fashionstyleinfo I’m sure many of you have heard the term “Y2K” but aren’t exactly sure what it means in the fashion world. Today, I’m going to share everything you need to know about Y2K fashion and why it’s a trend you should pay attention to.
Every few years, our fashion trends get a “blast from the past” and some of our favorite pieces from decades ago come back in style in stores, streetwear and pop-ups!
The current Y2K fashion trend is just that – a recreation of clothing and aesthetic trends from the late 90’s to 2000.
Read on, college girls who want to stay stylish and explore this fresh fashion aesthetic. Here’s my guide on how to understand and wear Y2K.
Where did the Y2K fashion trend come from?
It’s often assumed that because of the name “Y2K,” Y2K fashion refers to a decade of trends from 2000 to 2010. While this is partially true, there is much more to the term Y2K than the literal meaning of the word.
The Y2K aesthetic emerged in the final years of the 1990s, when people both dreaded and gleefully anticipated the impending rise of technology. For many, the year 2000 signaled the beginning of a whole new era, a time of prosperity, and for some even the end of the world.
As a result of this attitude, the culture of the late 1990s was shaped by luxury consumerism, hoarding of dead designer goods, and chasing future trends through clothing.
Clothing and streetwear of this era was characterized by lots of beading, designer logos, and slim cut shirts and dresses that reflected the idea of “streamlined” technology.
Why is Y2K fashion back in fashion?
The cyclical nature of fashion trends means that we always see the inspiration from past decades reappearing in our current trends.
From the 70’s to the 80’s and 90’s, celebrity streetwear and runway trends have been the inspiration for all of our looks today. Now, it’s time for late 90s and early 21st century fashion to make a comeback!
A deeper reason for our sudden addiction to the Y2K aesthetic may be because we are facing similar pressures to those faced by society in the 1990s. Surviving a pandemic means staying home, buying more stuff to survive, and relying on technology to help us get through these crazy times.
Is this the end of the world? Probably not. But with a pandemic touching every aspect of our lives, it’s hard not to get comfortably nostalgic and look at past trends.
Wearing designer clothes, beading and bright colors were a safety barrier from the world around us. Or, these colors and details can be a specific way to bring joy to a frustrating year.
Whatever the reason, Y2K style is back and we’re ready to embrace it.
How to wear Y2K?
A lot of Y2K fashion is inspired by the pop culture icons of our childhood.The Bratz dolls were a huge fashion inspiration for the Y2K look because they were always dressed in pink and purple.
Movies like Mean Girls, The One and Only, and Legally Blonde were also huge inspirations for the millennial look because they featured stylish female protagonists who loved to overdress and exercise.
Designer brands such as Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton and many others also set some of the most popular trends of the late 90s and early 2000s.
The classic “saddle bag” was a millennial staple and is now a staple of many designers’ 2020 collections.
Finally, an important element of Y2K fashion is nostalgia. Think of some of the classic outfits you had in your closet when you were 5 or 6 years old. Things like butterfly barrettes, pink gummy sandals and large handkerchiefs are all the rage right now.
Transforming old fashion pieces into new trends is a great way to save money and is very popular right now.
What are some of the main Y2K fashion items?
1. lace revealing tops
One of the pieces I’ve seen a lot of in millennial fashion is the fine cami. whether it’s the silky floor-length cami or the cotton cami we used to get from Justice, it’s a staple of this summer’s Y2K fashion trend.
2. High-waisted all-around pleated skirts
Pleated skirts and colorful skirts are another in-demand item. Bright pinks, purples and yellows are sure to make an appearance, as well as some low-waisted denim skirts or jeans.
As I mentioned before, accentuating your figure with fitted clothes is a staple of millennial fashion.
3. Long Sleeve Ribbed Knit Halter Top Cardigan
Buttoned cardigans, collared shirts and sweaters are a big part of this trend. Whether worn over a dress or with low-rise jeans, they are a cute and fun throwback to our childhood!
4. Multi-layer lock necklaces
Finally, accessories are the most important part of millennial fashion. Mini bags can be worn with any look, and thick chain jewelry in gold or silver is a must.
5. Double sided paisley bandana
Headbands are another part of the Y2K trend and are perfect for creating a carefree summer look! Use them with your outfit and when you have a bad hair day.
While many brands are now starting to carry some of the best Y2K trends, buying vintage is a great way to get the most authentic Y2K look.
Instead of buying replicas of our favorite things, why not buy the real thing?
Many sellers at Depop, eBay, and your local thrift store are selling things that may have once been discarded, but are now trending!
