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The devil works hard, but Katie Holmes’ wardrobe works harder.

The actress is a walking carousel of nostalgic looks, often showcasing her unparalleled self-styling skills via low-key New York strolls and coffee runs. 

On Wednesday, Katie was spotted on her daily walkabout, championing a look that strongly tugged at our sentimental heartstrings.

katie holmes in red pumps© GC Images
The actress oozed 90s nostalgia

She layered up to combat the city chill in a tan-toned blazer complete with a single-breasted cut, layered over a simple white tee and light-wash blue jeans with a wide-leg silhouette. 

However, the Broadway regular served up a thoroughly Nineties spin on the seemingly classic concoction. She accessorised with an oversized chunky knit beanie and matching scarf, both in black, in addition to a pair of throwback cat-eye sunglasses in the same dark hue. 

katie holmes in a pair of red velvet pumps © GC Images
A pair of red velvet pumps added a touch of cool-girl charm to the throwback looks

In her hands, she clutched a large suede tote Hermès bag in a soft vanilla hue which she shielded from the East coast drizzle. A pair of velvet pumps made for a cool-girl note.

Her combination of accessories heavily leaned into the grunge aesthetic pioneered by 90s iconic such as Blur, Oasis, Kurt Cobain and a young Johnny Depp (during the Kate Moss era - of course.)

Oasis, 1998© Getty
Oasis, 1998
Kurt Cobain, 1993© Getty
Kurt Cobain, 1993
Johnny Depp, 1995© Getty
Johnny Depp, 1995

The 90s grunge aesthetic was all about effortless rebellion and anti-establishment style. Popularised by bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam, it featured flannel shirts, ripped jeans, combat boots, and oversized sweaters.

A skill Katie has mastered, layering was key, often paired with graphic tees and worn-out sneakers. Dark, moody tones like black, grey, and deep reds dominated, reflecting the era’s edgy vibe. Grunge was a mix of thrift-store finds and DIY aesthetics, redefining casual cool - one rarely-washed beanie at a time. 

The actress is evidently revelling in her pre-2000 garments as of late. Last week, she was spotted styling out a pair of blue jorts layered over a pair of tights, teamed with black leather loafers, a crisp camel shirt and a longline black winter coat coolly worn on top.

Her go-to pair of oversized cat-eye sunglasses with a tortoiseshell rim made for a throwback statement, which was accentuated once again by her large leather Hermès Birkin in a neutral stone hue. Black beanie included - of course.

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