30 Grunge Outfits to Inspire Your Own Aesthetic and Style

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Resurrected by the emergence of 80s and 90s fashion styles on social media, the grunge aesthetic is back in 2023.

At peak popularity in the 1990s, the grunge aesthetic was the heart of the counterculture movement against mainstream fashion.

In those days, grunge fashion style comprised baggy jeans, thrifty shirts, chunky boots, plaid skirts, and flannels in dark colors and with chain accessories.

Over time and under the influence of several subcultures, grunge style embraced aesthetics from punk, emo, and, more recently, fairy vibes.

From dark grunge to fairy grunge, these are the most popular grunge aesthetic outfits you can wear right now.




1. Classic 90s Grunge

Oversized Flannel Shirts Over Band Tees, Ripped Jeans, and Combat Boots or Converse Shoes

Classic 90s Grunge Aesthetic
Classic 90s Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

The classic grunge style remains the ultimate look in the overall stylistic genre, be it in a soft or dark grunge aesthetic.

Worn by musicians such as Kurt Cobain and Dave Grohl, the classic grunge outfit of the 90s fashion opened the door to future messy chic styles.

When styling classic 90s grunge outfits, opt for oversized dark shirts, grunge-style plaid skirts, ripped jeans, accessories, and army boots.

Moreover, considering that grunge is a word that translates as ‘dirty,’ the more used and faded the clothes, the better.

Heart Rhinestone Rib Crop Tank Top Vintage Wash Distressed Star Patch Boyfriend Jeans

 

2. Dark Grunge

Dark Flannel Shirts Over Tight Black Crop Top, Dark Pants, Leather Platform Shoes, Double Grommet Belt, and Chain Chokers

Dark Grunge Aesthetic
Dark Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

With sweet influences of nothing aesthetic, the dark grunge aesthetic is far more sensual and feminine than the new variations of purple and pink grunge aesthetics.

Part of dark aesthetics such as Dark Academia, both dark and black grunge aesthetics look fantastic with black lace detail tops, velvet touches, and extra bows.

While you can choose from several variations and twists of the dark grunge aesthetic, the most popular style is all-black, worn-out clothes.

Denim Pleated Cargo Mini Skirt Buckle Strap Halter Crop Cami Top

3. Soft Grunge

Pastel Check Mini Skirts, Crop Tops, Oversized Denim Jacket, and Mary Jane Style Shoes

Soft Grunge Aesthetic Outfits
Soft Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

Worn by Millenials and Gen Z alike, soft girl grunge is one of the most popular grunge aesthetics right now.

The soft grunge aesthetic has taken over OOTDs on TikTok and Instagram.

Most popular soft grunge aesthetics are built from women’s casual clothing in pastel colors and feminine pieces in traditional details.

Sullen Lace Up Tank Lounge With Me Set




4. Fairy Grunge

Distressed Long Skirts or Pants, Corset Tops, and Gloves (With Fairy Jewelry, Wings, and Elf Ears)

Fairy Grunge Aesthetic
Fairy Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

What I love about the fairy grunge aesthetic is the romance and fantasy twist added to the classic style.

Similar to fairy-core or goblin-core, fairy grunge aesthetic centers around the beauty of the wild, with a blend of comfortable and earthen twists to what you wear.

The overall aesthetic is dark at the core, and the unique corseting and antique-style jewelry highlight the fairy look.

LE SKIRT RMX PECOA ARM WARMERS

5. Anime Grunge

Anime Tees, Flannel Shirts, Clack Choker (With Round Glasses and Heavy Makeup)

Grunge Anime Aesthetic
Grunge Anime Aesthetic Outfits

Brought to light by the emergence of the 90s anime genre, the anime grunge aesthetic is a more recent and unique variation of the classic grunge cut.

The style is an excellent way to showcase your favorite anime without saying a word.

Many anime lovers wearing grunge aesthetics have quotes from favorite shows hidden in jewelry and grunge accessories.

Chain Collar Grunge Anime Crop Top Anime Girls Printed Animecore Pants

6. Cute Grunge

Red, Yellow, or Pastel Plaid Skirts, Sheer Cropped Sweaters, Stockings, and Leather Boots (With Colorful Laces)

Cute Grunge Aesthetic
Cute Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

With an overall preppier take, cute grunge aesthetic clothes combine the classics of plaid with the WASP-y look of crew necks and straight-leg pants with Patterns and colors of Kawaii outfits.

