The '90s Occasionwear Trends to Add to a Modern Wardrobe

The ‘90s has been forever known in fashion for its directional attitude, with many illustrious styles still prevalent in today’s world. That’s why Karen Millen has once again collaborated with fashion archivists, OOTO London to introduce a new occasion wear collection, with a focus on fluid silhouettes, dynamic movement and feminine accents.

Masterfully combining past and present, this collection draws on the iconic design codes of the ‘90s. The tone is confident, yet effortless. The pieces are powerful, yet romantic. Destined to be worn for decades to come, these designs promise to leave a lasting impression at every occasion.

OOTO London describe the collection as "a contemporary and accessible take on ‘90s vintage." Take a deep dive into the trends that inspired the KM X OOTO London collaboration, as told by them.

Draped in Decadence

Calling for a return to effortless dressing, draped shapes are threaded throughout the collection. Creating an almost liquid-like fluidity that naturally flatters the form, these designs look majestic without feeling overly loud. It’s the simplistic elegance of these pieces that make them exceptionally special. Pair them with strappy heels and simple accessories for a timeless occasion wear outfit.

The '90s Slip Dress

Seen on both runways and red carpets alike, the barley-there slip dress is one of the most unforgettable styles of the period. In this latest collection, bias-cut slip dresses are crafted with lustrous satin, creating a sleek and sophisticated look that is quintessential of the era. Today, this minimalist style still brings a certain edge to an occasion outfit, be it for a trip to the races, a romantic evening out or a wedding.

Tell us about the '90s silhouettes that inspired this collection

“Inspired by Haute Couture draping and an interpretation of bias-cut slip dresses from the 1990s (for the most part in turn inspired by Madeleine Vionnet in the 1920s). The demand for bias-cut slip dresses in the 1990s led Anna Wintour to comment that they were ‘a symbol of what women wore at night’ in the nineties.” – OOTO London

Romanticism Meets Modernism

The vision behind this dress, as described by OOTO London, was to give “a contemporary feel to the 1990s monochrome colour palette.” The ‘90s saw a rise in minimalist fashion, in which a polished aesthetic was revered above all else. This mood can be seen within this design; however, the addition of floral embellishments adds a feminine twist that still feels elevated and timeless.

Flowing Fringe

Fringe is undergoing a fashion revival, seen everywhere from festivals to black-tie weddings. The fringe dresses within this collection “add texture and movement to an iconic 1990s aesthetic” says OOTO. With cascading tassels that create a moment of drama met with bohemian glamour, these pieces are certainly worthy of the spotlight.

How does it feel to collaborate with Karen Millen again?

“We are delighted to collaborate once more with the UK’s leading womenswear heritage brand. We love that the Karen Millen woman is able to experience a contemporary interpretation of a high-end luxury vintage product from the 1990s.” - OOTO London