how much does it cost to do box braids

100+ BEST BOX BRAIDS FOR KIDS FROM PLAYGROUND TO PARTIES

Are you looking for stylish and practical hairstyles for your little one? Box braids are a fantastic choice! They’re not only adorable but also protective, perfect for kids who love to play. From cute and casual looks for the playground to glamorous styles for special occasions, this guide has something for every young fashionista. Get ready to explore a world of braided brilliance!

WHAT ARE KIDS’ BOX BRAIDS?

Box braids are a fun and adorable hairstyle that can make any child feel like a star! Picture small sections of hair divided into squares, each forming a playful braid that can hang loose or twist up.

Not only do they look charming, but box braids also offer practical benefits. They help protect your child’s hair from tangles and damage during playtime and adventures.

Parents often seek a hairstyle that’s both low-maintenance and durable, and box braids are the perfect solution for this.

Plus, you can enhance box braids with beads, bows, and colorful extensions to match your child’s vibrant personality. Box braids are more than just a hairstyle; they combine cuteness, protection, and self-expression beautifully!

Top Knot With Box Braids For Kids

Peekaboo Box Braids with Beads

ESSENTIAL PREPARATION FOR KIDS’ BOX BRAIDS

Often, parents rely on stylists to create hairstyles for their children, but if you’re comfortable doing it yourself, that’s great! Before you start braiding, make sure to follow these essential preparation steps:

  • Begin by using a detangling brush to gently work through your child’s natural hair. Be careful to avoid causing any damage to the roots or scalp.
  • Wash the hair with a kid-friendly shampoo and water to remove dead skin cells, sweat, and any product buildup.
  • Apply a kid-friendly conditioner to soften the hair, making it easier to manage and style.
  • Use a blow dryer to stretch out the hair and prepare it for braiding.
  • Finish by applying an anti-itch spray to the scalp to keep it comfortable during and after the braiding process.

Thick Jumbo Single braids 

Goddess Braids for Kids

Next, you’ll need to select some braiding hair. If you’re working with a stylist, they will likely provide this for you. However, if you’re braiding your child’s hair yourself, you’ll need to purchase the braiding hair separately.

When doing the braids yourself, start by sectioning the natural hair, attaching the hair extensions, and then begin braiding.

Once you’ve finished braiding, consider retouching, trimming any flyaways, and dipping the ends into hot water for a neat finish. If you’re not confident in your braiding skills, it’s best to have a professional stylist handle the box braids to ensure a polished result.

HOW TO STYLE YOUR KIDS’ BOX BRAIDS

Box braids are a versatile and protective hairstyle with numerous variations that kids can enjoy just like adults.

In this section, we’ll explore some of the most popular box braid styles for children, including options like braids with beads, braided buns, and jumbo braids.

To enhance the look, consider adding ribbons, hair bows, and rubber bands as accessories. You can also choose from various lengths and colors, such as hip-length or shoulder-length, and shades like red and purple. Let’s find the perfect box braids style for your child!

KIDS’ BOX BRAIDS WITH GLASS BEADS

Beads are some of the most beautiful hair accessories, and they look even more stunning and adorable when paired with kids’ braids.

When it comes to choosing beads for your child’s hairstyle, the options are endless, and many are truly gorgeous. We recommend these enchanting glass beads for your little one—they’re shiny, glittery, and full of color.

Not only do they add elegance to the hairstyle, but they also reflect your child’s personality. These beads are perfect for braids and pair wonderfully with ribbons, hair bows, and knots.

One of the best parts of box braids with glass beads is the boost of confidence it gives your child, as seen in the picture below. If you’re considering a braided hairstyle for your girl, this is definitely a style to keep in mind.

GODDESS BOX BRAIDS FOR KIDS

These braided hairstyles combine box braids with curls, creating a beautiful and unique look. To achieve this style, you’ll need two types of hair: one for the braids and another for the curly ends.

Experts often recommend Kanekalon hair for the braiding texture, as it’s ideal for creating neat and durable braids. For the curly ends, you can use wavy human or synthetic hair, depending on your preference. If you opt for human hair, keep in mind it will be more expensive than synthetic options.

