The ’90s are back: your guide to this season’s key trouser trends

Forget fleeting micro-trends – the resurgence of the 1990s isn’t a blip; it’s a full-blown revival, and it’s reshaping our wardrobes. Fuelled by a collective yearning for a simpler era, perhaps accelerated by Ryan Murphy’s recent re-imagining of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s style, and certainly aided by the nostalgic appeal of pre-smartphone living, the decade of grunge and minimalist chic is dominating the fashion conversation once more. But this isn’t a mere rehash; it’s a refined interpretation.

The return of the capri: a surprisingly versatile staple

Capri pants – those quirky, often-dismissed bottoms – have defied all expectations and stormed back onto the runways. Versace, Ralph Lauren, and Isabel Marant all showcased their versions this season, proving that the cropped silhouette, especially when paired with a low-rise heel and a delicate spaghetti strap, can be surprisingly flattering. Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid have already been spotted sporting the look, further solidifying its status as a must-have. The Park Allison Capri pants at Net-A-Porter, for instance, offer a sleek and elevated take, while Leset’s Rio capri pants provide a more relaxed, everyday option.

Cropped trousers: the tailored touch

The secret to achieving that effortless ’90s cool lies in the cut. Think Gwyneth Paltrow, Winona Ryder, and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy – their perfectly tailored cropped trousers epitomized understated elegance. These aren’t your slouchy, oversized bottoms; they’re precisely cut and best worn with a blocky boot or minimalist loafers. Leset’s Rio cropped flared pants are a prime example, offering a contemporary twist on a timeless classic. The key is a clean, tailored finish – it’s the business-casual staple that truly does it all.

Cigarette jeans: pared-back perfection

My tenure at British Vogue involved countless dispatches on cigarette jeans, and I’m not about to stop now. They remain the epitome of effortless cool, a stark contrast to the current trend of oversized denim. The pared-back, minimal aesthetic of these jeans – reminiscent of Cindy Crawford and Courteney Cox in their prime – is perfectly suited to 2026. Pair them with ’90s-inspired boots and shades for a truly authentic look. Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans offer a familiar, accessible option, while Re/Done’s straight-leg version provides a more premium feel.

Bootcut trousers: a subtle flare

There's a certain satisfaction in the subtle kick flare of ’90s bootcut trousers – a silhouette championed by Cameron Diaz and her contemporaries. The trick to achieving that authentic ’90s vibe, rather than a Noughties throwback, lies in the waistline. The mid-rise fit was the defining characteristic of the era. Banana Republic’s ponte ankle pants offer a readily available and affordable take on this trend, while Vince’s tailored bootcut pants provide a more luxurious option.

Cargo pants: elevated utility

Cargo pants can easily veer into Y2K territory, evoking images of girl bands and coordinated dance routines. But take a cue from Jennifer Aniston and Brad Pitt, who effortlessly incorporated them into their late ’90s wardrobes. Muted colors, laid-back tanks, and simple flip-flops are the key to nailing the look. Leset’s Kyoto pants are a sophisticated choice, while Citizens of Humanity’s Marcelle cargo pants offer a more contemporary silhouette. The shift is away from overt sportiness and towards a more refined, understated utility.