Hulu’s latest documentary series, “In Vogue: The 90s offers a captivating look into a decade that not only reshaped the fashion landscape but also redefined cultural norms. With archival footage, interviews, and expert commentary, the series highlights how fashion magazines like Vogue became not just trendsetters but cultural landmarks.
The series begins promptly, with a poignant statement from former Vogue Editor-In-Chief Anna Wintour, who shares, “In the 90’s, we were at the forefront of not just fashion, but a whole new way of thinking about beauty”.
This encapsulates the ethos of the decade, where fashion became a powerful tool for self-expression and identity exploration.
One of the most striking elements of the series is its focus on the supermodels who dominated the 90s. Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, and Kate Moss were celebrated not just for their iconic looks but for their influence on society.
As Campbell notes in one episode — “We were not just models: we were part of a movement. We represented a new era”.
This resonated heavily throughout the series, illustrating how these women challenged traditional notions of beauty and femininity.
The docuseries also sheds light on the connection between fashion and music, highlighting collaborations that shaped these industries.
The series features memorable moments, such as when Vogue hosted a runway show in collaboration with hip-hop artists and stylist Karl Lagerfeld, who stated, “Fashion was breaking down barriers: it was becoming accessible.” This melding of genres helped introduce fashion into a more mainstream culture, where it became intertwined with music, art, and politics.
However, the series doesn’t shy away from discussing the darker side of the industry.
Fashion journalist Andre Leon Talley said, “We must confront the impact of these images. They shaped a generation’s understanding of beauty, often in harmful ways”.
This critical perspective provides a necessary balance, reminding viewers that while the 90s were a time of innovation, they were also marked by a flawed standard of beauty.
”In Vogue: The 90s” provides both nostalgia as well as a thoughtful examination of the complexities within the fashion world. It reminds us that the clothes we wear are often intertwined with deeper societal narratives. As Wintour concludes, “Fashion is a reflection of who we are, and the 90s taught us to embrace our individuality”.
The series serves not only as an homage to a vibrant era in history but also as a mirror reflecting ongoing conversations about diversity, representation, and the evolving nature of beauty in today’s society.
For anyone interested in fashion, culture, or the complexities of identity, “In Vogue: The 90s” is an absolute must-watch, inspiring discussions that are as relevant now as they were then.
While watching this series, I felt like I was able to tap into a whole new side of my own personality — through the language, imagery, and descriptions, I entered the world of fashion, culture, and music. It changed my perspective for the better.
