat boots, tights, and with or without a flannel shirt, plays up the softer side of the grunge while still staying true to the aesthetic.