Grunge origins
Grunge fashion emerged from the Pacific Northwest, particularly Seattle, in the late 1980s. The look was heavily influenced by the grunge music scene, with bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Soundgarden defining the aesthetic both on and off the stage. Musicians wore second-hand clothes from thrift stores, and their rugged, well-worn items matched the gritty music scene.
As grunge music gained mainstream popularity, so did the fashion associated with it. Originally an anti-fashion movement, grunge quickly caught the attention of designers. In the ’90s, Marc Jacobs helped bring it to high fashion with his Perry Ellis spring 1993 collection—though it famously cost him his job.
Decades later, grunge fashion continues to evolve, blending vintage elements with modern pieces.
13 iconic grunge style elements
Grunge fashion is all about layering, comfort, and a slightly disheveled look. Below, we’ve gathered some of the must-have pieces that define the style.
1. Flannel shirts
Flannel shirts are a staple of grunge fashion. Nirvana and Pearl Jam popularized them while performing and off-duty, often wearing them over band tees or tying them around their waists. They can be worn buttoned up, unbuttoned, or oversized for a relaxed feel. The more worn-in, the better.
Flannel remains popular in modern streetwear. Celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid have been spotted styling oversized flannels over crop tops and flannels with denim for a casual, vintage-inspired look.
Source: Glamour
2. Band tees
Nothing screams grunge like an old band tee. Musicians and fans alike embraced faded, vintage shirts to showcase their favorite rock and punk influences. Whether it’s a ’90s band or a modern alternative, a distressed tee goes perfectly with ripped jeans.
Vintage band tees have now become a staple in mainstream fashion, often styled with high-waisted jeans or leather pants. Stars like Gigi Hadid and Travis Barker frequently sport band tees as part of their everyday outfits. Many also opt for distressed shirts with cut-out designs or crop fits for a more contemporary feel.
Source: Vogue
Check out 26 Novel Band Merch Ideas + Examples
3. Chunky knit sweaters
Nirvana’s lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain frequently wore oversized, slouchy knit sweaters, making them a key part of grunge fashion. Often thrifted or hand-me-downs, chunky sweaters are perfect for layering over slip dresses or styling with ripped jeans.
Chunky knit sweaters are now seen on runways and social media, with musicians and influencers giving them a modern twist by pairing them with pleated skirts or leather boots. Neutral and earthy tones dominate, making them easy to mix with edgy, grunge-inspired accessories like layered chains and ripped stockings.
Source: Vogue
4. Doc Marten boots
Known for their durability, comfort, and tough aesthetic, Doc Martens became the go-to footwear for the grunge movement in the ’90s. The British punk scene first embraced these trendsetting combat boots, but grunge icons like Courtney Love and Eddie Vedder made them a staple. Today, Doc Martens and similar boots remain essential for achieving the grunge look.
Doc Martens continue to dominate street fashion, sometimes worn with sleek slip dresses or styled with baggy items for a more androgynous edge. Celebrities like Kristen Stewart and Billie Eilish frequently rock them.
Source: Pinterest
5. Slogan tees
Edgy, ironic, and effortlessly cool—slogan tees are a grunge essential. Born out of the punk and alternative music scenes, these shirts carried rebellious messages, political statements, and dry humor, all in bold typography.
Today, slogan tees remain a statement piece, often styled with vintage jeans or layered under oversized blazers. Celebrities like Zendaya and Harry Styles have embraced the look, proving that a well-chosen phrase can still turn heads.
For those starting a clothing brand, slogan tees are a great way to tap into self-expression and countercultural fashion trends.
Source: Harper’s Bazaar
Read more: How to Start a Clothing Brand in 2025
6. Corduroy jackets and trousers
Corduroy brings texture to grunge fashion, balancing ruggedness with a vintage touch. In the ’90s, musicians and skaters favored corduroy work jackets, layering them over hoodies or flannels.
Corduroy has made a comeback in modern streetwear with structured jackets and fits. Corduroy trousers in bold colors like burgundy or mustard are making waves, styled with oversized outerwear. Timothée Chalamet, often seen in contemporary takes on this classic fabric, proves that corduroy is as versatile as it is timeless.
Source: Vogue
7. Wide-leg and ripped jeans
Denim is at the heart of grunge style—ripped, oversized, and worn-in. In the ’90s, skaters and musicians rejected polished, fitted looks, opting instead for slouchy, distressed jeans that felt lived-in.
The trend has come full circle, with loose, torn denim making its way back into fashion. Whether styled with crop tops, oversized jackets, or chunky boots, this look continues to be in style.
