Grunge & ’90s Fashion: Best Brands + How to Style
Author: Stylist and brand team at TellarDate: 2025
1. What Is Grunge Style?
Grunge emerged in late-’80s/early-’90s Seattle, rooted in music, attitude, and anti-fashion. Picture ripped denim, oversized plaid shirts, band tees, and chunky boots—a casual but deliberate rebellion in style.
2. Key Brands for the Look
High Street
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Urban Outfitters – band tees, oversized flannels, distressed denim
🖤 Shop here: urbanoutfitters.com
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Zara – vintage-inspired designs with a polished take on grunge staples
🖤 Shop here: zara.com
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Gap – core wardrobe basics like boxy tees, denim jackets, and oversized sweatshirts
🖤 Shop here: gap.co.uk
Designer / Heritage
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Vivienne Westwood – punk-heritage prints, tartan, and rebellious tailoring
🖤 Shop here: viviennewestwood.com
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Burberry – iconic trench coats and heritage prints, refreshed with contemporary appeal
🖤 Shop here: burberry.com
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Palace Skateboards – bold streetwear tees and skater-inspired layering
🖤 Shop here: palaceskateboards.com
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Dr. Martens – thick-soled boots and sandals that are grunge staples
🖤 Shop here: drmartens.com
3. Nail the Fit with Tellar
In grunge dressing, "sloppy" is intentional—but fit must still feel right. That’s where Tellar steps in:
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🎯 Use your free sizing profile to check fit across 1,500+ brands—including denim, boots, tees, and jackets.
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🔍 Real recommendations like “Size down one for oversized band tees—fits** relaxed but not too baggy**.”
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✅ Honest, unbiased sizing advice—even on brands with affiliate links.
💥 Try it here: Create your Tellar profile
4. How to Style the Look
Element |
Styling Tips |
---|---|
Layering |
Ripped jeans + vintage band tee + plaid flannel tied around waist |
Outerwear |
Leather or denim jacket, or Burberry trench for sharp contrast |
Footwear |
Chunky Dr. Martens or Palace Skate sneakers |
Accessories |
Beanie, chain wallet, chokers, round sunglasses |
Designer edge |
Add a Vivienne Westwood tartan scarf or pin for punk flair |
Subtle-grunge option |
Swap plaid for a cropped jacket and slim-cut jeans |
Thrifting tip |
Pair high-street staples with thrift-find accessories to nail that lived-in vibe |
5. High Street vs Designer Picks
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Budget-friendly: Urban Outfitters band tee (£25), Zara oversized check shirt (£35), Gap boxy tee (~£20)
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Mid-range: Palace Skateboards statement tee (£60), Dr. Martens boots (£150)
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**Designer:</strong> Vivienne Westwood tartan accessories (£250), Burberry trench (£1,800)
6. Why Tellar Is Your Style Secret
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One profile, endless brands – from Urban Outfitters to Westwood
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Fit-first insights – accurate sizing powered by real measurement data
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Free & honest – no bias, even with affiliate content
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Less returns, more confidence – wear your look with swagger
Check out Tellar’s grunge-friendly sizing tips → View style guide
7. Final Word
Grunge is more than clothes—it’s attitude. With the right mix of oversized layers, rugged fabrics, and chunky boots (plus a designer accent for edge), you can channel ’90s cool with intention.
And with Tellar, you’ll wear it right—every time, every fit.
🔗 Start your free Tellar profile today → Tellar.co.uk
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