If you’ve never heard of the term ‘Y2k fashion’,  this article will be your ultimate guide to learning about it. Y2k fashion is an abbreviation for ‘Year 2000’ and is otherwise referred to as 90s streetwear. It is a nostalgic aesthetic inspired by the 1990-2000s fashion trends including butterfly clips, Juicy Couture tracksuits, Louis Vuitton saddlebags and even the outfits you’ve seen in our favourite films ‘Mean Girls’, ‘Legally Blonde’ or ‘Clueless’. But it’s not just movies. Even our favorite Bratz dolls and pop icons from our childhood were major inspirations for the Y2k style.

The year 2000 was the start of an entirely new era; technology was on the rise and while some people anticipated the new beginning, others were anxious. This  is exactly what makes the term “Y2k fashion” much deeper than just clothing. With the excitement and apprehension brimming, the late 1990s saw a lot of luxurious shopping and enthusiasm for futuristic clothing trends which is why this era featured bling and luxury logos that intended to reflect the idea of ‘streamlined’ technology. 

So here’s how you can dress Y2k. Let’s start with accessories: the Dior saddlebag has become an emblem for the Y2k fashion trend. Although, any saddlebag is the perfect compliment since it just barely fits your phone, wallet and other essentials. Onto tiny sunglasses: these small fashion statements are worn low on the nose bridge and are definitely for the style, not for shielding the sun from your eyes. They come in round, triangular or sometimes even in flames shapes, with or without frames, plain black or colored. The only rule is to have them as tiny as possible. 

Moving onto clothing: mesh tops are straight out of the early 2000s. They’re transparent and daringly worn with either a camisole or a bra. They can be worn with anything which is what makes them so versatile and special. Finally, moving on to leather skirts, shiny pants or shiny shoes. They’re all perfect symbols for the Y2k style. We haven’t forgotten the men! Y2k for men generally involves leather jackets, a statement dress shirt, and chunky shoes. NSYNC are significant trendsetters for men’s Y2k style.

Fashion is cyclical which means we occasionally witness ‘blasts from the past’ in fashion choices. But it goes deeper than that. During this pandemic, we are under similar forces that the 1990s society faced. Staying home, stocking up on necessary goods and becoming technology-reliant is what is getting us through these times. The pandemic is skinning different aspects of our lives which makes us revisit past trends to seek comforting nostalgia. Perhaps we consider the bling and bright colors as our shield from the daunting reality or the specific colors and details bring us joy during this distressing time. Maybe we just enjoy Y2k fashion in general but either way it’s one style that is here to stay!