Y2K Fashion has taken over and GenZ is embracing it with their unique added twist. As promised, The Messy Muse returns to furnish you with a curated selection of essential Y2K wardrobe pieces that currently enjoy widespread popularity for casualwear fashion.
- Low-rise Jeans
Low-rise jeans absolutely dominated the fashion landscape of the 2000s, with celebrities often opting for midriff-baring bottoms. Now, two decades later, this controversial trend has resurfaced, as labels such as Stella McCartney, Versace, and Diesel showcased low-rise designs on the runway for the spring season. Paired with a crop top, corset, or babytee, these denim pants featuring lower hip-sitting waistlines epitomize the quintessence of Y2K fashion.
Low-rise jeans
- Ballet Flats
The rise of “balletcore” has naturally sparked a resurgence in one of the beloved footwear trends of the millennium. Labels such as Sandy Liang and Miu Miu have reintroduced ballet flats in their recent collections, with mary jane variations igniting a fervent craze for off-duty dancer aesthetics. The ballet flat’s ability to effortlessly imbue a sense of chic refinement, coupled with the practicality of flat footwear, harmonizes seamlessly with the “carefree” spirit characterizing Y2K fashion.
Miu Miu Ballet Flats
- Cargo Pants
Cargo pants emerged as a definitive style statement during the 2000s as they exude a distinct androgynous allure with their baggy and practical design, rendering them an ideal choice for everyday wear. Surprisingly, the trend resurfaced on major runways during the spring 2023 season, with renowned fashion houses like LaQuan Smith, Isabel Marant, and Givenchy leading the revival of the cargo craze.
Hailey Bieber wearing Cargo pants
- Denim Skirts
Throughout the 2000s, denim skirts in various lengths, from mini to midi to maxi, enjoyed widespread popularity, particularly among celebrities. Fast forward to 2023, and the timeless allure of indigo denim made a striking appearance on the runways of esteemed fashion houses such as Miu Miu, Blumarine, and Diesel. Other retailers such as Zara and Bershka also quickly hopped on trend with their miniskirts that are selling like hotcakes.
Mini denim skirts from Diesel
- Uggs
Uggs surged in popularity during the 2000s, as celebrities effortlessly paired the cozy shearling footwear with a wide range of ensembles, from velour tracksuits to bedazzled microminis. While calf-length Ugg boots dominated the decade, shorter styles have taken center stage in recent times.
Bella Hadid wearing Uggs
- High Waist All-Around Pleated A-Line Skirt
In addition to the enduring appeal of miniskirts, the prominence of high-waisted pleated skirts is undeniable. These skirts, characterized by their folded fabric creating a textured and dynamic appearance, are versatile pieces that could be dressed up or down, making them suitable for both casual and more formal settings. One notable aspect of Y2K pleated skirts was their association with preppy and schoolgirl-inspired fashion. These skirts were often styled with button-down shirts, cardigans, and loafers, reflecting a youthful and collegiate aesthetic.
Cher from “Clueless”, 1995
- Platform Heels
Platform heels were a hallmark of Y2K style, offering both elevation and attitude to ensembles. Characterized by their substantial sole, typically adorned with a chunky heel, these shoes exuded confidence and made a bold fashion statement. Commonly paired with miniskirts, low-rise jeans, or leggings, platform heels accentuated the wearer’s legs and contributed to a sense of allure and sexiness.
Versace Platform Heels