Fashion trends inspired by ancient times have returned many times in recent years, proving that the 2000s cannot be shaken. As Millennials and Gen Z satisfy their nostalgia cravings, styles not seen in decades have emerged on social media and, in many cases, the runway.
Last year, Google’s latest data proved that the 2000s craze hasn’t died down yet; in fact, searches for Y2K-related trends reached record levels in 2023.
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Here are 15 trends of the 2000s that are back in fashion.
ballet flats
Naturally, the emergence of Balletcore has revived one of the most beloved footwear trends of the Millennium. Brands like Sandy Liang and Miu Miu have introduced ballet shoes in recent seasons, and Mary Jane styles have spurred the off-duty dancer craze.
puka shell necklaces
Puka shell necklaces have made a triumphant comeback thanks to the popularity of the “island girl” aesthetic, which has taken off on TikTok and Instagram.
low waisted
Low-waisted trousers and skirts were a big hit in the 2000s; Celebrities preferred belly-baring bottoms. The controversial trend has been revived two decades later, with brands like Stella McCartney, Versace and Diesel sending out low-rise designs for the spring 2023 season.
uggs
Uggs took the 2000s by storm, with stars pairing the cozy fur slippers with everything from velvet tracksuits to dazzling microminis. Knee-high Ugg boots were the most popular style of the last decade, but shorter styles are in fashion these days. Ugg minis and the brand’s Tazz slippers are currently bestsellers.
Y2K Fashion Trends Back in Style: Platform Flip-Flops, Trucker Hats, and More [PHOTOS]
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leg warmers
Balletcore fashion has also created a resurgence in leg warmers. Knitted socks, which first came into fashion in the 80s, returned briefly in the 2000s and are back again in the 2020s.
trucker hats
Trucker hats were a favorite among celebrities in the early 2000s; Von Dutch and Ed Hardy had success with mesh-backed hats featuring patches and unusual graphics.
sign necklaces
Thanks in part to Carrie Bradshaw from HBO’s “Sex and the City,” nameplate necklaces have had a major moment in the new Millennium. They were among the top trending Y2K accessories on Google last year.
bell bottoms
Bell bottoms first came into fashion in the 1970s but were brought back in the 2000s. Today, brands like Gucci and Veronica Beard have embraced retro-inspired fashion.
cargo pants
Cargo pants became a style indispensable in the 2000s. Loose trousers with large pockets were also a major fashion show trend in the spring 2023 season, with LaQuan Smith, Isabel Marant and Givenchy reviving the cargo craze.
denim skirts
Denim skirts of all lengths were popular in the 2000s; stars preferred mini, midi and maxi styles. In 2023, the ever-popular indigo fabric hit the catwalks of Bottega Veneta, Blumarine and Givenchy, while Courrèges and Alberta Ferretti channeled the 2000s by debuting microminis on the catwalk.
Platform flip flops
Flip-flops took to new heights in the ’90s, and platform sandals became a must-have item in the early 2000s. Today, brands such as Coperni, Gia Borghini and Loewe are launching their own versions of platform flip-flops, while flat versions of casual beach sandals filled the catwalks of Miu Miu and Chanel for the spring 2024 season.
frameless frames
Rimless sunglasses were popular in the early years among star singers such as Jennifer Lopez, Britney Spears and Eve. These chic shades have now made a comeback, thanks to brands like Prada, Dolce & Gabbana and Gentle Monster, who have recently launched similar styles.
butterflies
Mariah Carey’s iconic Emanuel Ungaro butterfly top has been producing knockoffs for decades. Today, the colorful insect’s fashion legacy lives on, with Versace and Blumarine releasing new collections featuring butterfly motifs.
Skirts and dresses over trousers
In the new millennium, it was especially fashionable to wear skirts or dresses over trousers. Although the controversial trend was eventually labeled a fashion faux pas, it’s now back in style, with designers including Peter Do, Chopova Lowena and Connor Ives pushing layered bottoms.
capris
As short hemlines became fashionable in the 2000s, so did capris. Short trousers, consisting of various fabrics and patterns, will become stylish once again in 2024 with Jacquemus, Sandy Liang and 3.1 Phillip Lim, setting the current trend.
Launch Gallery: Y2K Fashion Trends Returning to Style: Platform Flip-Flops, Trucker Hats, and More [PHOTOS]
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