Brought on by the 80s and 90s grunge music such as bands like Nirvana, Pearl James and Alice in Chain, inspired a whole new trend that made a pretty big and unique fashion statement. Soon after, this grunge and alternative style of clothing became something of a personal nature that people used to express themselves. Historically grunge style outfits had that rebellious, “i don’t care”, attitude, and i’m so different than everyone else vibe… So, how do you dress grunge?
There a few items you’re going to need when trying to style a grunge outfit and maintain that bad boy/bad girl aesthetic. These are going to include distressed jeans, dark black tops and bottoms, booties, mesh tops, patterned jeans and bralettes. We’ve even linked a few of these items that you can get off of Amazon!
Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Stick with dark or black shades of clothes.
- Leather pieces can make a big statement.
- Cool accessories like chains and bracelets can add oomph to your look.
- Ripped T’s, leggings, tights and jeans look effortless and cool.
- Mesh & layers are going to be your best friend.
- Learn to walk in platform booties!
Outfit Ideas
Grunge Tops
Layer your tops with a cute bralette under a mesh t-shirt for a cool look, or opt for an all black tank top. T-shirts and tank tops with band logos are a must to achieve that grunge look; this will include graphic tees. If the focus of your outfit is the top then go for something that you like and speaks to you. A cropped top will also add a layer of flavor if you’re wanting to show a little more skin.
Grunge Bottoms
Distressed black and grey jeans are a staple in anyone’s closet who wants to achieve that grunge aesthetic. Let’s go with layers again, extreme distressed jeans with fishnet tights underneath. Or go for a denim skirt with black stockings which is a must-have look. Take it a step farther and add some accessries to it like a chain or choker necklace.
Tip: With skirts, go for some platform booties & if you’re wearing jeans, pair it with some sneakers.
All black outfit
An all-black outfit is a no brainer when trying to achieve that grunge look and aesthetic. It’s popular in many different fashion senses like punk, goth and alternative styles. You can’t deny that black looks good on anyone, and can be worn for many different occasions. A black jacket, black combat boots with an all black bodysuit will make the perfect outfit. Some flare jeans with a distressed band tee is a simple look that anyone can achieve with minimal effort.
Statement Piece Accessories
Accessories can make or break an outfit. If you’re missing that one little piece to put your outfit together, then look no further. For grunge looks, chains, chokers, and spikes/studs are all apart of this fashion trend. Chokers were popular in the 90s and they’re slowly making a comeback now. Studded belts are also a must-have and so are thicker chains.
Boots, Booties & Sneakers
The higher the platform the more of a statement you’re going to be making. Booties are simple and go with every outfit which includes jeans, or skirts, or with leggings as well. Heeled booties will also give your legs a longer appearance and have a unique look that adds a little ‘punk’ to any outfit. Plus, platforms are super comfortable!
Patterned Bottoms
Going for jeans and bottoms that have a pattern can be a way to express your own unique style while maintaining that grunge, punk and alternative aesthetic. Checkered style pants, or jeans with stickers will make your outfit something that is stylish, hels expresses your style, and it’s totally in right now. Patches can be a way to style your jeans and bottoms, which is simple to achieve and you have many different options to choose from.
