Get the Look: The Return of '90s Style

Both Dolce & Gabbana and Ralph Lauren have boldly announced the return of plaid in their fall '08 runway shows. Dolce and Gabbana's cotton plaid button-up shirts, in shades of reds and blues, certainly are reminiscent of the '90s "grunge" look, while Ralph Lauren's bright red plaid wool jackets and mini skirts, cotton blouses and newly contrived hats offer a bit of nostalgia for the looks that graced us just shy of two decades ago. Young celebs including Lindsay Lohan and Mary-Kate Olsen have also jumped on the '90s throwback band-wagon, rocking their best vintage plaids and mastering the "just rolled out of bed" look, with one side of their flannel tucked in and the other side dangling out. Completing their grungy aesthetic is (perfectly) tousled bed-head and some rock star retro shades.

Start off getting the look with a version of the Dolce & Gabbana and Ralph Lauren's classic plaid shirts for a lot less with this H81 Midwest Plaid Shirt ($22.90, Forever 21). Urban Outfitters offers the short-sleeved, mandarin collared version with this BDG Mandarin Plaid Button Up ($25) and for a dose of femininity meets plaid, try this Three-Quarter-Sleeved Ruffle-Front Top in a modern, energetic color palette ($44, The Gap).

Stars such as Katie Holmes, Amanda Peet, and Reese Witherspoon have been spotted sporting updated, relaxed, loose fit jeans. Reese prefers the Current Elliott "Boyfriend" Jean ($229, on preorder now at Singer22.com) in the Super Love Destroyed Wash for an ultra relaxed fit.

If you love the Current Elliott Jeans, but not the price don't fret; we found the Boy Jean in Resin Rinsed Wash ($78, J.Crew) and we also love these Boyfriend Cut Jeans ($68, Levi's) with a straight silhouette that sits comfortably on your hips and is roomy in the thigh area.

Adding an even timelier throwback, aesthetic to the look, tightly rolling the bottom of the jeans into peg legs is the latest early '90s fad, but is only for those fashionistas who are truly willing to take a style risk! For those of us who were born after 1988, or need a refresher lesson on how to become a gnarly roller, make rolling a pinch by checking out this link.

Pair your rolled and relaxed jeans with a loose and comfy cardigan -- think Kurt Cobain to channel the perfect '90s "grunge" look. Richard Chai for Target provides several Long Cardigan Sweaters, in washed indigo or black ($39.99, Target). American Apparel also has quite an abundant selection, boasting the Unisex Solid Rib Oversized Pocket Cardigan ($38) in a myriad of fall appropriate colors and the lighter weight Unisex Fine Jersey Double-Breasted Cardigan ($39.50). We're also loving this Double-Pocket Cardigan ($54, The Gap), and the Merino Cardigan for a mere $7.99 (La Redoute). Layer the look with a thin tee, such as this Burnout Tee ($35, AlternativeApparel.com) or one of these Racer Back Tanks ($5, Old Navy). Give your '90s outfit a modern, feminine update with a small, silky neck scarf, like this Printed Silk Scarf ($6.80, Forever 21).

If your fashion soul desires to travel back to the early '90s or if you plan on staying right here in 2008, don't forget to pack some plaid, a comfy cardigan, and boyfriend jeans -- because grunge '08 is oh-so chic.

-- Devin VanderMaas

Note: there may be a way to make the items mentioned above an even better bang for your buck -- remember to search stylenotes for special promotions and coupon codes that may be applied to your order.