The 1990 fashion trends in the Philippines can be traced back to the formation of the Social Nationalist Party (SPP). Philippine fashion is also identified as the expression of a group identity. As such, fashion has become part and parcel of any individual’s life style. In the midst of a social transformation, the adoption of new cultural aspects became natural and spontaneous. The Philippines has been able to maintain its distinctive culture despite transition by embracing modern trends.
During the early days of the new century, the fashion for women in the Philippines had been largely influenced by the European fashion scene. This was a period when clothing styles were either classic or feminine, depending on the social status of the wearer. A typical Filipino woman during this time is considered beautiful if she adorns herself with jewelry, dresses, and other adornments that accentuate her figure. Color and dress patterns were also prevalent, with each group presenting a wide array of hues, prints, and styles. Women’s clothing at this time also included evening gowns, skirts, and tops.
The decade of the 1990s witnessed the onset of new urban fashion styles, which tended to be more hip hop and dance oriented. Hip hop clothing styles were characterized by oversized, bright and bold colors, along with oversized and patchy clothing. Other urban fashion trends were denim, which were popularized by groups like the crew cuts, which were reminiscent of the Japanese kimono; and Gothic and punk rock clothing, which emphasized heavy and dark colors, along with unique and brightly-colored accessories. Other popular trends included skin rollers, neon, and other glow sticks, and neon club wear, which became popular in the nightclubs of Angeles and New York.