But what exactly is that design called, and why is it suddenly everywhere again?

As a leader in custom paper cup manufacturing, Zidan Packaging doesn't just produce modern solutions; we understand the deep connection between design history and brand identity. Here is everything you need to know about the most famous paper cup in history.

Screenshot from Pthriftcon: How Reddit Gave The ‘90s Jazz Graphic A Proper History

🎵1. What is the 90s paper cup design called?

It was created in 1991 by a designer named Gina Ekiss for the Sweetheart Cup Company (which was later bought by Solo). The designer was revealed till 2015 on Reddit when people started to inquire about the exact identity of designer.

A local reporter eventually reached out to her, seeking to uncover the inspiration and significance behind the "Jazz" cup design. As it turns out, however, the entire concept was nothing more than a random creation with no specific meaning attached. What’s more, she has not received any royalties for it over the years, since the design is the property of her company. 

The brief was simple: create something that looked "cool" and "dynamic" but was easy to print consistently. The result was the teal and purple brushstroke that defined a decade.

🎨2. What is the 90s design aesthetic called?

While the cup itself is "Jazz," the broader design style it belongs to is often called "Global Village," "Memphis Design" (late-stage), or more colloquially, "Radical 90s."

This style is characterized by:

✨3. Why is Gen Z obsessed with 90s style?

The jazz cup trademark belongs to Dart Container, who considered to get rid of this design. But they failed. People love it, so why bother?

You may have noticed that "Jazz" isn't just on cups anymore—it's on hoodies, car wraps, and phone cases. Gen Z's obsession with the 90s, often called "Newstalgia," stems from a few key factors:

• Escapism: The 90s are viewed as a "simpler" time before the total dominance of social media.
• Anti-Minimalism: After a decade of "Millennial Gray" and flat, minimal branding, young consumers are craving the bold, chaotic energy of 90s patterns.
• Thrifting Culture: The rise of Depop and vintage markets has made 90s aesthetics the gold standard for unique personal branding.

🔮4. What are some trendy cup design styles today?

While the 90s are back, modern cup design has evolved. As the best food packaging supplier in China, Zidan Packaging sees these three trends dominating the market in 2025:

🎯5. From "Jazz" to Modern Branding: Why Consistency Matters

The "Jazz" design succeeded because it was recognizable from a mile away. Whether you are leaning into 90s nostalgia or building a futuristic brand, the quality of the print is what determines your "premium" status.

🏆Conclusion: Your Design is Your Legacy

The "Jazz" pattern proved that a simple paper cup can become a cultural icon. Your packaging is the most frequent touchpoint your customer has with your brand. Don't settle for generic when you can create a legacy.

Ready to create the next iconic design? Contact Zidan Packaging for custom samples and expert design consultation.