The ’90s are back: your guide to this year's key trouser trends
Forget fleeting micro-trends – the resurgence of the 1990s is proving remarkably resilient, and it's reshaping our wardrobes with a quiet confidence. Fuelled by a nostalgic yearning for dial-up internet and affordable rent, and perhaps a little nudge from Ryan Murphy’s Love Story (and its revival of Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s effortless chic), the decade’s minimalist aesthetic is dominating runways and street style alike. But this isn't a wholesale revival; it's a carefully curated selection of key pieces, and trousers are leading the charge.
The capri's unexpected return
Who could have predicted the return of the Capri pant? After a rollercoaster ride through the 50s, 60s, late 90s, and early 2000s, this seemingly awkward silhouette is, somehow, working again. Designers like Versace and Ralph Lauren have embraced it on the spring/summer 2026 runways, and the likes of Kendall Jenner and Bella Hadid are proving its staying power. Pair them with a low-rise heel and a spaghetti strap top for maximum impact, and prepare for compliments.
Consider: The Park Allison Capri pants from NET-A-PORTER ($395) or the Leset Rio capri pants ($180).
Cropped trousers: tailoring’s timeless appeal
The enduring appeal of cropped trousers lies in their versatility. Think Gwyneth Paltrow, Winona Ryder, and Carolyn Bessette Kennedy – these were the go-to bottoms for the effortlessly cool women of the 90s. The key is tailoring; a beautifully structured pair, worn with a blocky boot or minimal loafers, instantly elevates any outfit. They’re the perfect business-casual solution for a polished yet relaxed look.
Worth noting: High Sport Kick cropped flared pants ($860) offer a luxurious take, while Leset Rio cropped flared pants ($240) provide a more accessible option.
Cigarette jeans: pared-back perfection
As someone who’s tracked denim trends for years, I can confidently say that cigarette jeans remain a cornerstone of a modern wardrobe. They’re the antidote to oversized everything – pared-back, minimal, and surprisingly polished. Channel Cindy Crawford or Courteney Cox with a pair of 90s-inspired boots and shades for the full effect.
Get the look: Levi’s 501 90s jeans ($110) are a classic choice, or try Re/Done’s 90s straight leg jeans ($295).
Bootcut revival: a subtle flare
There's a distinct satisfaction in a perfectly executed bootcut trouser. Cameron Diaz and her contemporaries nailed this silhouette in the 90s, opting for a subtle kick flare that felt both modern and nostalgic. The mid-rise waist is crucial; it's what separates a 90s bootcut from a 2000s revival. It’s a welcome departure from skinny jeans and a surprisingly flattering option for all body types.
Where to shop: Banana Republic ponte ankle pants ($100) offer an affordable and accessible option, while Vince tailored bootcut pants ($398) deliver a more elevated feel.
Cargo pants: elevated utility
The 90s weren't just about minimalism; utility played a role too. But forget the Y2K-era cargo pants worn by coordinated girl groups. Instead, draw inspiration from Jennifer Aniston and even Brad Pitt’s laid-back style – muted colors, simple tanks, and flip-flops. This isn’t about tactical gear; it’s about understated cool. The key is to avoid looking too sporty.
Steal their style: Leset Kyoto pants ($280) offer a refined take, while Citizens of Humanity Marcelle cargo pants ($250) provide a more structured option.