While Kurt Cobain might be rolling over in his grave at the idea of calling this aesthetic grunge, the cute grunge clothes remind us of the generation raised on Gossip Girl and Pretty Little Liars.

Pastel Color Rainbow Gradient Cute Poker Sweater Wide Denim Shorts Soft Girl Aesthetic




7. Pink Grunge

Pink Plaid Pants or Pink Leather Skirt, Black Tops, and Leather Combat Boots

Grunge Pink Aesthetic
Grunge Pink Aesthetic Outfits

Pink and black are the best color combinations for sexy grunge aesthetics and styles.

While grunge outfits often veer toward dark neutrals, the pink grunge aesthetic brings freshness with bright pops of pink.

The pink grunge aesthetic stands out thanks to the unexpected softness and cuteness.

Moreover, given that Barbiecore is a trend taking over the internet and the hearts of IRL fashion lovers right now, diving into pink grunge clothes is a good bet on your fashion sense.

Fishnet Long Sleeve Crop Top Plus Size Retro Pleated Dark Blue Denim Skirt

8. Purple Grunge

Purple Pants, Jacket, or Accessories (in Grunge Aesthetic Patterns)

Grunge Purple Aesthetic
Grunge Purple Aesthetic Outfits

Hailed as a color of luxury and royalty in the past – because the dye was hard to obtain – purple is slowly making its way into grunge aesthetic styles.

Moreover, the purple grunge aesthetic goes beyond clothes and translates into dyed purple hair, patterns, details, and accessories.

The purple grunge aesthetic is the best way to add color to your personality for an extra ‘wowing’ effect.

Wide Denim Shorts Soft Girl Aesthetic Fire Knitted Aesthetic Sweater

9. Green Grunge

Green Details Combined With Dark Grunge Aesthetic (and Chunky Chains)

Grunge Green Aesthetic
Grunge Green Aesthetic Outfits

Earthy, humble, and very underrated, the green grunge aesthetic is highly suitable for a perfect mix of ‘70s fashion silhouettes and modern fabrics.

Add a dash of gold jewelry to your green grunge clothes, and you’ve got a killer outfit.

Long Sleeve Neon Fishnet Top Face Tag Three Layer Chain Necklace
Light Reflective Lines Cyberpunk Pants

 




10. Black Grunge

Knee Ripped Jeans or Black Plaid Skirt, Black Top, Black Denim Jacket (With Leather Platform Boots)

Black Grunge Aesthetic
Black Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

Like the classic ’90s grunge aesthetic, the black grunge style look focuses on dark colors, oversized tops, army boots, and gothic-style jewelry.

Going hand-in-hand with any grunge aesthetic clothes, this look is a great jumping-off point for those new to the grunge style.

Heart Buckle Love Aesthetic Belt Darkness Devil Chainsaw Man Black T-Shirt
High Waist Ripped Straight Leg Jeans p

11. Blue Grunge

Ripped Blue Jeans or Blue Plaid Mini Skirt Combined With Other Grunge Aesthetic Outfits (and Blue Hair)

Grunge Blue Aesthetic
Grunge Blue Aesthetic Outfits

Blue hair has been a part of grunge culture and style since the late ’90s and early 2000s fashion.

In recent years, the color has seeped into grunge clothing, aesthetics, and styles.

The quickest way to add a bit of blue grunge-ness to your style is via blue hair dye or blue accessories to the overall look.

https://aestheticclothes.shop/en-gb/collections/y2k-aesthetic-clothes?sort_by=best-selling&filter.v.option.color=Blue&filter.v.price.gte=&filter.v.price.lte= Sailor Luna Cat Van Gogh T-Shirt
Retro Denim Blue High Waist Jeans Chainsaw Man Manga Bucket Hat Double Sided

12. Grunge White

Mini White Skirts or Straight Leg Jeans, Grunge Tops, and Accessories (With Black Leather Belts and Boots)

Grunge White Aesthetic
Grunge White Aesthetic Outfits

On the opposite stylistic spectrum of the dark and black grunge aesthetics, white grunge clothes are trendy now.

White is a clean and neutral color that can be blended into any grunge and look quite well.

