Winter Layering the 90s Way ❄️
Winter is officially here, which means it’s time to bring out the layers—and no one did layering better than the 90s. From oversized denim to chunky outerwear and bold streetwear silhouettes, the decade gave us some of the most iconic cold-weather looks in fashion history. At Hella Thrifty, we’re all about reviving those nostalgic vibes while keeping your winter wardrobe functional, warm, and stylish.
Whether you’re dressing for holiday outings, cozy weekend hangs, or winter date nights, here’s how to master 90s-inspired layering with pieces you can shop right now.
Oversized Denim Jackets: A 90s Staple That Works All Winter
Nothing screams 90s style like a perfectly oversized denim jacket. Think TLC, Aaliyah, and your favorite 90s rom-coms. The key to winter layering is volume + warmth, so look for relaxed, baggy silhouettes, light or medium wash denim, distressed or lived-in finishes — and sherpa-lined interiors if you want extra warmth.
How to layer it: Pair your denim jacket with a turtleneck, crewneck sweatshirt, or even a vintage tee from Hella Thrifty. Add a beanie and chunky boots for an effortless streetwear look.
Puffer Coats: Iconic, Cozy, and Back for Good
The 90s delivered the puffer era we still love today — big silhouettes, bold colors, and practical warmth. This season, go for oversized puffers, cropped puff jackets for a streetwear edge, in colors like red, cobalt, metallic or keep it classic with neutrals.
How to wear it 90s-style: Layer puffers over baggy jeans or parachute pants. Add a Hella Thrifty hoodie underneath to balance the silhouette while staying warm and street ready.
Crewnecks, Flannels & Hoodies: The Ultimate Layering Trio
Classic 90s layering basics — flannels, thick crewnecks, and boxy hoodies — are your building blocks for cold-weather fits. They pair effortlessly with outerwear.
- Flannel over a graphic tee
- Hoodie under an oversized coat
- Vintage crewneck with wide-leg jeans
- Mix textures for that effortless, “threw-it-on” vibe
Hella Thrifty’s reworked crewnecks and vintage sportswear pieces are perfect for building this layered foundation.
Baggy Denim & Cargo Pants: Winter’s Most Versatile Base Layer
Denim is a year-round essential, but winter is the time to go baggy, straight-leg, and relaxed. The 90s silhouette not only gives you that nostalgic vibe, but also lets you layer tights or leggings underneath when temperatures drop.
90s winter bottom picks: High-rise baggy jeans, carpenter pants, cargos, utility pants, wide-leg distressed denim. Pair them with statement coats, puffers, or longline trenches for maximum 90s drama.
Statement Outerwear: Shearling, Leather, and Trench Coats
Winter layering isn’t complete without a statement coat. In the 90s, outerwear wasn’t just practical — it was a mood. For this season’s throwbacks, look for faux shearling coats, oversized leather jackets, longline trench coats, varsity/letterman jackets, or vintage military-inspired coats.
These pieces instantly elevate any outfit and add warmth without sacrificing style.
Accessories: The Small Details That Make the Look
90s winter accessories were bold, playful, and functional. Use accessories to finish your layered fit and add personality. Consider:
- Chunky scarves
- Knitted beanies
- Retro earmuffs
- Small shoulder bags / crossbody bags
- Hoop earrings (always a classic!)
Your 90s Winter Edit — Shop the Look
If you're ready to build your winter wardrobe, we’ve curated some of our favorite 90s-inspired layers — from track jackets and hoodies to reworked crewnecks and thrifted coats — all in one place. Stay warm, stylish, and hella nostalgic this season.