Regardless of the hair type you choose, don’t miss out on the possibilities these braided hairstyles offer. You can experiment with highlighted colors, half ponytails, golden beads, and much more. The images below showcase some stunning examples of Goddess box braids for kids, which are sure to be a hit with both parents and kids alike.

BOX BRAIDS BUN HAIRSTYLES FOR AFRICAN-AMERICAN KIDS

JUMBO BOX BRAIDS FOR KIDS

Jumbo box braids, one of the finest African-rooted protective hairstyles, are a thicker and larger variant of traditional box braids. As you can see in the pictures below, these styles are incredibly versatile and work well with various accessories.

Jumbo box braids can be styled with both square and triangular/diamond-shaped parts, making them a great option if your kids love long, thick plaits. The cost for this hairstyle typically ranges from $140 to $220+ and can last for 4 to 8 weeks.

However, we recommend not leaving these braids in for more than 5 weeks, as prolonged wear can lead to natural hair damage and potential scalp infections.

DOUBLE KNOTTED BRAIDS FOR KIDS

Knots are an adorable and simple option. With your child’s lovely box braids, you can easily shape them into various designs, and knots are among the most popular hairstyles for box braids.

Braided knots offer a great solution for parents looking for the perfect hairstyle for their little girls. These long plaits can be accessorized in countless ways, making them even more versatile.

The best part is the charming side knots, which can be enhanced with color and accessories. Your child will look like a little angel with these beautifully designed hairstyles. Whether you opt for full updos or half updos with two large knots, the results are stunning.

Here, we’ve selected four recent designs featuring double knots with box braids to inspire you. These styles are sure to convince you of their charm!

RIBBONS AND HAIR BOWS ARE GREAT WITH INDIVIDUAL BRAIDS

As we’ve mentioned before, ribbons and hair bows add a super-cool effect to kids’ hairstyles, enhancing their overall appearance. This holds true for children all around the world.

These accessories create a floral touch to your child’s hairstyle, complementing their angelic look. These nostalgic hairstyles bring out a sense of innocence and charm in their appearance.

The best part is that your kids can wear these accessories with highlighted braids, shorter plaits, updos, and buns. The images below will give you some inspiration for incorporating ribbons and hair bows into box braid hairstyles.

PUT SOME COLOR TO HER BOX BRAIDS

Let’s add some color to your kids’ lives by introducing vibrant shades into their braided hairstyles.

You’ll often notice colorful highlights in kids’ hairstyles, as full-color looks are more common among adults. For kids, subtle color highlights are a great way to add a playful touch to their braids.

In the images below, you’ll see how these colorful accents bring a magical charm to your child’s hairstyle. Burgundy is a popular choice for kids, and we also recommend trying light-colored braids for a soft yet striking effect in your kid’s box braids.

NO-RULES STYLES

Box braids are beloved by both adults and kids alike, and their versatility knows no bounds. There are no strict rules when it comes to styling these braids, as new and creative variations are constantly being discovered around the world. Here are some unique braid styles that break away from tradition. We hope you and your little one will love them!

KIDDIES BRAID HAIRSTYLES

Just like adult women, kids have a vast array of hairstyles to choose from, many of which defy categorization. Here are some uniquely designed box-braided styles for your little ones. These braids are beautifully adorned with beads, hair bows, and more. Meanwhile, jumbo braids, side-swept styles, updos, and half ponytails add an extra layer of charm to their look.

BOHO BRAIDS FOR KIDS

Bohemian braids, also known as boho or gypsy braids, combine traditional square-shaped box braids with curls. These styles aren’t just for adults; they can look equally charming on kids. Boho braids offer a customizable look, allowing you to adjust the thickness, length, style, color, and accessories to suit your preferences. If you’re searching for a lovely braid style for your child, bohemian braids could be a fantastic choice.

PURPLE BRAIDS

Here’s another vibrant option for coloring your child’s braids. While purple braids, like red braids, are less common among kids, their rarity doesn’t diminish their appeal. We’ve gathered four stunning box braid styles featuring purple hues that are sure to catch your eye. Plus, you can enhance these styles with traditional accessories like criss-cross rubber bands and glass beads.