However, you want to make sure you don’t go all white and that the clothes you’re going to wear are a bit worn out.

Coquette Fashion Сrop Blouse White Mesh Top Basic High Waist Pleated Skort
Heart Buckle Rivets Black Belt




13. Red Grunge

Red Plaid Skirt or Red Jeans, Black Grunge Top With Red Details (Black Accessories & Leather Boots)

Red Grunge Aesthetic
Red Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

Regarding grunge aesthetics, red and black are cut from the same cloth.

Pair them together; the result is a fiery, red grunge aesthetic style you can’t ignore.

Since red symbolizes passion, adding this color to your grunge outfits will draw attention and create memorable moments.

Mesh Insert Long Sleeved Top Rebel Checked Skirt

14. Yellow Grunge

Yellow Oversized Flannels, Yellow Plaid Mini Skirt, Black Grunge Tees (With Converse or Doc Martens Boots)

Grunge Yellow Aesthetic
Grunge Yellow Aesthetic Outfits

If you worry about looking like a bumble bee, I do not recommend adding black to your grunge outfit when creating a yellow grunge aesthetic.

Unless, of course, that’s the aim, and there’s nothing wrong with that.

To pull the yellow grunge look, start with some older yellow clothes and pair them with similar color accessories and shoes, verging towards an indie/grunge appearance.

Calamity Plaid Bondage Skirt Chest Chains Crop Top Grunge Aesthetic

 

15. Neon Grunge

Neon Pants, Shirts, or Other Eye-catching Accessories With Dark Garments Mixed-in

Grunge Neon Aesthetic
Grunge Neon Aesthetic Outfits

In recent years, I’ve seen lots of unique grunge styles emerging.

Neon grunge aesthetic is one of them, a look that pairs well with skeleton patterns since many companies create neon skeletons.

Unlike rave outfits, the grunge neon aesthetic unique look is built on brighter clothes with dark basics to confer a stylish pop-rock grunge overall vibe.

Franken Skull Green Striped Sweater Shadow Skirt




16. Grey Grunge

Grey Straight Leg Grey-fitted Jeans or a Grey Oversized Shacket (With Grunge Tees and Boots)

Grey Grunge Aesthetic
Grey Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

A layer up (chromatically) from black and dark grunge aesthetics, grey grunge is seen as a terrific aesthetic suitable for those into minimalist-style clothes.

Clean and simplistic, recreating the grey grunge aesthetic is easy, requiring contrasting jewelry and mix-matching clothes in grey shades.

Curtis Black Grey Striped Knit Jumper Baggy Cargo Pants for Women

17. 80s Grunge

Straight-leg Jeans, Dark Green or Red Flannel Shirts Over Cropped Tops, and Leather Combat Boots or Converse Shoes

80s Grunge Aesthetic
80s Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

While grunge became a cultural phenomenon in the ’90s, the 80s fashion had its fair share of grunge looks.

A bit more tailored than the following oversized grunge, the ’80s grunge aesthetic is also a great entry point for those new to the style.

To dress like an ’80s grunge, blend in the eclectic glamour of the decade with grunge shirts in dark colors and used fabrics.

Tartan Flap Pocket Drop Shoulder Shirt Classic High Waist Vintage Jeans
Ribbed Trapeze Crop Top

 

18. Y2K Grunge

Washed Low-rise Jeans or Cargo Pants, Distressed Hoodies Over Cropped Tops or Corsets, Mini Purses, Double Grommet Belt, and Chunky Shoes

Y2K Grunge Aesthetic
Y2K Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

Y2K aesthetic has been taking over the runways for the last two seasons, driving a surge in popularity for the Y2K grunge aesthetic.

To create a compelling Y2K grunge aesthetic outfit, mix in used clothes in bright pastels with glittering details and trademark accessories of Y2K fashion.

Often sported by Lana Del Rey, Miley Cyrus, and Billie Eilish, the Y2K grunge trend draws inspiration from the music scene of the 2000s.

Alternative Aesthetic Khaki Cargo Pants Black Heart Lock Choker
Salem Team College Style Hoodie

 




19. Post-Grunge

Loose Skirts, Band Shirts or Graphic Tees, and Leather Details (With Converse Shoes)

Post-Grunge Aesthetic
Post-Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

The post-grunge aesthetic vibes are similar to the ’80s grunge but with more tailored pieces and neutral tones.

