90s Grunge Costume
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Grunge came out of the Seattle music scene in the early 1990s and took over every high school hallway in America. It’s one of the most comfortable costumes there is, and it’s mostly stuff people already own, or used to.
What Makes It Work
Flannel is the core. Wear it open over a faded band tee, or tie it around your waist. Thrifted and worn-in is better than crisp and new.
Add ripped jeans, baggy or straight, and beat-up combat boots or high-top sneakers. A knit beanie and a black choker are classic accessories.
The attitude finishes it. Messy hair, a little dark eyeliner, and a bored expression. For the girls’ version, a slip dress or a floral dress under the flannel with boots is pure 90s. Carry a guitar or a pair of old headphones.
What People Get Wrong
Looking too polished. Grunge was never ironed. Rumple the flannel and scuff the boots. The other mistake is mixing in 80s neon, which is the opposite decade’s look.
Buy It or Build It?
Grunge costumes are almost never worth buying as a kit. Thrift a flannel and a band tee for under $15, and use the jeans and boots you own.
Where to Buy
| Retailer | What they carry | |
|---|---|---|
| Amazon | Costume kits, wigs and accessories | Shop on Amazon |
FAQ
How do I make a 90s grunge costume?
Open flannel over a band tee, ripped jeans, combat boots, a beanie and messy hair.
What's a girl 90s grunge outfit?
A slip or floral dress under an oversized flannel, combat boots, a choker and dark lipstick.
Is grunge a good couples costume?
Yes. Two matching flannels and ripped jeans look like a 90s band.
What decade is grunge from?
The early 1990s, starting in Seattle.
Next up: Lumberjack Costume
See Also
Free: The Last-Minute Costume Cheat Sheet
Ten costumes you can make tonight, mostly from your own closet. One page, printable, plus a short email before each costume season. No spam.