KNOTLESS BOX BRAIDS

Knotless braids are a unique variation of traditional braided styles. Unlike conventional braids that start with a knot at the root, knotless braids are created without knots. This approach reduces tension on the scalp and helps prevent hair damage and breakage. You can still adorn and accessorize knotless braids just like traditional box braids. If you’re considering knotless braids for your child, explore the following creative and accessorized styles.

KIDS RED BOX BRAIDS

Vibrant shades like spicy red, burgundy, or fiery red can add a magical touch to your child’s hairstyle. Using these colors for red highlights can give her a stunning look. To achieve this effect, combining box braids with these eye-catching colors is key. While red box braids are less common among kids, they are far from being overlooked. Believe me, your child will look even cuter with these bold red hues than with traditional box braid styles.

FULANI BRAIDS FOR KIDS

If you want your child to sport both cornrows and box braids simultaneously, Fulani braids are the ideal choice. These braids feature cornrows at the front and box braids at the back, offering a stylish and versatile look. You can enhance these braids with charming beads, hair bows, ribbons, and rubber bands to further elevate the hairstyle. Additionally, a ponytail or half ponytail pairs beautifully with Fulani braids. Below, you’ll find four of the best styles for kids to try.

CROCHET BOX BRAIDS

Unlike traditional box braids, crochet box braids are easy to create and maintain. They reduce tension on the scalp and promote healthy hair growth, making them an excellent choice for kids. Crochet braids can be either box braids or twisted braids, but we recommend the classic box braids for your child. Simply cornrow your child’s natural hair and use a crochet needle to attach pre-braided or pre-twisted extensions. The final result will resemble the styles shown in the images below.

SHOULDER LENGTH BOX BRAIDS (BRAIDED BOB)

In addition to long single braids, your little ones can rock shoulder-length box braids or braided bob hairstyles for a charming look. The blend of their innocent faces with these stylish hairstyles will make them appear more confident, cute, and adorable. Individual braids can be accessorized with a variety of embellishments, so consider adding some beads to enhance their look. For extra flair, we recommend curling the edges of the braids. The combination of kinky edges, a bob style, and shoulder-length braids can create a heavenly appearance, as shown in the images below.

LONG BRAIDS, CUTE ANGELS

Kids can definitely wear long braids, and sometimes hip-length braids can be even more stunning than other styles. There are numerous variations of long box braids, including curly styles and goddess braids. To give your child an angelic look, consider adding colorful beads to the tips of the braids and incorporating bright highlights, like yellow, for extra flair.

Below, you’ll find examples of long box braids that combine curly edges, vibrant beads, and highlights. This combination can make your child look like a heavenly angel.

KIDS’ BOX BRAIDS WITH RUBBER BANDS

Crisscross rubber bands can add a fantastic touch to kids’ box braids, enhancing any style, whether it’s goddess braids, triangular box braids, square box braids, or more. These accessories come in various colors, allowing for a customizable and eye-catching look. As shown in the images below, rubber bands beautifully complement any box braid design and style, adding a unique and stylish flair.

PONYTAILS ARE ALWAYS AWESOME WITH BRAIDS

Ponytails are a beloved and versatile hairstyle worn by people of all ages, from kids to adults, and they work wonderfully with natural hair, locks, curls, and braids. They’re not only cute but also easy to style and can be enhanced with various accessories.

For African-American kids, ponytails combined with box braids offer a stylish and practical option. You can transform box braids into playful ponytails that are perfect for school, outings, and parties. These easy-to-create hairstyles save time while providing a charming look. Additionally, accessorizing with beads, hair bows, bands, and other embellishments can add a unique touch to your child’s braided ponytail.

KIDS’ BRAIDS AND TOPKNOTS

Previously, we explored double knots with braids for African-American kids. Similarly, single-knotted hairstyles with box braids are also a fantastic option. While the styles and designs are quite similar, both single and double knots offer an adorable look.

Single-knotted box braids can be accessorized with beads, ribbons, hair bands, and bows. Below, you’ll find some charming designs of single-knotted box braid hairstyles for ebony girls. We’re confident that these styles will catch your eye and be a great choice for your little ones.

