Amid the ever-changing rules and fads of culture, one thing remains consistent: Fashion. Sure, style is eternal, but trends come and go like a cycle, with our present wardrobes bearing influences from the past. The so-called 20-year-rule applies especially now with the fads of year 2000, or Y2K fashion, making their big comeback. So, if you want to join the fun without looking too archaic, here are five Y2k trends that have been updated for the year 2020.
Kendall Jenner
Photo sourced from Getty Images
Baby tees
Cropped tops in the early 2000s were all about the details: Shirts and camis were embellished with rhinestones, glitter, trimmings, and all sorts of graphics. In recent years, baby tees have made their return in many forms, from wardrobe basics to statement pieces. In true Y2K fashion, these tops are often found in bright colors like pink, purple, and green. Baby tees are easily paired with bottoms and are a cute look for both casual outings or lounging at home.
Kaia Gerber
Photo sourced from Vogue UK
Vests and blazers
In the first half of the century, vests and blazers were the best cover-ups. Characters of popular shows like F.R.I.EN.D.S and Sex and the City sported blazers for an office-chic look, while celebrities like Avril Lavigne and Fergie threw on vests to finish off their outfits off-screen. Although it’s easy to cringe at this trend, vests have become more versatile this 2020. They spice up casual looks with their color, as seen in this spring ready to wear collection, and they can even be worn alone for an extra edge like Kaia Gerber. Brands like H&M have joined the suit trend, too, and who doesn’t love a good monochromatic blazer-and-pants set in a striking hue?
Bella Hadid
Photo sourced from Splash
Low-rise denim
Low-waisted jeans and skirts were all the rage in the early 2000s, responsible for many iconic Y2K celebrity looks. 20 years later, low-hanging baggy jeans and skirts are slowly becoming staple pieces for those seeking the model-off-duty look. Though it may seem intimidating after the age of high-waisted bottoms, low-rise denim can be effortlessly flattering to the physique when styled well. This may be one of the more questionable Y2K trends, but it might just be worth giving a try.
Dua Lipa
Photo sourced from Vogue
Colorful hair accessories
Accessorizing is a key element of Y2K fashion, and colorful hair pieces are back to show it. Bold and brightly-colored clips, barrettes, and headbands are good additions to any outfit! These accessories work as the finishing touch of an outfit and provide a pop of color to tie a look together. Whether you’re staying in or out running errands, a good set of butterfly clips or a thick headband might help you look and feel more presentable.
Seo Yea Ji
Photo sourced from Kpopmap
Tiny bags
The start of the millennium saw the rise of tiny handbags, but by the 2010s, they had become laughably large. Now, in 2020, our favorite accessories are miniscule once again. Saddle bags and mini purses once popularized by the likes of Hilary Duff are back again as statement pieces. Who needs a huge bag, anyway, when we have smartphones and credit cards? Tiny bags instantly complement a look without taking away the attention from you. Just look at Seo Yea Ji as Ko Mun Yeong in the popular Kdrama It’s Okay To Not Be Okay.
Y2K is back in the styling choices of influencers all over. As many young people hop on to the trend of early 2000s fashion, Y2K exemplifies how nostalgic elements with modern touches can still be in style. So next time you’re looking for something to elevate your style, these Y2K pieces might be your best bet for a trendy look.