What is Y2K style? The fashion of the 2000s that you will continue to see on the street

The fashion world is constantly evolving. But look carefully, and you’ll see that it’s more cyclical than anything. Despite the appearance of new fashions that we haven’t seen before, many of the trends bounce back from the past.

That is why we are currently seeing garments again that were fashionable in 2000, or as it is now known, the Y2K style (an abbreviation of the year 2000). This aesthetic trend has been revived in recent years, becoming a benchmark for new generations seeking inspiration from these iconic times. If you’re interested in following the eye-catching fashion of the 2000s, be sure to hold on to our advice for achieving the Y2K style and incorporating it into your current wardrobe with a fresh and modern interpretation.

The return of the Y2K style

Y2K encompasses the trends that emerged at the end of the 1990s and the beginning of the 2000s. It was a time of experimentation and stylistic freedom heralded by the rise of pop culture. Singers like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera played a crucial role in popularizing the Y2K style that is notable today for a mix of futuristic and nostalgic elements. We’re seeing a resurgence of the style on social media with influencers paying homage to this period.

The key elements of Y2K for women

The fashion of the 2000s has returned with a modern twist that maintains the spirit of the time through fitted garments, shiny materials like satin, pastels and metallic tones, as well as eye-catching accessories. Below, we look at the must-have items for your wardrobe if you want to nail the Y2K style.

Iconic garments

LOW RISE PANTS: They’re the classics of the Y2K style! You might need to get used to this fashion all over again, as we’ve been wearing the exact opposite until quite recently: high-rise pants. Forget about skinny pants and go for low rise jeans with a wide leg.

CROP TOPS: These are short-length t-shirts that show off part of your abdomen. You can choose from the very shortest ones that stop just below your chest to those that barely cover your navel. There are long ones for all tastes. As far as styles are concerned, there is an enormous variety, from fitted t-shirts to strappy tops and asymmetrical designs. If you’ve chosen pants in a neutral tone, bring your look to life with a shiny crop top, or perhaps one with sequin details.

TRACKSUITS: Tracksuits were another essential item in the fashion of the 2000s. The most popular ones were velvet with a low rise. The cut was very fitted and often, the brand was shown on the back. They were decorated with shiny items and combined with luxury accessories to give them a touch of chic.

Y2K style accessories

Never forget the accessories to complete any look, especially if you want to follow the Y2K style, a period known for its eye-catching accessories. Let’s take a look at some essentials that have been reinterpreted.

HANDBAGS: A Y2K style that has come back in a big way is the mini handbag. These are small, made from shiny materials and are often hand-held or have short straps. If you’re looking for a Y2K style handbag for a formal occasion, go for the baguette type. These flat, rectangular handbags are ideal for evenings if chosen in patent leather, velvet or satin.

SUNGLASSES: In the 2000s sunglasses were worn all the time. It didn’t matter if the sun wasn’t shining, or whether you were inside or out. They could even be worn as a decorative element on top of the head. The important thing was that they had colored lenses, and that’s how they’ve made a comeback today.

BELTS: Belts were an essential decorative item in the 2000s. One style that has made a powerful comeback is the chain belt worn on the hips. You can pair them with most garments to create a Y2K style outfit, such as low-rise pants, miniskirts and even with the tracksuit.

Combinations for adapting the Y2K style to the present day

Although Y2K style fashion has made a comeback, we recommend that you find a balanced combination that can be adapted to the present day. You want to achieve a sense of comfort with your look without feeling like you’re in fancy dress. Combine Y2K style pieces with modern elements. For example, you could combine a crop top with some high-rise jeans, if you don’t feel comfortable with low rise. Complete the look with a chain belt, an oversized jacket and sunglasses with colored lenses. What do you think?

The trick is to continue to be faithful to your personal taste and style, adding Y2K accessories without the need to change your whole wardrobe. In the TOUS online store you will find a wide range of accessories that are perfect for achieving that look you are aiming for. Explore the sunglasses section, lose yourself in the handbag section and choose the most Y2K earrings in the TOUS jewelry section. Transform your look with a unique outfit inspired by the 2000s!