For many years, adult women have favored bun and updo hairstyles for special events like weddings and birthday parties.

Nowadays, buns are a popular choice not just for women, but for men and kids too. Buns paired with braids, curls, locks, and various accessories have become trendy. This makes braided bun hairstyles an excellent option for your school-going kids as well.

These styles offer both hair protection and a pretty look for your child. Below are some braided bun hairstyles for kids, designed using the classic box braid technique. You can further personalize these styles by adding beads, hair bows, ribbons, and other fun accessories.

FAQ

1. Are Box Braids Good for Kids?
Absolutely! Box braids are a fantastic protective hairstyle for kids. They help to moisturize the natural hair, reduce breakage, and promote healthy growth. The benefits of box braids are applicable to all ages, making them a great choice for children.

2. How Long Can Kids Keep Box Braids In?
While adults can typically wear box braids for 6 to 8 weeks, it’s best for kids to wear them for a shorter period. Ideally, kids should keep box braids in for 2 to 6 weeks, or up to 45 days. Wearing them longer can risk damage to their delicate hair and scalp.

3. Is There an Age Limit for Braids?
Yes, it’s generally recommended that kids start wearing box braids around ages 7 to 10. Some experts suggest that children aged 10 to 12 are best suited for this style. However, younger children can also wear box braids if they are installed with low tension to the scalp.

4. How Much Hair Does It Take for Kids’ Box Braids?
The amount of hair needed depends on the type of hair extensions you use. For Kanekalon hair, you will need 3-5 packs. For X-pressions hair, 2-3 packs should be sufficient.

5. How to Style Box Braids for Kids?
There are many creative styles for box braids, including Box Braids with Glass Beads, Goddess Box Braids, Braided Buns, Jumbo Braids, Braided Knots, Ribbons and Hair Bows, Colorful Braids, Topknots, Ponytails, Rubber Bands, Hip-Length Braids, Shoulder-Length (Bob) Braids, Crochet Braids, Red Box Braids, Purple Braids, Fulani Braids, and Knotless Braids.

6. How Old Should a Child Be to Get Box Braids?
Experts recommend starting box braids at ages 7-10. While younger children can also wear them, it’s important to ensure that the braids are installed with minimal tension to avoid damage.

7. Can a 3-Year-Old Get Box Braids?
While it’s possible to style a 3-year-old’s hair with box braids, it can be risky due to the sensitivity of their scalp. If you choose to do so, make sure the braids are done with very low tension to minimize potential damage.

8. Are Box Braids Safe?
Yes, box braids are generally safe and widely used by people of all ages. They are a protective hairstyle that can help reduce breakage and promote healthy hair growth. However, it’s important to avoid wearing them for more than 6 to 8 weeks to prevent 9. potential damage.

9. At What Age Can Kids Get Box Braids?
Box braids are usually recommended for children aged 7-10. While some younger kids do wear them, it’s crucial to ensure that the braids are applied with low tension to avoid harming their delicate hair and scalp.

CONCLUSION

Box braids offer a versatile and stylish solution for kids’ hair, perfect for any occasion. From the playground’s carefree energy to the glitz and glam of parties, there’s a box braid style for every adventure. These protective hairstyles not only look adorable but also keep your child’s hair healthy and manageable. So, unleash your little one’s inner fashionista and explore the endless possibilities of box braids! Remember to prioritize your child’s comfort and hair health when choosing a style. Happy braiding!

90S MOVIES FASHION: TIMELESS TRENDS AND THEIR MODERN INFLUENCES

Over the past two decades, the fashion of the 90s has remained a timeless source of inspiration for both designers and movie enthusiasts. With 90s trends firmly back in vogue, now is the perfect time to revisit some of the decade’s most stylish movie characters. From Cher Horowitz’s iconic yellow plaid ensemble to Mia Wallace’s classic white button-up shirt and The Dude’s cozy Pendleton cardigan, these legendary outfits have influenced countless runway shows and Halloween costumes since they first graced the silver screen over twenty years ago.

