Fashion Fails of ’97 You Thought You Forgot (But You Didn’t)

by · July 9, 2024

Remembering the bold and daring fashion choices of 1997, from neon windbreakers to towering platform shoes, that defined an unforgettable era in style.
Remembering the bold and daring fashion choices of 1997, from neon windbreakers to towering platform shoes, that defined an unforgettable era in style.

Stepping back into 1997, one might think of the Spice Girls’ meteoric rise, the birth of DVD players, and a world buzzing with anticipation for the new millennium. But let’s not forget one more unforgettable element of the era: its bewildering fashion. While some trends have aged like fine wine, others… not so much. This list dives into the year’s biggest fashion faux pas that left an indelible mark – for better or worse.

1. Excessive Denim

Denim on denim was the name of the game. From jackets to jeans, and even shirts, it was all about layering up in the same fabric. Celebrities strutted red carpets looking like they’d taken a denim bath. Though the idea of head-to-toe denim wasn’t new, 1997 took it to uncomfortable heights. Too much of a good thing, perhaps?

In 1997, celebrities turned the red carpet into a denim runway, layering jackets, shirts, and jeans all made from the same fabric. The era pushed the boundaries of fashion, proving

2. Platform Sneakers

Inspired by the Spice Girls, platform sneakers sought to increase your height and your cool factor simultaneously. Clunky and often impractical, these shoes emphasized bulk over elegance. While they might have looked cool then, today they seem more suited to a teen sci-fi movie than everyday wear.

Once the epitome of 90s cool, these clunky platform sneakers, inspired by the Spice Girls, aimed to boost both your height and style. Though they prioritized bulk over practicality, their bold look is now more fitting for a teen sci-fi movie than a walk down the street.

3. Tiny Sunglasses

In a defiant stand against practicality, tiny sunglasses disrupted the fashion scene. These minuscule eyewear trends offered minimal protection from the sun and maximum potential for eye strain. Models and celebrities flaunted them as a stylish accessory, but for ordinary folks, they were more of a nuisance than anything else.

Models and celebrities flaunted them as a stylish accessory, but for ordinary folks, these minuscule eyewear trends offered more eye strain than sun protection.

4. Cargo Pants

If you needed to carry your entire life in your pockets, cargo pants were your go-to. With an excessive number of pockets, these pants aimed for utility but quickly became the hallmark of over-the-top, unrefined style. Bulky and often mismatched, they embodied a confusing mix of practicality and fashion disaster.

When you needed to carry everything but the kitchen sink, cargo pants were your answer. Despite their practicality, they quickly became infamous for their bulky, mismatched look, blending utility with a touch of fashion chaos.

5. Glitter Everything

From body glitter to shimmery makeup, 1997 was a year bathed in sparkle. While a bit of shimmer can add fun to an outfit, the era took it to an extreme. Glitter dominated every aspect of fashion, making everyday life look like an ongoing party. The clean-up? Not so glamorous.

Glitter Everything: In 1997, glitter was the ultimate accessory, transforming everyday fashion into a dazzling display. From body glitter to shimmery makeup, everyone embraced the sparkle, creating a party-like ambiance in daily life. The aftermath, however,

Despite the fashion missteps, 1997 was an iconic year that demonstrated boldness in choice and style. By reflecting on these past trends, we can appreciate the evolution of fashion. Perhaps some of these looks will even make a comeback – just hopefully with a modern twist.

  1. Albright Fashion Library
  2. The Fashion History Museum

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