Maybe it was the resurgence of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy-core. Or maybe it was seeing actual vests in the wild—something I never thought I’d see after prom. Either way, this summer, I may be late to the game, but I’m finally hopping (back) on this ‘90s fashion trend. Caveat: My moodboard revolves around style icons I find just a hair less aspirational than Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. I’m talking about ‘90s movie moms. 

For the most part, ‘90s movie moms of teen protagonists are the ones slapping Post-Its on casseroles with oven temp and cook time instructions and delivering lines like “I’ll be back by 6–clean your room!” They’re the ones offering life advice while unloading groceries or grounding you lovingly. On the moral alignment scale, these characters are a lawful good—here for building the rules of the world then letting their chicks fly off to learn valuable lessons. 

And their dress code follows suit: A solid infrastructure of basics with a flourish here or there (this was the ‘90s), but keep the spandex and neon for Kelly Kapowski. I’m dressing like Carol Kapowski, her mother.

So, in honor of this hallowed hall of sidelined moms, including but not limited to the den mothers from Rookie of the Year (1993), The Parent Trap (1998), It Takes Two (1995), Kindergarten Cop (1990), The Mighty Ducks (1992) and Don’t Tell Mom the Babysitter’s Dead (1991), here is how I built my ‘90s movie mom look, no groundings needed.

1. White Button-Down: Not too oversized, not too trendy. It’s neat, reliable, tucked and belted or flowing a bit. 

2. White Tee: Another cornerstone of the ‘90s mom closet. Something kinda fitted but long enough to tuck in. 

3. Practical Vest: Yes, a vest. Not part of a three-piece suit or a statement piece—just a layer. It says: “I’m not trying too hard, but I did think about it.” It adds structure without sacrificing ease. 

4. Bermuda Shorts: These aren’t for flirting. They’re for parenting. Mid-thigh to knee-length denim, frayed or hemmed, high-rise in blue and black for option. 

5. Linen Blazer: A staple of every ‘90s mom on her way to work. Also conveniently spruces up a boring outfit. 

6. Slightly Oversized Jean Jacket: The casual cool thing you’d wear when you’re off the clock just in time to learn your kid’s entered a surprise jet ski contest to reunite you and your ex.

7. Belt: Something to bring the look together and really infuse that ‘90s look. Also, they hold up my pants. Mine is a vintage find.

8. Jeans: More denim. It’s the ’90s, baby. 

Ultimately, this look is about nice, neutral basics that can take you from daycare drop off to your 12 year old's first Major League game on the mound. And if anyone puts my linen vest in the dryer—you're grounded!

In 2025, I’m Channeling ‘90s Ralph Lauren Core