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As we all know, trends come and go, and then come back again. We see the cycle happen continuously—we’re looking at you, Y2K). But in this case, we’re talking about the grunge aesthetic. The trend started in Seattle, back in the mid ’80s and thrived well into the early ’90s. Thanks to bands like Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains, we now know grunge to be what it is today.
These days, we’re seeing celebs like Jenna Ortega (as Wednesday and stunting on the red carpet), Olivia Rodrigo, and Billie Eilish embracing this trend. And if you want to pull it off yourself, you’ll want band tees, flannels, plaid, and all things baggy and oversized. For accessories, go for styles like chunky combat boots and studded chokers. Basically, this trend is very cool, and very easy to achieve. Keep scrolling for 15 outfits that will help you get the grunge aesthetic in no time.
Our top picks for the best grunge aesthetic looks in 2024:
grunge look
this easy ensemble
Dolls Kill Three Wolf Moon Hoodie
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this dark moment
Nasty Gal Faux Leather Chunky Platform Boot
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this safety pin vibe
Sami Miro Vintage Victorian Mesh Cardigan With Safety Pin
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this modern ‘Wednesday’ dress
Coach Lingerie Dress
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this corset-mini combo
Eugene Taylor Brand Mini Hugger Skirt
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this distressed goodness
Jaded London Esra Laddered Knit Off-the-Shoulder Top
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this powerful duo
Hot Topic Social Collision Black & Red Plaid Spike Dress
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Yup, the grunge aesthetic is giving “dressed to kill” a whole new meaning with these looks! If ya want more inspo, feel free to shop all the cargo pants, leather blazers, leather pants, and leggings.
this easy ensemble
Dolls Kill Three Wolf Moon Hoodie
this easy ensemble
Dolls Kill Three Wolf Moon Hoodie
You most likely already own everything it takes to pull off this one. Grab your oversized hoodie and jeans for an easy and effortless grunge look. Bonus points if they’re acid-washed!
this dark moment
Nasty Gal Faux Leather Chunky Platform Boot
this dark moment
Nasty Gal Faux Leather Chunky Platform Boot
A lace-up platform boot is one of the key pieces when it comes to grunge. Wear these knee-highs with a graphic tee and you’re ready to go.
this bold feel
Ksubi Void Mesh Ls Top Consumed
If you’re ready to go full grunge, it’s time to pull out the fishnets. Layer with distressed denim shorts and a knee-high boot to complete the situation.
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this safety pin vibe
Sami Miro Vintage Victorian Mesh Cardigan With Safety Pin
this safety pin vibe
Sami Miro Vintage Victorian Mesh Cardigan With Safety Pin
Now 40% Off
The newest and coolest way to button your shirt is with an oversized safety pin. The silver hardware and faded cargo pant will complete this outfit perfectly.
this shredded look
R13 Shredded Seam Shirt
Channel those iconic ’90s band singers with flannel. Pair this one from R13 with a cropped jean and chunky boot.
this modern ‘Wednesday’ dress
Coach Lingerie Dress
this modern ‘Wednesday’ dress
Coach Lingerie Dress
If dresses are more your thing, this lace-trimmed one from Coach will get the point across.
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this corset-mini combo
Eugene Taylor Brand Mini Hugger Skirt
this corset-mini combo
Eugene Taylor Brand Mini Hugger Skirt
A corset plus miniskirt combo is always a good idea. This one is studded and has a D ring chain, giving your outfit that extra edge.
this distressed goodness
Jaded London Esra Laddered Knit Off-the-Shoulder Top
this distressed goodness
Jaded London Esra Laddered Knit Off-the-Shoulder Top
Now 20% Off
This ultra-distressed, 0ff-the-shoulder sweater is giving all the grunge vibes. Any dark wash denim will look so good with this top.
If you haven’t joined the cargo or loose denim bandwagon yet, you’ll want to. Go for a tonal grunge look with a ribbed tube top and cargo pants. You can add a pop of color with bright bag...or not (heh).
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this powerful duo
Hot Topic Social Collision Black & Red Plaid Spike Dress
this powerful duo
Hot Topic Social Collision Black & Red Plaid Spike Dress
Plaid and studs are a power duo when it comes to this trend. Pair this minidress with a loafer or classic boot for a look that you can wear all summer long.
this flannel moment
PacSun John Galt Long Sleeve Flannel Shirt
this flannel moment
PacSun John Galt Long Sleeve Flannel Shirt
For another easy summer-friendly look, pair a flannel with jean shorts and sneakers.
this elevated look
Marc Jacobs Heaven Star Girl Bow Tank
this elevated look
Marc Jacobs Heaven Star Girl Bow Tank
A pair of platform boots are a must, especially when worn with a graphic tank and grommet-embellished miniskirt.
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Between the lace-up and grommet details, this Miaou dress will def be the center of attention. Pair it with a choker and knee-high combat boot for a full-on grunge moment.
this hoodie and checkered belt combo
Vans X Sandy Liang Hoodie
Add a checkered belt to this graphic hoodie and jean shorts outfit and you’re all set!
this fun 'fit
Chopova Lowena Graphic-Print T-shirt
Make your grunge outfit fun with a graphic top and chill joggers. Leather accessories will help step up your game.
Cassie Anderson
Fashion Director
Cassie Anderson is the fashion director for Cosmopolitan, where she leads celebrity styling and fashion continuity for the print magazine and the brand’s digital platforms. Cassie joined Cosmopolitan after 10 years of editing and styling at Harper’s BAZAAR. Cassie has also styled for other Hearst titles, including Elle, Town & Country, and Esquire. Follow her fabulous feed - featuring the A-list talent she’s styled - on Instagram and TikTok.
