Sorry, Jeans—It Girls are Wearing this Chic ‘90s Spring Outfit Formula Instead
Jeans will always have a place in my daily wardrobe rotation, but as spring approaches and the temperatures begin their slow climb, I'm definitely craving something lighter. With a penchant for less-is-more silhouettes and a minimalist approach to getting dressed, I often gravitate towards sleek '90s silhouettes—and this week, I was reminded of one particularly cool outfit formula that feels perfectly primed for spring 2026.
Posing for a photo, Bella Hadid swapped long-line jeans for a chic knee-length skirt, anchoring the look with a pair of knee-high boots. Skimming the hem of the skirt, the pairing creates a streamlined, cohesive silhouette with a distinct ’90s energy.
Keeping things simple, Bella styled the look with a white tank and a black knitted cardigan, creating exactly the kind of fuss-free and elevated outfit formula that fashion people will undoubtedly return to all spring long.
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With a soft spot for nostalgic styling—Bella is no stranger to Y2K and ’90s-inspired looks—this restrained take feels especially wearable. While her checked skirt leans fully into the era, the formula itself is incredibly versatile and would work just as well with a sleek monochrome design.
Gwyneth Paltrow wears a knee-length skirt with knee-high boots in 1999.
No, I’m not suggesting you abandon your jeans, but if you’re ready to embrace a lighter, more refined silhouette this season, this outfit formula is the perfect place to start. Read on to discover the knee-length skirts and knee-high boots I’m recommending below.
Shop Knee-Lengths Skirts + Knee-High Boots:
This also comes in black and a houndstooth design.
Be quick! These won't stay in stock for long.
Honestly, this looks so much more expensive than it actually is.
Zara
Leather Knee-High Boots
I'll always have a soft spot for a cowboy-inspired boot, and this dark brown pair has jumped to the top of my wish list.
& Other Stories
Knee-Length Slip Skirt
Add a pop of colour to your winter rotation.
& Other Stories
Leather Knee Boots
Style these with a knee-length skirt or pair them under loose-leg jeans.
Reformation
Layla Knee Length Skirt
The checked design gives this such a chic '90s finish.
Staud
Sebastian Leather Knee Boots
These also come in half sizes, so you can find your perfect fit.
Calvin Klein
Luna Wool Skirt
Reformation
Claudette Knee Boot
The slim heel design gives these such an elevated finish.
Loulou de Saison
Engel Paneled Suede Midi Skirt
The poppy red colour trend isn't showing any signs of slowing down.
Toteme
Downtown Leather Knee Boots
These also come in dark brown.
