Fashion Trends – 1990s Black Women’s Fashion

The 1990s witnessed a great deal of change in fashion, with the advent of hip hop and rap styles and a new generation looking to be bold and individual. Since most styles emphasized edgier or less conservative clothing, black was often left out. However, with the popularity of urban and street styles growing, it seemed that this color would finally make its way into the mainstream. Thankfully, this trend didn’t last long, but instead fizzled out.

As the decade wore on, designers began to experiment with more elegant clothing for black women. The “New Black” look embraced elegance and sophistication while emphasizing the natural beauty of women of color. In fact, the “Hood” look took a turn toward more conservative fashion during this time period as well, although many still preferred to wear pants or skirts. The “Donna” cut became quite popular as well, with its off-center styling that highlighted the natural curves of the wearer. However, the “Donna” was most often paired with form-fitting cardigans, leaving more of the face exposed.

The 1990s brought about major changes in the way black women dressed. The “Hood” and “Donna” fashion trends gradually disappeared, only to be replaced by the more sophisticated and trend setting “vised” cuts that were introduced. However, as fashions changed for the better, so did the faces that were revealed, making it possible for women of all races and ethnicities to enjoy fashion.