Founded in 1906, Cherry Blossom has been the nation’s favourite shoe care brand for 120 years, rising from humble beginnings in Edwardian London to becoming a household name and a globally recognised brand. We’ve been there through changing fashions, historic moments and everyday milestones.
For 120 years, Cherry Blossom has helped generations care for the shoes that carry them through life. As we continue our journey through the decades, we arrive in 1990s Britain – a time of Britpop, grunge, girl power and a much more relaxed approach to fashion.
Welcome to the ‘90s
The 1990s were all about individuality. Fashion was highly influenced by music, television and youth culture. From Britpop and grunge to the Spice Girls and the rise of streetwear, what you wore was a way to show who you were. Gone were the days when getting dressed up meant formal shoes every time. Trainers, boots and casual footwear were becoming just as at home on the high street as they were at the gym or on the dance floor.
1990s Footwear: Chunky, Casual and Cool
Trainers really came into their own during the 1990s. Sports-inspired styles moved firmly into everyday fashion, with colourful running shoes, basketball trainers and classic canvas designs becoming wardrobe staples.
Chunky soles and platform trainers were particularly popular, while brands competed to create increasingly distinctive designs. Trainers weren't just for sport anymore – they were an essential part of street style.
Boots were another defining look. Dr Martens became closely associated with grunge, alternative and Britpop fashion whilst chunky Chelsea boots and platform styles offered a bolder take on classic footwear.
For those dressing up, sleek court shoes, strappy sandals and pointed-toe styles remained popular. But even formal footwear was becoming more relaxed, reflecting the decade's preference for comfort and individuality.
Looking After ‘90s Footwear
With people wearing their favourite shoes more often and in more places, keeping footwear clean became increasingly important.
Leather boots and shoes benefited from regular cleaning, conditioning and polishing to remove dirt, restore their shine and protect them from everyday wear. Trainers needed attention too, particularly as white and lighter-coloured styles became increasingly popular.
A little shoe care could make a well-loved pair look fresher and help them last that little bit longer.
Cherry Blossom in the 1990s
As footwear became more varied, Cherry Blossom continued to help British households care for their shoes. From traditional leather school and work shoes to fashionable boots and everyday footwear, our trusted shoe care products helped keep shoes looking their best.
The styles may have been changing, but the reason for looking after them hadn't: a well-cared-for pair simply lasts longer and looks better.
A Decade That Changed Footwear
The 1990s helped transform shoes from something we simply wore into an important part of our identity and everyday style. Trainers became fashion, boots became cultural icons, and comfort became increasingly important.
Today, many of the decade's biggest footwear trends are back again. And just like in the 1990s, there's nothing better than getting plenty of wear out of a favourite pair, especially when you've taken the time to look after them.
Next article
