Do you wish you could travel back in time? The futuristic, tech-loving fashion of the late 1990s and early 2000s are back for a second round. This unique style blends pop culture with tech advances from the new millennium. There are many nostalgic influences today, from the Y2K virus in 1999 to Bratz dolls’ launch in 2001. You’re in luck if you long for metallic clothing, bubblegum pink and velour tracksuits. Here’s how to wear the Y2K look in 2021.

What is the Y2K Aesthetic and how does it work?

The Y2K aesthetic has a distinctive look and is influenced by the early 2000s, when the internet was more popular during the dotcom boom. This style is often futuristic and retro with shiny materials, chunky shoes, pleated skirts or baguette bags. The dramatic rise in technology’s advancement made viewers both hopeful and nervous about the future and how it might transform their lives. These changes were evident in music, movies, decor and fashion. Bratz Dolls and films such as The Matrix, Mean Girls, and Carrie Bradshaw are some of the earliest influences.

Why is the Y2K aesthetic back?

It is no surprise that the most popular fashion trends of the past decade return with a new take. It was a time of great experimentation in the early 2000s, and it was only a matter that the style returned with a new look, thanks to Gen Z and Millennials who embraced a nostalgic feeling for the era. The Y2K aesthetic features some of the most iconic pieces, such as wide-leg jeans and shiny jackets.

Y2K Outfits

• Baby Tees

These tiny t-shirts were one of the most popular trends in the 2000s. These shirts typically have a higher cut across the chest and are usually cropped above the stomach button. Tops can be printed with Y2K logos like Juicy Couture or Fiorucci, as well as cute designs or characters on the front. These tops can be worn with loose-fitting jeans or pleated skirts, or cut-off denim.

• Shiny Materials

The idea of futuristic fashion became a big trend with the tech boom in 2000. Shiny metallics in silver and pearlescent colors are a great way of making your outfit pop. A metallic puffer jacket is a great choice, as well as a pair of pants. You can pair them with bright colors such as pink, blue, or purple. You can also wear accessories and a crop top made of the luminous fabric if you prefer to keep it simple.

• Baguette Bags

It’s back and bigger than ever! Because of its popularity surge by Carrie Bradshaw, Sex and the City, the iconic baguette bag has become a symbol of the Y2K aesthetic. These bags can be worn under your arm as a perfect accessory for your everyday look. You can choose a vintage Louis Vuitton Pochette, or Fendi Baguette for a nostalgic touch. Pastel shades are great for those who love the era. Shoulder bags with metallic colors and shiny fabrics are great for futuristic styling.

• Pleated colourful skirts

Bratz Dolls’ style, with its colorful skirts and pleated pants, was fully adopted in the early 2000s. There are many styles to choose from. This uniform-looking piece looks great paired with a crop top, oversized sweater or baby tee. These pieces look great paired with boots or chunky sneakers.

• Tie Front Tops

Tie front tops are a popular trend from 2000s that is making a comeback. They have a new update in 2021 with pastel tones, ribbed fabrics and a fresh look. They look great paired with a T-shirt or bralette and still look fresh. You can style them with high-waisted jeans or mini skirts, or patterned wide leg trousers. This is a style you can wear over-and-over and will never go out-of-fashion.

• Velour Tracksuits

Velour tracksuits are the most popular fashion choice of the 2000s. With a little refashioning, this iconic trend is back twenty years later. This ensemble is well-known thanks to brands like Juicy Couture and Baby Phat as well as celebrities such JLo and Paris Hilton. You can now style these with matching crop tops and bralettes as well as denim jackets and chunky sandals. For the true Y2K look, choose bright colors like green, blue and pink.

• Double Denim

Double denim can be polarizing, but when done right, it can look fierce. The Y2K style is all about creating a silhouette. An oversized jacket and matching shorts are all possible. This look can be worn with a consistent color fabric to ensure it blends seamlessly into an outfit. You can finish the look with bright sunglasses, a baguette or chunky heels.

• Bandanas

The bandana was a popular accessory trend in the 2000s. This versatile headscarf can transform your look. It can be worn in many different ways. You can fold it into a triangle or wrap it around your head. For the Y2K look, wear skinny sunglasses and let your hair down below. You can also twist the fabric and use it as a hairband. You can match the pattern or colors with your ensemble to create a polished look.

• Translucent Clothing

Fashion was at its most experimental in the late 90s and early 2000s. Translucent clothing was a big trend of that era. It can be worn in many different ways. Wear a mesh or lacy baby tee and a cute bralette underneath. Or, wear a transparent slip dress for a date or night out with your friends. A transparent button-down shirt with crop top and trousers is a great option for casual occasions. You can experiment with colors and patterns that you like and let your imagination take over.

• Butterfly Hair Clips

These accessories have been a favourite accessory since the ’90s. These butterfly clips make a great addition to your Y2K look and can be worn in many ways. The clips can be used to lengthen your hair or pin it behind your ears with the help of the delicate barrette. For a nostalgic trip, you can recreate the most popular trends of the era by wearing your hair half-up and half-down. These cute clips can be worn in many different ways. Have fun and experiment, that’s the essence of the aesthetic.