Old trends are known for resurfacing and influencing fashion. However, something that’s not as typical is a whole decade of stylistic choices popping back up and directing clothing for an entire generation.
The 2000s, or “Y2K,” aesthetic slowly started creeping back into mainstream media around 2021. Despite so many of these 2000s looks being irresistibly cute and stylish, I have a few personal favorites.
Jaw Dropping Jeans
Would a 2000s inspired look be complete without the perfect pair of jeans? Low-rise has made an incredible comeback into mainstream fashion whether the pants are baggy or boot cut. Even in the summertime, ultra low-rise denim shorts and skirts have made a tremendous resurgence. This style is a great look on anyone but best for those with a shorter torso. Another JEANius trend is bedazzled accents. Sequined pockets on jeans or even just a little rhinestone design on the hip has become so trendy among the masses. The best part about this trend? How easy it is to thrift!
Matchy Matchy!
Out of all the resurfaced Y2K looks, matching sweat sets have to be the most “main character” fashion choice of today. Not only are these outfits cute and easy to put together, but they are, above all else, comfortable. When walking through the hallways of THS you are almost certainly going to see someone rocking an Aeropostale branded sweat suit. Another popular brand of matching sets such as these is Juicy Couture. Even though these cozy sets are more popular now than ever, I still have not seen a classic velvet sweat suit or a cheetah print set. Maybe sometime soon cheetah print and the velvet texture will make its way to the front lines of fashion!
Lace Craze
Tank tops, camis, and any other undershirt will always be popular because of its practical function; however, what if this practical item of clothing was insanely cute? The early 2000s lace cami had to have been one of the best inventions since sliced bread. Not only do these pieces serve a very real purpose but they can also be a crucial accessory to an outfit. The combination of the lace at the chest and the unnecessary length of this garment make it too perfect not to wear. This lacey tank layered under a henley (another Y2K staple) paired with low waisted jeans is just phenomenal. In the year 2026, Gen Z does not layer multiple lace camis over one another as Millennials in the year 2006, but we sure do utilize them just as well, if not better, than our fashionista forefathers.
The Casual Heel
I love love love all of the current comeback Y2K trends, but there is one trend I’ve yet to see that would be super fun to bring back; the casual heel. A heel with bootcut jeans is a very diva-ish take. A little kitten heel with a maxi skirt is also such a sweet look. It feels as though no one wears heels anymore unless it is for a formal occasion, but a casual heel really can elevate any look.
Wannarexia
However, not all fads are fun or fashionable. An extremely harmful trend, that is unfortunately making a comeback, is the ever damaging skinny look. In the 2000s, being extremely skinny or anorexic was a global fad. The “waif” look took over fashion shows and red carpets. This had an extremely poisonous effect on women and girls across the world, and diet culture in Hollywood was spreading like wild fire. This is so unfortunate because as a people, we have come so far in the way of body diversity. It’s so empowering to see a body that looks like yours represented in the media. Now, more and more incredibly thin models, singers, and actresses are being given more of a spotlight just because of their bodies. This trend is sickening and is so widely normalized; please do not fall for this idiotic craze. There is no more beautiful body than the body YOU are happy with. Do not change your body for the sake of fashion, EVER.
Whether these trends are “in” for good or just returning for a quick fashion reprise, it’s good to keep in mind that trends do come and go. The early 2000s fashion isn’t for everyone, but I’m starting to see 2010s trends slowly seep into everyday wear even now. UGG boots, side parts, skinny jeans… maybe the infamous infinity scarf is next. But remember: no matter what’s in fashion or what the big celebrities are wearing, it’s important to stay true to who you are!
