Is Early 2000s Fashion Coming Back?
Fashion experts will tell you were creatures of habit.
We like to cling to the past, particularly when it comes to our wardrobe.
via Instagram@paris2000s
Deep down, weknowbaggy denim jeans will be cool again so why part with them?
Wait two decades and youll find that social media will start agreeing with you.
Mix in the scary power of algorithms and opportune marketers, and soon the world will too.
It channels childhood nostalgia while leaving enough room to explore and modify it to your personal style.
What Is Y2K Fashion?
Y2K fashion calls back to the biggest trends of the late 90s and early 2000s.
Given the boldness of the style, its easy to view it as a fashion disaster.
By rejecting the minimalism of the past decade, Y2K-inspired outfits walk a narrow line between eccentric and chic.
(Which is the better option?
Well leave that up to you.)
Thehottest looks were seeing on social medialean towards futuristic fashion with a slightly retro edge.
Fortunately, this allows for plenty of experimentation.
The goal of Y2K fashion is to express yourself as vividly as possible.
For a more modern take, look towards your peers on social media for inspiration.
Compared to decades past, Y2K fashion is more body-positive and there are always exceptions to the bedazzling rule.
It was a time of major transition.
Flip phones and gaming consoles were just touching the cusp of new technologies.
Meanwhile, the internet as we know it began to take shape.
Politically and socially, everything was changingand pop culture reflected it.
Destinys Child, Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and *NYSNC single-handedly shaped a generation.
Todays Y2K fashion re-envisions many of their hallmark looks.
Why the Y2K Aesthetic Is Back
Fashion is cyclical, meaning few trends are truly original.
Remember the 90s aesthetic that was everywhere a couple of years ago?
How about 80s haircuts?
Even emo has made a return.
If we take our rose-colored glasses off for a second, well see that trends are just good business.
Y2K fashion is a natural step forward following years of vintage ensembles and thrift shopping.
Juicy Couturemay not be for everyone, but it was always going to re-enter the closets of younger generations.
Brands simply caught on and here we arefalling in love with Y2K fashion all over again.
Although gaudy, the trends greatest appeal is itsnostalgia value.
It represents a simpler time in history that recent events have us all longing for.
Today, theres even more room to play around and curate a look thats all your own.
Sustainable shoppers can find authentic clothing at thrift stores and sites like Etsy.
There are also plenty of ethical brands and small businesses if youd like something new.
While browsing, be sure to choose bright colors and shiny fabrics.
For the boldest amongst us, silver or pearlescent shades are a great option.
Meanwhile, you’ve got the option to never go wrong with patterned wide-leg trousers or skinny sunglasses.
Choose from a wide selection of solid colors and retro prints to find your perfect fit.
Baguette Bags
Ah, the iconic baguette bag.
We haveSex and the Citys Carrie Bradshaw to thank for these itty bitty shoulder bags.
Although they dont beat out other bags in terms ofstorage space, baguette bags are fairly versatile accessories.
Integrate it into your everyday wear for a splash of cuteness.
If you want to embody an authentic 2000s vibe, try and snag a vintage Louis Vuitton pochette.
Wear it with a pink top (preferably bedazzled) and flared jeans for maximum peppiness.
Velour Tracksuits
Y2K fashion brought back one of the biggest staples of the 2000s: velour tracksuits.
Brands like Juicy Couture were instrumental in popularizing this look back in the day.
Now the modern generation has gone and reclaimed it to fit into trendier aesthetics.
Wide-leg Denim Jeans
These classic jeans died whenskinny jeanshit the racks.
(It doesnt hurt that theyre way more comfortable too.)
Fortunately, Y2K fashion is a tad more conservative.
If youve got a hankering for double denim, then be sure to keep the color scheme consistent.
Select acropped jacketwith wide-leg or high-waisted jeans.
Round off the look with skinny sunglasses, dark boots, and a baguette bag.
Love it or hate it, metallics are cool again and theyre flashier than ever.
When shopping for metallics, choose bright shades and keep the accessories to a minimum.
A metallic puffer jacket seems to be the go-to these days.
Y2K fashion revisits the fad in a variety of shades and colors.
Alternatively, you might take inspiration from 2004sMean Girls.
Throw together a pleated skirt, chunky sneakers, and a tote bag for an unapologetically pink look.
Unlike denim or puffer jackets, ribbed cardigans will blend into your wardrobe.
Theyre the perfect addition to round off your simpler looks while staying reasonably tasteful.
A cropped cardigan is the preferred look, though any length is doable.
Translucent Clothing
Y2K fashion wouldnt be Y2K fashion if it didnt revive some kooky numbers.
Retro yet futuristic, translucent clothing is surprisingly versatile.
If you like color, choose a mesh top with a fun pattern.
Military camos were particularly popular in the 2000s, as were abstracts and paisley.
Another option would be to layer a transparent slip dress over a plain white dress.
Denim minis were particularly popular, though Y2K fashion has re-introduced alternative fabrics like leather and mesh.
Depending on your preference, a mini skirt can make or break your outfit.
Do the reverse if you like denim skirts more.
Tie Front Tops
Like ribbed cardigans, tie-front tops are back in vogue thanks to Y2K fashion.
Since a tie-front top will probably be your statement piece, we recommend pairing it with plain high-waisted jeans.
Bandanas
Bandanas were one of the trendiest accessories of the 2000s.
Y2K fashion diversifies the look to includedifferent stylesand patterns other than the classic paisley.
To really nail the look, match your bandana to the rest of your outfit.
Wear it traditionally and wrap it over your head like your favorite 2000s pop singer.
Wear your hair loose and use the clips to pin your hair back.
Alternatively, incorporate butterfly clips into your up-dos.
Kitsch Accessories
Speaking of fun, consider stepping up your accessory game with kitsch items.
Were talking friendship bracelets, charm necklaces, sparkly barrettes, zig-zig headbandsyou know, the works!
Y2Ks take on kitsch is all about tapping into your childhood self.
Dont Be 2000-and-Late
Y2K fashion is the latest and greatest fashion trend.
When putting together your outfit, dont be afraid to experiment with colors and patterns.
The 2000s may have been gaudy at times, but it prioritized self-expression.
And remember: always,alwaysaccessorize.
Are you rocking the Y2K style?
What else would you add to our guide?
Leave us a comment below!
