Y2K fashion is back in a big way, and trends from the late 90s to the mid 2000s are on the streets again. Witness how girls are channeling early 2000s JLo and Britney Spears with their tracksuits and cropped tops. Pleated skirts, chunky shoes, and shiny fabrics that can be seen in films like “Clueless,” “Legally Blonde,” and “Mean Girls” can also be found in retail stores everywhere. Even celebrities who were the face of the early aughts, such as Paris Hilton, are making a comeback. Now that Y2K fashion is hot again, it’s important to know how to wear some of the best trends from this era to look and feel comfortable and avoid looking like a throwback disaster. Here’s how to wear the Y2K fashion trend in a modern way.
Create a balanced look
Remember how Destiny’s Child used to wear a lot of tight jeans and cropped tight tops? Indeed, the early 2000s was a time for form-fitting clothes, but to modernize the look, you need to create a balanced look for a fresher aesthetic. This means mixing tight fitting pieces with baggy or relaxed fit clothing. Consider wearing baggy or wide leg jeans or trousers, then pair it with a tight-fitting baby tee or a cropped top with interesting details. You may also want to wear a tie-front top with a tailored pair of flared jeans for a look that’s a little more polished. Finish the look with chunky sneakers or sandals.
Don't be afraid of color
Teen queen and Grammy nominee Olivia Rodrigo has mastered the art of Y2K dressing and has often been spotted wearing vintage-print trousers paired with a cropped shirt, as well as fun dresses in bright colors. Take a style cue from the “Good 4 U” singer and embrace bold colors, pastels, and prints. Try wearing a plaid mini skirt and pair it with a plain shirt and chunky boots. For a fun look, slip on flared trousers with a colorful print, then pair it with a graphic t-shirt. Don’t forget to coordinate jewelry with your look by adding some kitschy pieces like beaded necklaces and chunky rings. To fully embrace the Y2K aesthetic, stash your everyday essentials in a small bag, such as a mini backpack or a baguette bag, which is a tiny bag with a strap that nestles under your arm.
Try not to go overboard
You may be tempted to go all out by styling your hair in space buns or wearing frosted lipstick to complement your outfit. You can certainly incorporate these styling and makeup tricks into your everyday look, but try not to do everything all at once to avoid looking as if you’re cosplaying as Paris or Nicole Richie from “The Simple Life.” For a more elevated aesthetic, go for a minimal makeup look and effortless hairstyles, such as a ponytail. You may even wear a bucket hat if you want to skip styling your hair for the day.
Y2K fashion is all the rage again, and it captures the energy of a simpler, happier time. Try these tips to wear Y2K fashion in an up-to-date way and have fun channeling your inner Regina George or your favorite Spice Girl!