How to Make Your Own Grunge Rock Nirvana Mini Skirt - DIY Style

The History and Style of Nirvana Skirts

Nirvana, the legendary grunge rock band from Aberdeen, Washington, skyrocketed to fame in the early 1990s with their unique sound and iconic fashion style. Lead singer Kurt Cobain was known for wearing vibrantly colored cardigans and oversized grandpa sweaters, perfectly complementing the band's gritty, raw music. One key element of the Nirvana look that really took off was the mini skirt worn by bassist Krist Novoselic and drummer Dave Grohl.

The Grunge Movement

Nirvana came onto the scene at the height of the grunge movement, which originated in Seattle and combined elements of punk rock and heavy metal. Grunge fashion centered around thrift store finds, flannel shirts, ripped jeans, Doc Martens boots and mini skirts. It was meant to look dirtier and edgier than the overly produced glam metal bands of the 1980s. The mini skirt allowed Nirvana to put a feminine twist on the decidedly masculine grunge aesthetic.

Nirvana's Iconic Mini Skirts

Both Novoselic and Grohl would often perform live in short, tight mini skirts paired with ripped tights or leggings underneath. Their skirts were typically made of leather or denim, though sometimes plaid as well. The skirts showed off their long legs and added a provocative element to their stage presence. Along with their wild hair flying as they thrashed around, Nirvana created an instantly recognizable look that thousands of fans wanted to emulate.

Influence on 90s Fashion

Nirvana brought the mini skirt from the underground grunge scene into the mainstream music world. Their success and MTV airtime made the baby doll mini skirt popular attire for women across America throughout the 1990s. Like band t-shirts, the iconic Nirvana mini skirt became a way for fans to show their devotion to the band while also taking part in a major fashion trend. Department stores began selling affordable versions of the band's signature skirts to cater to their widespread appeal.

How to Make Your Own Nirvana Inspired Skirt

Want to rock the legendary Nirvana look? Making your own DIY mini skirt is easy and affordable. Here are some tips for getting the grunge goddess style of Novoselic and Grohl:

Choose Your Fabric

Stick to denim, leather, corduroy or a plaid flannel print to get the authentic grunge vibe. Go for a stretchy fabric that will hug your body. For extra durability, select thick, sturdy materials like jean or leather. Distressed fabrics with rips, holes and a worn-in look add to the 90s grunge aesthetic.

Find a Base Skirt

One of the easiest ways to make a Nirvana skirt is to take a long skirt and cut it into a mini. Search your closet or local thrift stores for floor length skirts made of denim, leather or other grunge-appropriate fabrics. Try repurposing a dated long skirt from the 80s or 90s for a cool vintage style.

Cut It Short

Lay your base skirt flat and decide how short you want the finished mini to be. Measure up from the bottom hem and mark a cutting line for your desired length. For the true Nirvana vibe, try cutting it extremely short - go anywhere from 12 to 18 inches long. Cut along your marked line to transform the skirt into a mini.

Add Distressed Details

To give your skirt that broken-in, well-worn grunge look, add some distressed details. Use scissors to cut slits and jagged hems along the bottom. Create a few small holes and rips randomly placed around the skirt. Fray the edges and threads for extra unraveling. The more imperfections, the better!

Accessorize for an Iconic Look

Finish off your DIY Nirvana mini with the right accessories for an iconic 90s style. Layer ripped tights or leggings underneath. Try combat boots or Converse sneakers on your feet. Top it off with an oversized band tee and flannel tied around your waist. Tease your hair out and you'll look like you just stepped off stage with Kurt, Krist and Dave!

The Lasting Influence of Nirvana's Style

Though the grunge movement has long since faded away, Nirvana's groundbreaking fashion choices can still be felt today. Their daring mix of feminine mini skirts and rugged menswear changed perceptions about what rockstars could wear. Musicians are now free to express themselves through fashion without needing to conform to rigid gender norms. Nirvana's timeless look continues to inspire new generations of idols and fans decades later.

Through music and style, Nirvana left an immense cultural impact during their short run. We can celebrate Kurt Cobain's creative genius and the band's game-changing sound by paying homage to their iconic mini skirts and grunge style. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering their look, making your own DIY Nirvana skirt lets you tap into the rebellious, free-spirited attitude that made them so legendary.

FAQs

What fabrics were used for Nirvana's mini skirts?

Nirvana commonly wore mini skirts made of denim, leather, or plaid flannel. Krist Novoselic often opted for denim while Dave Grohl tended to wear leather skirts.

How short were Nirvana's mini skirts?

Extremely short! Their signature mini skirts typically measured between 12-18 inches in length to showcase their legs and provide ease of movement onstage.

Where can I find a base skirt to make my own DIY Nirvana mini?

Check thrift stores for cheap, long skirts in fabrics like denim, leather, and flannel that you can cut into a mini. You may also find dated 80s/90s skirts that have a cool vintage vibe.

What accessories completed Nirvana's iconic mini skirt look?

Band tees, oversized flannels, combat boots, ripped tights, and leggings perfectly complemented Nirvana's mini skirts for that signature grunge style.

How can I get the distressed grunge look for my DIY skirt?

Cut slits and ragged hems, fray the edges, and create random holes and rips. The more imperfections, the better for nailing that worn-in 90s grunge aesthetic.