Fashion

'Friends' Season 1 Trends That Made A Comeback

by Alexa Tucker

Oh, the '90s: It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. By best of times, we mean the TV. By worst of times, we mean the clothes. And no show better displayed this than Friends.

It's been 20 years this month since Chandler, Joey, Monica, Phoebe, Rachel and Ross won our hearts (please note that I put their names in alphabetical order because I just couldn't pick a favorite to put first). Like so many other fans, I just can't let go. I'd venture that I've seen every episode at least five times. I, too, am still in pursuit of the perfect "Rachel" cut (Season 8's version was my fave). I quote lines from the show in my head on a daily basis. Friends is my comfort zone.

But there's one thing that's been surprising me lately during my evening rerun routine (yes, it's on every night) – a few former fashion "don'ts" have actually come back. Some of the pieces we'd scoff at just a few years ago are now modernized closet staples for ladies of every style, from hipster to classic. And you know what? I'm down with that. While the fashion world cringes as it remembers the early '90s, I think it's time to change the general consensus. Maybe it was the best of times in TV and fashion. Here are some of the clothes from Season 1 we definitely see out and about.

The Chambray Shirt

If you don't own one of these, you are missing out, girlfriend. There's nothing comfier than a worn out chambray shirt. Whether you Canadian Tuxedo it by tucking it into your jeans or just toss it on over your yoga leggings for class, it's the easiest go-to top ever. They're a little more fitted and tend to have a more distressed wash than the one in Phoebe's look here, but I'd be happy to have this one in my closet, too.

The Bardot Neckline

Confession: I am on the hunt for a top with this style neckline, and there are so many options out there nowadays. Sadly, I haven't found exactly what I want yet (black, non-crop top, long sleeves, not too tight), but I won't give up hope just yet. If you see one, let me know. Because I am desperate to get in on this trend (without settling for anything less than Rachel Green perfection).

Overalls

OVERALLS ARE BACK. While I'm still searching for a pair that fits perfectly (one-piece outfits are unfortunately not made for people with long torsos and long legs), overalls with street-style worthy kicks, a Calvin Klein sports bra and a big pair of sunnies was the model-off-duty look of the summer.

The Plaid Skirt

Plaid skirts are back at it for fall. (The one I have would look awesome with my dream Bardot neckline top). Just do yourself a favor – skip the knee high socks and turtleneck.

The Denim Vest

Denim vests are one of my new must-haves for almost every season (I would honestly consider moving to Southern California so I could wear them in the winter, too). I wear my treasured Gap vest over dresses, long sleeve blouses, crop tops, tee shirts, you name it. While the zipped denim vest has fallen out of fashion, replace Rachel's version with buttons and you've got yourself a 2014 staple. (BTW, in this quote, the comedian means foreplay. Agreed, Rach. You can't just skip to the main event.)

Chunky Knit Sweaters

Sure, this is a guy's trend from the '90s, but I love me a chunky knit. It's almost sweater weather, guys!

And, Of Course, The Crop Top

'That' would be arguably the single biggest trend of the past couple of years, Rachel. In a couple of decades, 20-somethings might be referring to the 2010s as the era of crop tops. Let's hope they still get to experience the joy of the '90s versions on Friends.

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