ROMEO & JULIET, 1996

The 1996 adaptation of Shakespeare’s iconic tragedy Romeo and Juliet reimagines the classic tale by replacing its traditional Italian countryside setting and Elizabethan costumes with a vibrant seaside town called Verona Beach, complete with Hawaiian shirts. Even if Shakespeare isn’t your usual preference, the poignant romance between a young, charismatic Leonardo DiCaprio and Claire Danes makes it a worthwhile watch for a Friday night.

The film features striking costumes designed by Kym Barrett, the renowned costume designer known for her work on The Matrix trilogy, Cloud Atlas, and Aquaman. Tybalt’s crew, portrayed by John Leguizamo and his gang, wears custom pieces from the now-defunct Dolce & Gabbana diffusion line, inspired by Latin gangs in Los Angeles and Mexico City during the early 90s. In contrast, Romeo and his friends sport unbuttoned Hawaiian shirts, loose cargo pants, worn-out Converse sneakers, and brightly colored hair, perfectly capturing their youthful, rebellious spirit.

DAZED AND CONFUSED, 1993

Dazed and Confused takes us back to a Texas high school in 1976, following a group of lovable hippies on their final day of school. While the film is widely recognized as a breakout role for future stars like Matthew McConaughey, Ben Affleck, Parker Posey, and Milla Jovovich, it’s costume designer Katherine Dover’s keen eye for vintage fashion that truly shines.

The film features a delightful blend of 90s and 70s styles, predominantly showcasing authentic vintage pieces from the era, such as flared jeans, platform clogs, and peasant blouses, all of which remain stylish today. Each character’s distinct personal style signals their clique affiliation and hints at just how many times they’ll indulge throughout the film. So, it goes without saying that we wholeheartedly recommend rolling a joint or two while you enjoy this classic!

FIGHT CLUB, 1999

While the first rule of Fight Club is to avoid discussing it, we’re breaking that rule to shine a light on the film’s iconic costumes. This cult classic follows a nameless narrator (Edward Norton) as he spirals deeper into the chaotic world of soap-maker Tyler Durden (Brad Pitt) and his underground fight club.

The film’s dark narrative and carefully curated costumes reflect its anti-establishment themes and critique of capitalist consumer culture. Tyler’s striking blood-red leather jacket, low-slung pants, and eclectic prints create a stark contrast to the narrator’s ill-fitting suits and Marla Singer’s (Helena Bonham Carter) shabby-chic, dumpster-diving style.

In the twenty-plus years since Fight Club was released, numerous designers have drawn inspiration from its dark satire. Shortly after the film debuted in 1999, Donatella Versace labeled the brand’s Fall 2000 collection as “a Fight Club collection,” although the designs bore little resemblance to the film’s costumes. Additionally, Jean-Paul Gaultier took cues from this cult classic for his Fall 2010 collaboration with Everlast, featuring a boxing-inspired collection complete with mesh tank tops, ringside robes, track pants, and leather jackets.

NEVER BEEN KISSED, 1999

Never Been Kissed wouldn’t be the same without its campy, over-the-top 90s fashion, crafted by the legendary costume designer Mona May. The rom-com follows copy editor Josie Gellar (Drew Barrymore) as she goes undercover as a high school student, reliving the traumas of her own past through a series of flashbacks to her days as “Josie Gross-ie.”

The film’s costumes reflect Josie’s journey from an awkward teenager to a confident young adult. Her exaggerated 80s prom dress and the white feather-trimmed outfit she wears on her first day of school illustrate her struggles to fit in and become someone she’s not. In contrast, her pink lace dress in the final scene signifies her realization of who she truly is, marking her transformation and acceptance of herself.

BASIC INSTINCT, 1992

Basic Instinct embodies all the elements of a thrilling crime drama, featuring steamy encounters, brutal murder, and irresistible 90s style. The film follows detective Nick Curran (Michael Douglas) as he investigates the murder of a former rock star, becoming romantically involved with the primary suspect, the seductive and manipulative novelist Catherine Tramell (Sharon Stone).

