90s designer chic at Zara prices …thanks to a classy new collaboration with Narciso Rodriguez

That the 1990s is firmly back in fashion has been nothing to cheer about for any woman past the age of being able to wear low-rise jeans and cropped tops.

But there was always much more to the decade than dressing like Paris Hilton — as Zara’s new collection proves. The High Street chain’s latest collaboration, with Narciso Rodriguez, is a timely reminder that there are other ways to reference the 1990s than by baring your midriff and wearing ugly shoes. 

It was also a decade beloved for its minimalism: think pared-back style in simple shapes and classic colours. 

At the vanguard of this movement was Rodriguez, an American-Cuban who worked with Donna Karan and Calvin Klein before launching his own label in 1997. 

Bodysuit, £99.99 and straight-fit trousers, £109

Left: Gathered dress, £159. Right: Satin tie top, £89.99, and satin trousers, £109

His name may not be as well-known as Klein’s, but he is just as influential. He designed Carolyn BessetteKennedy’s wedding dress in 1996, and was Michelle Obama’s go-to for the simple monotone shift dresses that became her trademark as First Lady. 

White midi dress, £159

His clothes, like their creator, are self-effacing. A Rodriguez coat, dress or trouser suit doesn’t shout its presence from the rooftops but whispers of quiet luxury, free of superfluous details and fastenings. Happily for fans, said luxury now comes with a (slightly) more accessible price point, in high-quality fabrics. 

Satin top, £89.99, and satin skirt, £99.99

Standout items from the new Zara collection include black satin trousers (above, £109) in this season’s wide-leg shape, a black woollen three-quarter length coat (£349) and a simple white leather clutch bag (£149). Rodriguez favours a monotone palette, although there is one sleeveless dress in red (above, £159) — a version of a grey one worn by Kate Moss in 1997.