Compared to the darker grunge aesthetics described above, the post-grunge aesthetic has a softer edge and a more manageable touch.

Cigarettes After Sex T-Shirt Music Lover Aesthetic Converse Chuck Taylor All Star Move Hi sneakers in black

20. Grunge Rock

Thigh-highs, Leather Platform Boots, and Mini Skirts (or Shorts), With Cropped Top Over Long Sleeves

Grunge Rock Aesthetic
Grunge Rock Aesthetic Outfits

Considering that punk and rock are the most popular musical genres of this aesthetic, grunge rock styles come as no surprise.

The aesthetic is similar to the 90s classic grunge look but with a deeper touch of the trash rock style.

That is ripped jeans, rock band shirts, army-style boots, and accessories, all well-used and fading out.

Two Tone Raglan Sleeve Crop Tee Concord 108 Boot
Raw Hem Distressed Denim Shorts

21. Pastel Grunge

Pastel Skirt and a Black Top (or Vice Versa) With Leather Boots and Pastel Accessories

Pastel Grunge Aesthetic
Pastel Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

If darker colors aren’t your thing, but a grunge aesthetic is something you want to try, leaning towards pastel looks is the way forward.

Playing with the same basics that make up the root of the grunge aesthetic, just in pastel shades, can be a bit more flirty and fun.

Pastel Kuromi Aesthetic Crop Top South Beach crop top with piping detail in black with matching set




22. Indie Grunge

Grunge Plaid Pants and Denim Jacket in Yellow and Red Colors (With Layered Necklaces)

Indie Grunge Aesthetic
Indie Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

The perfect option for spring and summer, the Indie grunge aesthetic is ideal for creating fashion looks that will get you many compliments.

With roots in the androgynous grunge style, the Indie Grune aesthetic mixes vintage details with floral patterns of indie aesthetic and accessories with intricate details.

Extro & Vert Bridal lace corset with detachable straps Plaid Print Straight Leg Pants
Old Washed Gray Denim Jacket

 

23. Grunge Goth

Black Mini Skirts or Distressed Denim Shorts, Black Top, Black Tights, and Doc Martens Boots (With Dark Makeup, Silver Jewellery, and Teased Hair)

Grunge Goth Aesthetic
Grunge Goth Aesthetic Outfits

While the classic Goth style is inspired by the Victorian dressing style with laces, velvet, and corsets, the Grunge Goth aesthetic is slightly more random.

As such, the Grunge Goth aesthetic showcases a blend of tailored clothes, tights with dresses, skirts, and lots of rock band accessories.

Dark Fashion Goth Corset Vest Schoolgirl Aesthetic Double Belt Pleated Skirt

24. Grunge Punk

Torn and Patched Leather or Denim Jackets, Shorts, or Skirts in Plaid Patterns Over Tights (With Voluminous Red or Green Colored Hairstyle)

Grunge Punk Aesthetic
Grunge Punk Aesthetic Outfits

Like the grunge-rock aesthetic, the grunge-punk style showcases many chains, jewelry, and plaid details.

Aiming for an eye-catching aesthetic, don’t be afraid of brighter colors when putting together your grunge punk look.

Double Collar Retro Denim Jacket Grunge Aesthetic Crop Top
Soft Grunge Tattoo Black Translucent Tights Alternative Aesthetic Circle Rivet Bracelet

 




25. Skater Grunge

Distressed Flannels Over Band Tops, Loose Washed Jeans, Wide Belts (With Converse or Vans)

Grunge Skater Aesthetic
Grunge Skater Aesthetic Outfits

With oversized and intentionally unfitted clothing, the skater grunge aesthetic is a dapper style in 2023.

The aim is to create stylistic chaos while retaining a sense of cohesion.

 Large View SLIPKNOT WANYK LOGO SHIRT Vans Cruze Too CC sneakers in black and white
HELL BUNNY Rider Jeans

26. Grunge Emo

High-rise Pants, Black Band Tees, Large Leather Belts, Lace-up Shoes or Simple Trainers (With a Beanie)

Grunge Emo Aesthetic
Grunge Emo Aesthetic Outfits

The Grunge-Emo aesthetic is a sprout of the Grunge Goth style, which retains its dark roots but mixes with Emo outfits in brighter colors such as pink, blue, and purple.