While Catherine’s iconic turtleneck dress and white shawl overcoat from the infamous leg-crossing interrogation scene is undoubtedly the standout costume, all of her minimalist 90s outfits are enviably stylish. Costume designer Ellen Mirojnick drew inspiration for the film’s lead characters from the glamorous blonde bombshells and sophisticated suits found in Hitchcock classics like Dial M for Murder, To Catch a Thief, and Rear Window. Catherine’s wardrobe features light colors, relaxed silhouettes, and simple knits, providing a refreshing contrast to the typical skintight black ensembles worn by femme fatale characters in Hollywood.

“I thought the costumes and the look of the film were extremely classic,” Mirojnick remarked in an interview with Clothes on Film. “The contemporary feel of the film is even more relevant today. It is a timeless piece.”

THE BIG LEBOWSKI, 1998

At first glance, The Big Lebowski may not appear to be a fashion triumph, but its relaxed stoner style has achieved legendary status. The film follows “the Dude” (Jeff Bridges), a laid-back slacker who enjoys pot, White Russians, and bowling with his friends as they navigate a high-stakes case of mistaken identity. The Dude’s wardrobe, featuring bowling shirts, jelly sandals, a tattered bathrobe, unkempt long hair, stretched-out t-shirts, slouchy board shorts, and faded zip-up hoodies, perfectly embodies the anti-fashion aesthetic of carefree hippies and middle-aged men in the late 90s and early 2000s.

Over the past two decades, the Dude’s Pendleton Westerly cardigan has become an iconic symbol of the film. Costume designer Mary Zophres explained, “One of the first lines in the script describes the Dude as ‘terminally relaxed.’ That says a lot! So I decided the Dude would wear a lot of elastic waists so he doesn’t have to bother with buttons; he never wears a button-down shirt either, just things that pull over his head and a lot of knits.” The humble Dude sweater gained such popularity among fans that Pendleton even relaunched it as part of their permanent The Dude’s Collection.

THELMA & LOUISE, 1991

Thelma & Louise follows two best friends on a joyride through the desert as they escape their pasts and elude the police. The film’s straightforward yet impactful costumes, designed by the late Elizabeth McBride, effectively highlight the contrasts between Thelma (Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon) while reflecting their personal evolution throughout the narrative. Plus, they help make young Brad Pitt look like an absolute heartthrob.

As the film progresses, both characters’ styles transform from sweet and feminine to tough and masculine as they shed their old lives. Thelma starts off as a naive housewife in frilly white blouses and silky florals, but as she discovers her freedom, her wardrobe shifts to grungy denim, baseball caps, and basic tees. Similarly, Louise trades her waitress uniform for masculine white tees, aviators, and jeans that challenge gender norms, perfectly capturing her tough, rebellious spirit.

ROMY AND MICHELE’S HIGH SCHOOL REUNION, 1997

Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion is undoubtedly one of the ultimate 90s fashion films. This campy comedy follows stylish best friends Romy White (Mira Sorvino) and Michele Weinberger (Lisa Kudrow) as they concoct an elaborate lie to impress their former classmates at their ten-year high school reunion. Kudrow and Sorvino’s playful mini skirts, cherry accessories, sky-high platform heels, and perfectly coordinated outfits define their characters as the quintessential ditzy blondes with enviable 90s style.

As with many iconic 90s films, the costumes were designed by Mona May, the stylist behind other sartorial gems like The Wedding Singer, Clueless, A Night at the Roxbury, and Never Been Kissed. Throughout the film, Romy and Michele undergo nearly 50 outfit changes, showcasing everything from feather-trimmed spandex mini dresses to chic mini skirts and crop tops, and even Madonna-inspired 80s prom ensembles.

PRETTY WOMAN, 1990

Pretty Woman encapsulates everything you could desire from a 90s romantic comedy: love, extravagant shopping sprees, a successful businessman who is both charming and kind, and, of course, Julia Roberts. However, beneath its cliché tropes lies a film that earned Roberts her first Oscar nomination for Best Actress and secured a BAFTA for Best Costume Design for the talented Marilyn Vance.

This modern-day “prince and the pauper” tale follows Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts) as she evolves from streetwalker to Hollywood socialite after encountering millionaire Edward Lewis (Richard Gere). Vivian’s stylish 90s wardrobe beautifully reflects her transformation and serves as a reminder not to judge appearances. “When she meets Richard Gere’s character, she notices how neat and stylish he is, prompting her own wardrobe to become more minimalist,” Vance explained in an interview with Vogue France.

