The Y2K Fashion Aesthetic Hath Arrived...Again, But Let's Make It More Modern, Hmm?
What’s old is new again, folks—and yes, that includes all of those Y2K fashion trends you’ve likely tucked away in the back of your brain, hoping to forget they ever existed. Sorry! Late ‘90s fashion and early 2000s looks hath arrived...again, with a vengeance. And, honestly it's great news for any Paris Hilton and Destiny’s Child-era Beyoncé fans wishing to relive the days of yore.
When you think of the Y2K fashion aesthetic, there are probably a few specific things that come to mind. And yes, the must-have early aughts trends—like baguette bags and baby tees—are back, but they’re also definitely new and improved. Aka not exaaaactly how you remember them from 2003. Basically, these throwback pieces are getting a second chance, not to mention an entirely new generation of fashionistas—who were too young to know the joys of finally securing a velour tracksuit—to brainwash influence.
So, yeah, just go ahead and give in already. Party like it's 2002, and just accept the fact that fashion is cyclical and this was bound to happen. And most importantly, scroll on through for some major inspo for some of the biggest trends of the early aughts...and where to shop them now.
Baguette Bags
Ah, the baguette bag. If you didn’t own one of these babies in the year 2005, you weren’t living. The trend was eventually replaced by larger purses and totes, and then most recently with the micro bag—but this classic French bread purse won't be ignored. A bonus? They have just the right amount of room for all your essentials. Just ask Kendall Jenner.
Denim on Denim
Look, Y2K celebs had the right idea when they tried to make denim on denim chic, but an absolutely, shall we say, unique? execution. Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake's all-denim-everything moment will always be iconic. Could it have worked a little better with a few tweaks? Perhaps! Hindsight is 2020 and all that. Would honestly love to see the duo re-styled like Bella Hadid, here—a true street-style queen.
Ruffled Dresses
Peep photos from any early 2000s red carpet event, and you’re likely to find some sort of ruffly, frilly dress in the mix. This was a favorite look for celebrities of all shapes and sizes—and one of the few fads from the era that was supportive enough for folks who had boobs. (It’s true!) Into it? Well, you’re in luck, because this style is back in action, baby.
Bustier Vibes
Though we’ve seen a big push for wearing lingerie outside of the house in recent years, 2000s bbs were all over that trend. Y2K fashion was all about a good bustier look. Of course, it's gotten a major upgrade since Kim Kardashian sported a bow-belted corset in the early aughts—and the styles today are a bit more sleek, and, oh yeah, sheer. Heyyyy, Zendaya.
Baby Tees
These tiny, shrunken tees were such a hit back in the day—even Beyonce wore them! So I guess it's actually not all that surprising that stars like Dua Lipa are bringing them back, better than ever.
Velour Tracksuits
Of course, one of the most quintessential Y2K outfits was the velour tracksuit. One from Juicy Couture or Baby Phat was *the* getup to wear in the early 2000s. And thanks to the general resurgence of the decade, and possibly a re-upped interest by some of the trend's original fans (hi, Kim and Paris), they’re available once again. Cozy vibes await you.
There's no doubt that Y2K fashion was really something—and by something, I truly do mean cute. No, really. So here's to hoping that you throw on those butterfly clips, a Canadian tuxedo, and find an old episode of The Simple Life to watch. It’s go-time, baby.
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