18 Fashion Trends from the ’90s That Are Shockingly Expensive Now

Growing up in the ’90s meant wearing some of the coolest and most unique fashion pieces ever created. Many people owned these items back then, buying them from local stores at regular prices – but today, these same pieces have become incredibly valuable collector’s items that fashion lovers desperately hunt down. Original pieces from this unique decade have become serious investments, proving that fashion truly stands the test of time.

Platform Buffalo Sneakers

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These chunky shoes were everywhere in the ’90s, made famous by the Spice Girls. The original Buffalo London platforms now fetch up to $800 on resale sites, especially rare colorways and collaborations. Many buyers specifically look for unworn pairs with original boxes and tags. The demand keeps rising as modern celebrities continue wearing these iconic shoes at special events.

Tommy Hilfiger Windbreakers

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The bold, colorful Tommy Hilfiger windbreakers from the ’90s have become major collector pieces. Original jackets in good condition can sell for $300-500, with rare designs going for even more. The brand’s signature red, white, and blue color scheme makes these pieces instantly recognizable. Sports stars and musicians helped make these jackets popular, and now vintage fashion fans pay high prices to own a piece of that history.

JNCO Wide-Leg Jeans

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These massive, super-wide jeans defined ’90s street fashion and skater culture. Original JNCO jeans with special designs or rare patches now sell for $500-1000 per pair. The detailed embroidery and unique pocket designs make each pair special to collectors. Finding these jeans in perfect condition has become really difficult, which drives up their value even more.

Vintage Pokemon Trading Cards

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While not exactly clothing, these cards were major fashion accessories for kids in the ’90s. First-edition cards, especially holographic ones, can now sell for thousands of dollars. Some rare cards have even sold for over $100,000 at special auctions. The value keeps increasing as more people try to complete their collections.

Choker Necklaces

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The simple black elastic chokers have evolved from cheap accessories to designer statements. Luxury brands have created elaborate versions using precious metals and stones, driving up the market for vintage pieces. Original designer chokers from the ’90s now appear in auctions and high-end vintage stores. The nostalgic appeal combined with current trends has created a premium market for authentic pieces.

Furbies

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These electronic pets were must-have toys that also became fashion statements. Special edition Furbies from the ’90s, especially in unopened boxes, can sell for $900 or more today. The rarest versions, like the Angel Furby or specific color combinations, are particularly valuable. Collectors often focus on finding working examples with all original packaging and instructions.

Original Tamagotchis

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These digital pets started a worldwide craze and now command high prices. First-generation Tamagotchis in working condition sell for $200-400, with rare colors fetching even more. Japanese versions are especially sought after by serious collectors. Having the original packaging and working battery compartment greatly increases the value.

Starter Jackets

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Sports team Starter jackets from the ’90s have become valuable vintage pieces. Rare team editions or special designs can sell for $200-500 in good condition. The quality of these jackets helped many survive in wearable condition after all these years. Finding one with original tags still attached can double or triple the selling price.

Moon Boots

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These puffy winter boots were both fashionable and functional in the ’90s. Original Moon Boots in good condition now sell for $150-300, especially in metallic colors. The space-age design still looks modern today, which helps maintain its value. Many buyers seek these boots for both collecting and wearing.

Chain Wallets

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Metal chain wallets were essential accessories for the alternative crowd. Original branded versions from the ’90s can now sell for $100-200. The best examples feature heavy-duty chains and detailed leatherwork that has aged well. Certain brands like Hot Topic and Spencer’s versions are particularly valuable to collectors.

Beanie Babies

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These small plush toys became serious fashion accessories and investments. Rare Beanie Babies with tag errors or discontinued designs can sell for thousands of dollars. The Princess Diana Bear remains one of the most valuable examples ever made. Having original tags and documentation increases their worth significantly.

Bucket Hats

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These casual caps that dominated ’90s streetwear have become luxury accessories. Designer versions of these simple hats now retail for hundreds of dollars, while vintage pieces fetch similar prices. The demand for authentic ’90s patterns and materials has created a competitive market. Original designer pieces from this era often sell for many times their original price.

Vintage Band T-Shirts

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Original concert shirts from ’90s bands have become serious collectibles. Authentic shirts from groups like Nirvana or Pearl Jam can sell for $200-1000. The condition and rarity of the design greatly affect the final selling price. Tour-specific shirts are especially valuable to music memorabilia collectors.

Track Suits

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The matching sets that dominated ’90s casual wear now sell for premium prices. Vintage pieces from major sportswear brands, especially complete sets, command impressive amounts. The specific materials and designs from this era make these suits particularly valuable to collectors. Original unworn sets can cost several times their initial retail price.

Original Doc Martens

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Classic ’90s Doc Martens boots in specific colors are highly sought after. Its Made-in-England versions from this era can sell for $300-500. What’s interesting is that the quality of these older boots often surpasses modern versions. It also comes in rare colors or special editions that command even higher prices.

Sanrio Accessories

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Hello Kitty and other Sanrio character items from the ’90s fetch premium prices. Original accessories in good condition regularly sell for $50-200 each. Limited edition pieces or complete sets are especially valuable to collectors. The cute designs and nostalgic appeal keep demand high.

Vintage Swatch Watches

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Special edition Swatch watches from the ’90s have become valuable timepieces. Rare designs or limited releases can sell for $300-1000 today. The unique artistic designs make each watch different from modern versions. Having original packaging and documentation greatly increases their value.

Scrunchies

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These fabric hair ties have transformed from everyday accessories to luxury items. Designer versions of these simple hair accessories now retail for premium prices. Original pieces from popular ’90s brands have become valuable collectors’ items. The specific patterns and materials from this era make them particularly desirable.

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Diana Tablan

Diana Tablan is a freelance content writer who loves to explore fun topics, but she’s particularly keen on writing travel and food blogs. During her free time, she enjoys reading and painting. While on other days, she spends them on learning other skills like cooking.

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