Silver hearts, locks, and traditional Grunge accessories in silver are an ideal match for the Grunge Emo aesthetic.

ASOS DESIGN chunky sneakers in black Fall Out Boy Grim Reapers Men’s T Shirt
Alien Knitted Beanie Hat

27. Vintage Grunge

Mix Match Vintage Patterned Fabrics With Lots of Vintage Jewelry (in an Untidy Way)

Vintage Grunge Aesthetic
Vintage Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

The vintage clothing Grunge aesthetic is a modern reinterpretation of the ‘60s fashion styles.

Marked by eclectics and plenty of details, the Grunge part of this look comes into play thanks to the messiness and looseness of the overall style.

Wearing 60’s style garments is OK, as long as they are well-worn and distressed.

Vintage Square Plaid Weirdcore Shirt Patchwork High Waist Skirt
ASOS DESIGN 4 pack of layered necklaces with chunky faux freshwater pearls and evil eye beads




28. Grunge Skeleton

Skeleton Tees Under a Flannel Shirt or a Jacket, Ripped Jeans, and Leather Boots (With Heavy Makeup)

Grunge Skeleton Aesthetic
Grunge Skeleton Aesthetic Outfits

If goth styles are linked to vampires, Grunge outfits will forever be tied with skeletons.

Putting the look together is easy; mix classic Grunge aesthetic clothes with oversized skeleton shirts or accessories.

Skeleton Ribs Tote Handbag Addamscore Aesthetic Skeleton Hand Design Bracelet
Darkest Love Top

 

29. Grunge Heart

Dark Purple T-shirt With Heart Details, Black Pleated Mini Skirt Over Tights (and a Heart Shape Silver Chain)

Grunge Heart Aesthetic Outfits
Grunge Heart Aesthetic Outfits

Filled with small heart details, this isn’t your traditional Valentine’s Day look.

More suitable for a broken heart club, the Grunge Heart aesthetic will mentally and stylistically prepare you.

With hearts broken or malformed, the Grunge heart aesthetic is the choice for dramatic lovers.

Black Heart in Flames Ripped Sweater Heart Buckle Aesthetic Martens Boots
ROMWE Anime Ombre Striped Trim Pleated Skirt

 

30. Witchy Grunge

Peter Pan Collars, Black Velvet Midi Dress, Rosaries, Tights, and Combat Boots (With a Witchy Hat!)

Grunge Halloween Aesthetic
Witchy Grunge Aesthetic Outfits

If Halloween is your favorite holiday, you might as well take it with you year-round.

Creating an almost witchy take on Grunge, this off-shoot of the Grunge aesthetic is ideal for adding spookiness to your day.

And if you don’t know where to start, channel your inner Wednesday Adams.

Halloween Hypnosis Cardigan Gothic Contrast Bat Collar Button Front Velvet Dress




FAQs

What Defines Grunge Style?

The grunge style is defined by worn-out, dark, brown, or grey flannel shirts, ripped jeans, and thrift clothing worn in a loose, androgynous manner that de-emphasizes one’s silhouette.

What is a Soft Grunge Aesthetic?

The soft grunge aesthetic is a variation of the classic grunge style that embraces pastel colors, such as lighter pinks and blues. Soft grunge outfits include studs and spikes, Vans skate shoes, platform shoes, floral dresses, flower crowns, and pleated skirts.

What is Grunge Fairycore?

Fairycore, also called Faecore, Fairywave, or Fairy Grunge, is a contemporary variation of the grunge aesthetic that mixes the aesthetics of Fairycore and Grunge styles, defined by explorations of natural themes, butterflies, soft fluffy animals, flowers, and a bit of magic.

Conclusion

In a world where mainstream fashion is limiting and uninspiring, wearing a style based on the grunge aesthetic is a unique and exciting alternative.

Not only does grunge style offer a refreshing departure from the norm, but it also allows you to express yourself authentically and without reservation.

Through grunge aesthetic outfits, you’re making powerful statements showcasing your love for creativity, individuality, and a passion for the unconventional.

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Keep up with the latest in fashion, beauty and style!

A University of Oxford graduate in Design History, Katherine Saxon is researching arising TikTok cultures from a consumer psychology perspective while covering emerging aesthetics in fashion and beauty for TheVOU, Forbes, Business Insider, and more.

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