The ’90s were an iconic era that still inspires designers and stylists worldwide. With their bright colours, bold mixes, jeans, sneakers, and oversized fits, they take us back to a time when music and street style ruled. In this article, we’ll dive into what Calgarians wore back then and how those unforgettable times continue to influence fashion today. Find out more at calgarynka.
Historical Context: What Calgary Was Like in the ’90s
In the ’90s, Calgary was a city of contrasts. While the downtown core was rapidly developing with new business centres and malls, it was still a less globalized city. Calgary’s strong cowboy traditions also played a significant role in shaping the fashion of the time.
What Calgarians Wore in the ’90s
In the ’90s, fashion in Calgary, much like other western Canadian cities, was incredibly diverse. Residents blended urban practicality with the global trends of the era.
Casual style often featured high-waisted “mom” jeans, baggy shirts, or printed t-shirts. Everyone loved chunky boots or popular brand-name sneakers from companies like Nike, Adidas, and Puma.
Looking at photos from that time, you can spot young people clearly inspired by the grunge music scene, experimenting with their style. The city’s alternative music scene was emerging, with small clubs popping up where fans of Nirvana and other bands would gather.
Other subcultures were also on the rise. Skaters, for example, expressed a protest against the mainstream. More skateparks were built in the city, providing a place for teens to hang out, and skater fashion became widespread.
At the same time, cowboy aesthetics remained a core part of Calgary’s identity. Young people would often mix cowboy boots with contemporary pieces. The city’s largest “cowboy” presence, of course, was during the annual Calgary Stampede rodeo.
Adult Calgarians favoured a minimalist and business-casual style: understated shirts, straight-leg pants, and classic trench coats. Black, grey, and white were the dominant colours.
The Era’s Enduring Influence
The ’90s fashion continues to influence modern Calgarian style. Today, we’re seeing young people embracing wide-leg jeans, crop tops, and oversized sweaters. Jimmy Boy, a stylist at the Calgary boutique “Secret Shop YYC,” says that streetwear is a trend that’s really gaining popularity in Calgary.
Calgary has a subarctic climate, so it’s a good thing that big jackets are making a comeback. Jimmy Boy notes that ’90s fashion allows you to stay warm and fashionable in winter. You can go for a large puffer coat or a leather jacket worn over other layers.
Sneakers from well-known brands also remain popular. Today, they’re worn not just for sports but as part of everyday life. And just like in the ’90s, some people are choosing chunky, “rugged” boot styles like Dr. Martens.
It’s clear that some local brands are inspired by ’90s aesthetics. For instance, the “Dreamboat Lucy” brand, created by two sisters, stands out with its bright colours and a unique blend of retro and rock-and-roll.
The influence of ’90s fashion is also seen in the demand for vintage and retro-style pieces, as well as the popularity of local second-hand and thrift stores. Calgarians are making these choices not only for aesthetic reasons but also out of a desire to be more environmentally conscious.
In summary, ’90s fashion in Calgary was vibrant and multifaceted. It was a harmonious blend of the city’s cowboy traditions, global trends, subcultural movements, and urban practicality. This era left a deep mark on local style and continues to inspire today’s young designers and fashion lovers in Calgary.