At the film’s outset, Vivian can be seen in a go-go-inspired cut-out mini dress, complete with a newsboy cap and thigh-high boots as she navigates Hollywood Boulevard. A blonde wig conceals her signature red locks, symbolizing her hidden identity during this phase of her life. By the film’s conclusion, Roberts’ natural curls are elegantly cascading down her shoulders, highlighting her stunning off-the-shoulder red opera gown and that iconic necklace—boasting $1.35 million worth of pear-cut rubies set in diamond-encrusted hearts. This outfit perfectly embodies her metamorphosis and remains one of the film’s most unforgettable fashion moments.

POETIC JUSTICE, 1993

Set against the backdrop of a predominantly white film industry in the 90s, Poetic Justice delivers a vital dose of Black Girl Magic while exploring the effects of violence in Black communities. Directed by John Singleton, this film serves as a follow-up to his Oscar-nominated work Boyz n the Hood and follows Justice (Janet Jackson), a hairdresser grappling with the murder of her boyfriend Markell (Q-Tip). As she navigates her grief through poetry, she builds relationships with her friend Iesha (Regina King) and a young postal clerk named Lucky (Tupac Shakur).

The film’s costumes, designed by John Lemons and Sharlene Williams, capture the essence of early 90s Black fashion. Justice’s signature style features long box braids, baggy jeans, crop tops, hoop earrings, sports jerseys, and an oversized newsboy cap, creating a relaxed, homegirl-next-door vibe. This aesthetic not only defines her character but also sets the tone for women’s hip-hop fashion that would resonate for decades to come.

FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS, 1998

Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, based on Hunter S. Thompson’s 1971 novel, follows Raoul Duke (Johnny Depp) and his companion Dr. Gonzo (Benicio del Toro) on a wild, psychedelic drug-fueled journey to Las Vegas. Thompson famously advised, “The only way to prepare for a trip like this was to dress up like human peacocks and get crazy then screech off across the desert.”

Costume designer Julie Weiss embraced this eccentric vision, meticulously capturing Thompson’s unique personal style—from the plastic cigarette holder to the outrageous vacation outfits. The film features iconic pieces like yellow aviators, Hawaiian shirts, bucket hats, a patchwork cardigan, khaki shorts, and well-worn white Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars, all of which could easily have been pulled from Thompson’s own closet. In preparation for his role, Depp even lived in Thompson’s basement for four months, during which Thompson personally shaved Depp’s head to fully immerse him in the character.

PULP FICTION, 1994

The 90s cult classic Pulp Fiction weaves together the stories of two mob hitmen, a gangster and his stylish wife, a boxer, and various other criminals in Los Angeles. Critic Roger Ebert famously remarked that it was “either one of the year’s best films or the worst.” Like many Quentin Tarantino films, Pulp Fiction delivers a blend of violence, sharp dialogue, and quirky characters that inspire memorable Halloween costumes. And who could forget the iconic dance scene featuring John Travolta and Uma Thurman?

Costume designer Betsy Heimann drew inspiration from Japanese manga and Tarantino’s earlier film, Reservoir Dogs, to craft the film’s minimalist aesthetic. Mia Wallace (Uma Thurman) embodies a chic yet rebellious spirit in her white button-up shirt and cropped black pants, echoing the simple black suit, long hair, and bolo tie worn by Vincent Vega (John Travolta).

In an interview with Vogue, Heimann explained, “Mia Wallace: wife of the big boss, tons of money, but inside she’s kind of a bad girl. She wants these guys to like her. She’s totally barred from interacting with any man, so she has a chance to go out one night with Vincent, and she’s like, Well, I’m going to show them I’m a Reservoir Dog like they are.”

CRUEL INTENTIONS, 1999

From Kathryn Merteuil’s (Sarah Michelle Gellar) corset dress to Sebastian Valmont’s (Ryan Phillippe) impossibly stylish rimless glasses, the chic costumes in Cruel Intentions perfectly capture the essence of minimalist 90s fashion. This sexy teen drama explores the love triangles and revenge schemes of two step-siblings as they attempt to seduce the new girl at their Manhattan prep school. The film artfully balances innocence and power through its school uniforms and revealing outfits.

