The slip dress stands as the ultimate symbol of the 1990s, with photographs of legendary versions worn by Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Winona Ryder, Sarah Jessica Parker, and others consistently resurfacing on the internet. Today it remains an effortlessly stylish wardrobe staple for modern women—just look at Emily Ratajkowski’s latest appearance in New York City.
The model and author, who recently dyed her hair a striking shade of auburn, was seen wearing a pistachio-green slip dress that featured camisole straps, a nipped-in waist and a mid-length skirt. She completed her outfit with black cateye shades; cream strappy Bayard sandals from her own brand, Inamorata; a silver chainmail shoulder bag by Paco Rabanne; and gold Jennifer Fisher hoop earrings.
But really, it’s that red and green color combo—which can so easily skew “office holiday party”—that had us impressed. The two shades, auburn and pistachio, are just earthy enough to prevent the palette from feeling costumey.
While the slip dress is inspired by the flapper girls of the 1920s and Vionnet’s bias-cut designs in the ’30s, it was the grunge and minimalist designs of the ’90s that have had the most lasting impact on popular culture. Their enduring influence is still evident today on the runways of brands such as Rodarte, Nensi Dojaka, 16Arlington and JW Anderson.
Of course, ’90s celebrities were as instrumental in popularizing the slip as fashion houses. Madonna showcased lingerie-inspired versions adorned with delicate lace trim, while Courtney Love embraced a slightly disheveled, thrifted take. Elsewhere, Gwyneth Paltrow and the late Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy epitomized a more glamorous and refined style, often pairing it with sandals, similar to Emily Ratajkowski’s recent ensemble.
This article first appeared on British
