The 90s are back in a big way for Halloween 2025, with costumes inspired by iconic movies, TV shows, music, and pop culture moments that defined the decade. From grunge flannels to vibrant cartoon characters, these nostalgic outfits are perfect for parties, trick-or-treating, or themed events, capturing the bold, eclectic spirit of the era. Drawing from trends on platforms like Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire, and Pinterest, we’ve curated 10 easy 90s Halloween costume ideas that are budget-friendly ($15-$50), beginner-friendly, and ideal for solo or couples’ looks. Inspired by sources like Good Housekeeping and Reddit’s r/Nostalgia, these costumes use thrift store finds, Amazon accessories, and DIY touches to recreate the 90s vibe. Let’s dive into these retro Halloween costume ideas to make your 2025 spooky season totally tubular on September 24, 2025!
1. Cher from Clueless
Inspired by Cosmopolitan, Cher Horowitz’s iconic yellow plaid outfit is a 90s classic.
How to Create: Wear a yellow plaid blazer and skirt set, white knee-high socks, and a blonde wig. Add a flip phone prop.
Why It’s Nostalgic: The Clueless look screams 90s prep with a sassy edge.
Cost: $20-$40. Where to Shop: Thrift stores, Amazon for plaid sets.
2. TLC Hip-Hop Style
From Marie Claire, channel TLC’s bold 90s hip-hop aesthetic.
How to Create: Pair baggy cargo pants, a crop top, and a bandana with chunky gold jewelry and sneakers.
Why It’s Nostalgic: TLC’s vibrant, confident style defined 90s R&B fashion.
Cost: $15-$35. Where to Shop: Target, Etsy for accessories.
3. Kurt Cobain Grunge Look
Inspired by Pinterest, a Nirvana-inspired grunge outfit captures 90s angst.
How to Create: Wear a flannel shirt, ripped jeans, a beanie, and round sunglasses. Add a fake guitar prop.
Why It’s Nostalgic: The grunge vibe embodies 90s Seattle rock culture.
Cost: $15-$30. Where to Shop: Thrift stores, Amazon for sunglasses.
4. Daria and Jane from Daria
From Good Housekeeping, this duo is perfect for a sarcastic 90s vibe.
How to Create: For Daria, wear a green jacket, black skirt, and round glasses. For Jane, rock a red crop top, black shorts, and combat boots.
Why It’s Nostalgic: The Daria aesthetic nails 90s teen cynicism.
Cost: $20-$40 per person. Where to Shop: H&M, thrift stores.
5. The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
Inspired by Reddit’s r/Nostalgia, Will Smith’s colorful 90s style is a standout.
How to Create: Wear a bright graphic tee, baggy jeans, a backward cap, and high-top sneakers. Add a gold chain.
Why It’s Nostalgic: The vibrant look captures 90s hip-hop and TV flair.
Cost: $15-$35. Where to Shop: Amazon, Target.
6. Mia Wallace from Pulp Fiction
From Cosmopolitan, Uma Thurman’s iconic Pulp Fiction character is a bold choice.
How to Create: Wear a white button-up shirt, black capri pants, and a black bob wig. Add fake blood for the overdose scene.
Why It’s Nostalgic: Mia’s sleek style is quintessentially 90s Tarantino.
Cost: $20-$40. Where to Shop: Thrift stores, Amazon for wigs.
7. Powerpuff Girls Group Costume
Inspired by Good Housekeeping, Blossom, Bubbles, and Buttercup are perfect for friends.
How to Create: Wear colored dresses (pink, blue, green), black belts, and matching bows or wigs. Add knee-high socks.
Why It’s Nostalgic: The Powerpuff Girls were a 90s cartoon staple.
Cost: $15-$30 per person. Where to Shop: Party City, Etsy.
8. Spice Girls Group Costume
From Pinterest, channel the iconic girl group’s bold looks.
How to Create: Pick a Spice Girl—Sporty (tracksuit), Scary (leopard print), Baby (pigtails and pink dress), etc.—and add platform shoes.
Why It’s Nostalgic: The Spice Girls defined 90s pop culture and girl power.
Cost: $20-$40 per person. Where to Shop: ASOS, Amazon.
9. Wayne and Garth from Wayne’s World
Inspired by Marie Claire, this duo is perfect for couples or friends.
How to Create: For Wayne, wear a black cap, band tee, and ripped jeans. For Garth, add a plaid shirt, glasses, and blonde wig.
Why It’s Nostalgic: The Wayne’s World slacker vibe is pure 90s comedy.
Cost: $15-$35 per person. Where to Shop: Thrift stores, Amazon.
10. Lisa Turtle from Saved by the Bell
From Cosmopolitan, Lisa’s colorful 90s fashion is vibrant and fun.
How to Create: Wear a bright floral dress, oversized earrings, and a curly wig. Add chunky bracelets and sneakers.
Why It’s Nostalgic: Lisa’s bold style captures 90s teen TV energy.
Cost: $20-$35. Where to Shop: H&M, Etsy for accessories.
Conclusion: Rock Your 90s Halloween Look
These 10 nostalgic 90s Halloween costume ideas for 2025, from Cher’s plaid to Wayne and Garth’s slacker style, bring retro fun to your spooky season. Affordable and easy, they’re perfect for any Halloween event. Ready to go back in time? Shop at thrift stores, Amazon, or Target, browse Pinterest for inspiration, or start assembling now. Don’t wait—create your 90s costume today and make your 2025 Halloween totally awesome!
