There’s something incredibly nostalgic and heartwarming about looking back at the 90s—especially when it comes to fashion inspired by the places and experiences that shaped us. So when I saw Parker York Smith’s video about recreating a classic TGI Fridays look, I couldn’t help but smile. Like Parker, I have vivid, feel-good memories of family dinners and special weekends spent at our local TGI Fridays, complete with zesty fajitas and loud, laughter-filled booths.

If you’ve ever wanted to capture that playful, “anything goes” spirit in your own 90s themed outfit, you’re in the right spot. Let’s break down the style, piece by piece, and I’ll share some of my own tried-and-true tips—plus a few stories from my closet!

Nailing the Basics: Shirt, Pants, and That Pop of Red

Just like Parker, I find building a look is all about the layers. For an authentic TGI Fridays vibe, here’s what you’ll want:

White Tank Top — The Foundation Layer

Brand & Comfort: My go-to is Hanes or Kohl’s for a versatile, comfortable white tank. It should fit snugly but not restrictively—perfect for those busy nights (real or imagines) waiting tables or just dancing with friends.
Washing & Care: Tanks are easy—machine wash cold, throw in the dryer, and you’re done.

Red Satiny Shirt — The Statement Piece

Color & Material: Parker’s use of a red, slightly satiny button-up is spot on. The 90s loved bold primaries and a touch of sheen. I actually thrifted a similar one from Goodwill last year—look for something with a loose fit and short sleeves you can roll up.
Fit & Style: Go slightly oversized for comfort and authenticity. Just like staff uniforms, this isn’t supposed to be form-fitting; it’s about movement and a laid-back attitude.
Return/Exchange: If you’re buying new, always check the return policy; satin materials can be tricky and sometimes show imperfections right away.

Flowing Black Trousers — Bringing the Look Together

Fabric: Lightweight polyester or viscose blends replicate the uniform look. They drape perfectly and are gloriously forgiving after a big serving of sizzling fajitas!
Size & Comfort: The 90s loved a generous fit, so don’t be afraid to size up or find a pair with a bit of stretch at the waist. I love how they make every body type look both cool and comfortable.

Add Personality with “Flair”: Belts, Pins, and More

The soul of a 90s TGI Fridays uniform lies in its “flair”—those badges, buttons, and wild accessories that made every staff member unique (and every visit memorable).

Statement Belt & Vest

Zebra Print Belt: I adore this playful touch. A bold belt—like Parker’s zebra print—pops against the black trousers and pulls the whole look together. I found mine at a vintage shop downtown, but check online for affordable options if you’re short on time.
Waistcoat: Instead of suspenders, a black vest (waistcoat) is the perfect substitute. If you don’t have a stockpile of pins and badges, grab some quirky enamel pins online or at thrift stores. They’re inexpensive, customizable, and so much fun to collect.

Flair Pins & Buttons

Collectibles: Dig into your jewelry box or hit up sites like V Flippa’s Pop Culture section for unique pins. Mix in retro band logos, classic brands, or even a dash of humor.
DIY Flair: Get creative—use stickers or felt shapes attached with safety pins until you’re happy with the arrangement.

Big Boots & Finger “Flare”

Shoes: Chunky, platform, or combat boots (think Dr. Martens or thrifted lug soles) ground the outfit in pure 90s attitude. Don’t worry about being “too much”—the more personality, the better!
Accessories: Parker’s “finger flair” is campy-cool—think fun rings or even mood rings for the full throwback effect.

The Power of Personal Nostalgia: Making It Your Own

When I put together this kind of look, I always end up laughing at myself—in the best way. There’s something liberating about dressing LOUD and not caring if everything matches. My first TGI Fridays memory is of the sizzling fajitas so hot I was afraid to touch them, and the servers whose uniforms glittered under neon lights. I see a bit of that spark every time I wear a vest loaded with buttons or a wacky print belt.

Here are a few reasons to embrace this 90s themed outfit:

Self-Expression: Turn up the individuality; the more oddball accessories, the truer to the Fridays spirit.
Purpose: Perfect for retro parties, themed dinners, or just brightening up a gloomy week.
Price: Nearly everything can be thrifted or found budget-friendly.
Return & Exchange: Vintage items often aren’t returnable, so try them on or measure carefully before you buy.
Washing: Most pins and accessories can be removed before washing to keep your look intact for the next wear.

If you want to see more creative inspiration or track down retro statement pieces, check out the nostalgia & retro section or something from the design style collection. The thrill of discovering unique finds is part of what makes the style journey so much fun!

Conclusion: Let Your Inner Server Shine

Whether you rocked the 90s in person or are living it vicariously, there’s immense joy in dressing up with humor and flair. Channel your favorite memories, pile on the accessories, and remember—style is meant to make you smile.

So, what spot should we revisit next? And what’s the wildest pin you’ve ever found? I hope you’ll keep playing, experimenting, and celebrating your one-of-a-kind take on 90s themed outfits. After all, sometimes, you just need a little flair to make the everyday feel like a party.

Explore more pop culture fashion and keep the good vibes sizzling!

@parkeryorksmith Replying to @emmiemayberry TGI Fridays inspired outfit – so much flair #90s #outfitinspo #tgifridays ♬ original sound – Parker York Smith

Replying to @emmiemayberry TGI Fridays inspired outfit – so much flair #90s #outfitinspo #tgifridays

“I think we just need a 90s restaurant fashion series.

I truly could not agree more.
Let’s do it. Somebody suggested TGI Fridays,
and I thought that was a fantastic idea.
Here’s a little reminder of what they used to wear.
I think we’ll leave on this white tank top that I’m currently wearing.
This is from kohl’s. And I think we’ll do my red sort of satiny shirt.
The polos they wore were short sleeves.
I think we got to just roll up our sleeves a little bit.
I’m pretty sure they wore black pants,
so for mine, I think we’ll go with some big,
flowy black trousers. Growing up,
TGI Fridays was like one of our nice dinners out on the weekend spots.
And almost more than the uniforms,
the memory that sticks in my mind are those fajitas.
The sizzling thing where you just be like,
is that safe to eat? Let’s start getting into a little bit of flair
with the zebra print belt.
I don’t know if this is accurate,
but I feel like Fridays also had checkerboard involved somehow.
Now instead of suspenders,
we’re gonna take this waistcoat,
and we are gonna add every freaking piece of flair
I could find in my closet.
I realize there are a lot of gaps,
a lot of room for opportunity,
but not too bad for just throwing it together.
Let’s also add in some finger flare.
And let’s really have some fun with it with these Big,
ridiculous boots. 90s TGI Fridays,
but make it fashion. You can just picture it, right?
Sizzling fajitas in this hand.
A one gallon fish bowl. Long Island Iced Tea in this hand.
Coming right up. I’ll be right with you guys. What should we do next?”