Costume designer Denise Wingate, known for her work on 90s classics like Melrose Place, She’s All That, and The Sweetest Thing, aligned each character’s style with their personality. The menacing step-siblings, Kathryn and Sebastian, predominantly wear dark colors, sexy silhouettes, and power suits that reflect their privileged status. In contrast, more virtuous characters like Annette Hargrove (played by a young Reese Witherspoon) and Cecile Caldwell (Selma Blair) sport lighter colors, conservative cuts, and preppy Upper East Side cardigans, highlighting their innocence and naivety. This contrast is famously exemplified in the film’s iconic kiss scene between Sarah Michelle Gellar and Selma Blair, which beautifully underscores this duality.

THE MATRIX, 1999

Like many science-fiction films, The Matrix uses its futuristic costumes to reflect the progressive themes and boundary-pushing social commentary woven throughout its storyline. Costume designer Kym Barrett emphasizes that every element of the film’s monochrome black outfits carries meaning. “It was all about how to create a language that the audience could clue into what we were doing subconsciously,” she explained, also noting her work on the sequels, The Matrix Reloaded and The Matrix Revolutions.

The 1999 film, featuring Keanu Reeves, Carrie-Anne Moss, and Laurence Fishburne, follows computer hacker Neo (Reeves) as he uncovers the truth about a reality manipulated by deceptive cyber-intelligence. The long leather coats, lug-sole boots, and skinny sunglasses encapsulate the anarchist, rebellious spirit of the film’s bullet-dodging heroes. Barrett compares the long leather coats to superhero capes, stating, “They can move in an almost gravity-defying way. They can jump across buildings; they can almost fly. I wanted to find a modern version of something that could move like a cape, so that’s where the coats were born.”

Over the past two decades, The Matrix’s rebellious themes and iconic all-black costumes have continued to inspire designers, celebrities, and fashionable movie buffs alike. John Galliano, for instance, cited being “deeply inspired by The Matrix” when creating the PVC coats and futuristic dresses for Christian Dior’s Fall 1999 Couture collection.

CLUELESS, 1995

When discussing 90s movie fashion, there’s no better starting point than Clueless. This campy coming-of-age story follows Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) and her partner in crime, Dionne (Stacey Dash), as they give their new friend Tai (Brittany Murphy) a much-needed makeover and help her navigate love. Cher alone sports over 30 different outfits throughout the film, ranging from argyle mini skirts to skimpy red tank dresses and sheer organza button-ups. Despite her casual name-dropping of high-end designers like Alaïa and Calvin Klein, many of the costumes were sourced from malls and thrift shops, thanks to the costume department’s limited budget.

Since its release in 1995, Clueless’s iconic plaid outfits—especially the yellow plaid skirt and blazer Cher selects from her futuristic closet in the opening scene—have cemented their status as some of the most influential movie costumes in fashion history. Over the past two decades, designers from Donatella Versace to Michael Kors have offered their own modern takes on Cher’s 90s style, featuring bright-colored plaid prints, slip dresses, mini skirts, and knee-high socks. “We really wanted to do the plaid because it was the quintessential schoolgirl outfit,” stylist Mona May explained in an interview with Vogue.

CONCLUSION

The 90s, a decade of cultural renaissance, left an indelible mark on fashion that continues to resonate today. From grunge to minimalism, the trends that emerged during this time have evolved and reemerged, influencing contemporary styles.

The enduring appeal of 90s fashion lies in its authenticity and rebellion. It was a time of experimentation and self-expression, resulting in iconic looks that captured the spirit of the era. As we look back on these trends, we can appreciate their timeless quality and the impact they have had on modern fashion.

Whether it’s the effortless cool of grunge, the minimalist elegance of slip dresses, or the nostalgic charm of chokers, the 90s fashion legacy continues to inspire designers and fashion enthusiasts alike. The trends of this decade serve as a testament to the cyclical nature of fashion, reminding us that while styles may come and go, the essence of what makes them enduring remains constant.