Get To Know Y2K Fashion, The 2000s Clothing Trend That Is Shining Again

Illustration (Cottonbro/Pexels)

JAKARTA - Have you ever wished you could go back in time? Well, futuristic fashion and tech lovers from the late 90's and early 2000's are back for a second round. This distinctive style is a blend of pop culture and the technological advances of the millennial era. From the Y2K bug in 1999 to the release of Bratz dolls in 2001, there are many nostalgic influences present today.

If you missed the return of metallic wear and velor tracksuits, you're in luck, because Y2K fashion is back.

What is Y2K fashion?

Launching The Trend Spotter, Tuesday, April 26, Y2K fashion is very distinctive and inspired by the mid 90's and early 2000's when the internet became more popular or the time when the term dot-com was in vogue. This style is usually quite futuristic with a few retro touches such as clothes with shiny materials, chunky shoes, pleated skirts, baguette bags, and colorful sunglasses.

With the big peak in technological advancements, audiences are optimistic and cautious about the future, and how it can change lifestyles. These changes also come in the worlds of music, movies, decorations, and, of course, fashion. Some of the biggest influences of this era were also carried by famous figures such as Carrie Bradshaw, the Bratz Dolls, and films such as The Matrix and Mean Girls.

Why is Y2K fashion back?

It's no surprise when we see the biggest fashion trends of the last decade circle back with a fresh look. The early 2000s were very experimental, and combined with Gen Z and Millennials who also welcomed the nostalgia of the era, making Y2K fashion back in the midst of modern life. Some of the key pieces of the Y2K aesthetic that we usually see are wide-leg jeans, shiny jackets, baby t-shirts, and velor tracksuits.

Y2K fashion traits

Baby T-shirt

The baby t-shirts that were trending in the early 2000s are now back. This T-shirt has a crop model above the navel and fits better on the chest. These t-shirts usually have a quirky quote, funny character or pattern on the front, or an image of an iconic Y2K brand like Fiorucci or Juicy Couture. This shirt goes well with baggy jeans, pleated skirts, or denim cutoffs.

Baguette Bags

The flagship bag in the 2000s era is finally back with a bigger size than before. The iconic baguette is a symbol of Y2K fashion, thanks to Carrie Bradshaw's surge in popularity in Sex and the City. This small bag sits under your arm and is the perfect accessory to accompany your everyday life.

For a nostalgic feel, you can opt for a vintage Louis Vuitton Pochette or Fendi Baguette. Pastel colors are a great choice for 90s and 2000s fashion lovers. If you prefer a futuristic touch, choose a bag with metallic colors and shiny materials that go well with almost any outfit.

See-through clothes

The late 90's and early 2000's were an experimental era for fashion. One of the biggest trends of this era is see-through clothing that can be worn in a variety of ways. For example a baby t-shirt made of mesh or lace with a cute bralette underneath. For a more casual atmosphere, wear a transparent button-down shirt, with a crop top and trousers. Find patterns and colors you like and play with your imagination.