Photo via @aliciafranzen
From the quirky romance of “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” to the timeless love story in “When Harry Met Sally,” these delightfully cheesy romantic comedies have left an indelible mark on modern fashion. Some may call it the “main character syndrome” or the influence of the Y2K fashion revival, but there’s an undeniable trend: we’re all channeling our inner rom-com heroines through style. This translates to embracing the iconic 90’s movies by adorning ourselves in minimalist slip dresses, cute baby tees, low-waist jeans, and more. After all, aren’t we all on a quest for our own happily ever after? Why not draw inspiration from the romantic aesthetics of these films? The revival of rom-com core outfits couldn’t be more timely, especially as autumn arrives. The fusion of contemporary trends with the nostalgia of the 90’s fashion creates a perfect harmony for this season. If you’re eager to fall head-over-heels for your wardrobe, here are 10 rom-com core outfits to ignite the mood for love.
Photo via @lena_helenabusch
1) Leather Jacket + Slip Dress
Slip dresses dominated the 90’s and they often found their way into some of the most popular rom-com movies. The dainty, feminine vibes of this minimal one-piece were practically made for the likable female main character. This fall, a delicate slip dress is calling your name. To make it more approachable and optimal for everyday wear, simply layer with a coordinating moto jacket and a pair of sensible boots.
Photo via @itsyuyann
2) Double Leather
While leather is always pertinent each fall, it certainly shined back in the day. This beloved fabrication took the form of jackets, skirts, pants, and more. As the temperatures dip, consider bundling up with leather accents. An oversized leather jacket, especially ones that look worn-in and well loved, is perfect for topping off any outfit. Double down by pairing it with some equally chic leather boots.
Photo via @aimiracleqiqii
3) Maxi Skirt
Few things exude romance like gracefully wandering in a flowing, floor-kissing skirt. Over the past year, maxi skirts have taken the stage, warmly welcomed by enthusiasts of rom-com chic. This influencer takes it up a notch, coupling the skirt with a flattering corset top and elevating the look with chunky platform boots for added height and a hint of edginess.
Photo via @shayanarex
4) Eclectic Layers
Without a doubt, 90’s fashion had a penchant for layering and mixing diverse styles. Rom-com ensembles from that era often boasted an eclectic blend of various aesthetics in a single look. Embracing a more contemporary take on this, Shay showcased her style by pairing army green cargo pants with a crisp white button-up and a strategically layered corset top. The result? A whimsical yet romantic fusion that caters to those seeking a distinctive approach to this trend.
Photo via @naomiroestel
5) Low Rise
Romance and lace go hand in hand, making it an ideal choice to reminisce about your beloved nostalgic movies. It’s worth noting that during the 90’s, lace often graced low-rise bottoms, like jeans or mini skirts, adding to the allure of that era’s fashion. Today, any versatile lace top can beautifully complement a variety of bottoms, seamlessly transitioning from jeans to a flirty mini skirt. For the fall season, take a page from this influencer and spotlight a bell-sleeved lace top with flared leggings.
Photo via @daisybirchalll
6) Crop It
Tackle nostalgic dressing with none other than a crop top and baggy bottom combination. This particular look leans more androgynous than feminine, but it still reads fun and flirty, making it perfect for living out your romantic-comedy dreams. Consider this the perfect autumnal look for your next date to the pumpkin patch or to the drive-in movie theater. Don’t forget the oversized leather jacket as you jet out the door.
Photo via @chaileeson
7) Mad for Plaid
There’s hardly a more iconic coming-of-age movie than Clueless. When you think of the main character, Cher Horowitz, you are most likely picturing her wearing a plaid matching set. For a subtle tribute to this 90’s cultural icon, don your best plaid outfit. While co-ord sets always make for a seamless outfit, you can achieve the same aesthetic with a plaid printed mini dress.
Photo via @chloelecareux
8) Blazer Dress
For those who are obsessed with all things quiet luxury, we have the rom-com inspired look for you. Embody Pretty Woman vibes with a tailored blazer dress. For those who don’t know, blazers in all forms were a dominating force in fashion during the 90’s, and this dress pays homage to that influential era while adding a contemporary twist. Simply finish off the look with a pair of kitten heels.
Photo via @kendalldair
9) 90’s Accessories
While the outfit itself is obviously important if you want to nail the rom-com core aesthetic, the accessories are just as critical to an effective ensemble. A vintage-inspired shoulder bag and a pair of kitten heels are necessities for making this vision come to life. But just as important is your hairstyle. A slicked-back updo fastened by a claw clip is what makes this outfit rom-com approved.
Photo via @michellemdriscoll
10) Denim Maxi
Upgrade your jeans to a denim maxi skirt this season. While the latter is just as easy to style, the end result is undeniably more polished. Additionally, nothing sends you on a trip down memory lane more than a skinny scarf. This “useless” accessory was an early 2000’s must-have accessory and perfect for adding an autumnal touch to your rom-com core maxi skirt outfit.
