From Hooch to Reef, why the '90s alcopop is still all that and a bag of chips
Some things - The Macarena, Rimmel's Heather Shimmer lippy and boob tubes, to name a few - can stay in the past, but if like me you spent your teenage years necking Hooch with your mates to a soundtrack of TLC while trying on push-up bras and contemplating your first tattoo, you'll be desperate for another swig of the good times.
Luckily for us all, all the old faves are "Cleopatra Comin' Atcha", thanks to a huge '90s revival across the board - from pedal pushers to Noel and Liam - and we can't get enough.
Whether it's a themed hen do, a big birthday or you're seeing some of the best bands from yesteryear on stage this summer, it could be time to swap your G&T tinnies for alcopops.
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Hooch, Breezer, Reef and VKs ruled the roost with their sweet flavours and lurid colours, so how do they measure up today?
Here's why the alcopop is still all that and a bag of chips...
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Breezer - BUY NOW
Sporting an updated look and three new flavours - Zesty Orange, Zing Lime and Crisp Watermelon - the iconic bottle has relaunched in bars and stores this month, and it definitely Smells Like Teen Spirit.
With an RRP of £2 and a 3.4%ABV, it won't break the bank, and as Claire Presland, global director of Breezer said: "Whether you're reliving nights gone by, or discovering Breezer for the first time, this summer is the perfect time to try its three new flavours and discover which one is your fruity favourite."
Smirnoff Ice - BUY NOW
A personal fave of mine, this lemon-lime vodka mix was always a great refresher, whether swigged straight from the bottle '90s-style or "poured into a tall glass over cubed ice and garnished with a lemon wedge", as recommended by the folks at Smirnoff.
They say that "it's the ideal gift for any vodka connoisseurs" - I say it's great for UK garage connoisseurs who reckon "With a little bit of this, we can make it through the night..."
Reef - BUY NOW
Heading to a festival? The brand-new release of Reef this month comes in resealable cartons - a first in the UK alcoholic ready to drink market.
Lighter than the original glass bottles and fully recyclable, it's a timely update on the drink, which returned to shelves last year in bottle form to give fans old and new a taste of that iconic orange and passion fruit.
It's sure to be a hit with Gen Z, thanks to its lower ABV and light, fruity flavour, making it ideal for picnics and gatherings rather than caning it '90s-style.
Place Your Hand On, Place Your Hands On... a bottle of Reef.
VK - BUY NOW
Cherry has already proven a hit in interiors and beauty for 2025, and now the OG alcopop is available in a sparkling Black Cherry flavour, too.
The 3.4% vodka mix is stocked in Tesco, Asda, Morrisons, Home Bargains and B&M, and even comes in a mega mixed party pack with a range of flavours, including Strawberry & Lime, Orange & Passionfruit, Apple & Mango and, of course, Blue (don't forget what that does to your teeth, people!).
We are loving the slick dark cherry bottles - it's giving Wednesday Addams with a twist of B*Witched.
Hooch - BUY NOW
This summer is Hooch's 30th anniversary (yes, we feel old too!), and to celebrate there's a re-release of the 1995 can, featuring the iconic lemon design, plus a new Cherry flavour.
Not only that, but in some bars and pubs across the UK, true fans of the drink can find it on draught, for the first time ever, plus in a 24-pack for £38.
Hooch was, for many 40-somethings, their first brush with booze, and it's always been the brand that's stood for "unapologetic irreverence" - perfect if you're still celebrating the Oasis tour, Some Might Say...
All the 90s trends that are making a comeback
WE might be in 2024, but fashion fans are looking to the past when it comes to new styles. So what trends from the 90s are making a comeback these days?
Claw clips
These hair accessories were a huge trend back in the 90s, but are now most popular among those trying out the "clean girl" aesthetic. Designers such as Prada have released their own versions, while there are thousands of colours and styles to choose from on the high street.
Platform flip flops
Again a popular choice among fashionistas in the 90s, these heels have made a comeback with designers such as Balenciaga trying their luck with their own styles.
Cargo pants
Once worn by the stars of All Saints, cargo pants became a popular trend for teens in the 90s. But they've now had a fashion overhaul, with stars such as Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber all putting their own spin on the trend.
Jeans and a nice top
It was the phrase that defined fashion for a decade, and now famous faces such as Sofia Richie are sporting the reinvented trend - pairing their own denims with a more sophisticated top. But are you willing to dig your jeans and nice tops out of the wardrobe for a second time?
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