HOW DID WE GET HERE?

In the thick of the pandemic, you could say that Gen Z ignited the early 2000s fashion trend last year. And part of that may be true thanks to social media. But I'd say apps like Depop and Etsy have helped the Y2K aesthetic go mainstream again. And that's because Gen Z's and Millennials alike have turned to vintage-inspired fashion as a form of escapism and comfort from the pandemic. Study's have shown that Millennials are typically risk-averse, and it makes sense that during a time of crisis we went to what was comfortable and what we knew best. And if you also tap the entrepreneurial bug that Gen Z is famously known for, you get a slew of retro Y2K looks selling all over platforms like Depop ad Etsy.

But it doesn't just stop there. TikTok has changed how we consume music. Have you ever perused through the app and hear all these crazy mash-ups? You're hearing songs reappear from signature pop culture moments. I mean... there have been mashups of Justin Timberlake, Promiscuous by Nelly Furtado... I even heard Lean With It, Rock With It a few times. TV shows like Sex and the City are having impacts too. Carrie Bradshaw made the Dior saddlebag famous for women. And Dua Lipa has brought it back in style.

And who the heck are we to forget about Britney Spears. The #freebritney movement has run rampant and doesn't seem to be slowing down anytime soon. And so are her Y2K styles. Like low-rise jeans, crop tops, bandanas, and more.

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WHAT IS Y2K FASHION TODAY, ANYWAYS?

It's definitely got a twist. I'd say even futuristic. Red carpet Y2K looks I've seen have sort of meshed together today's tech obsession and streetwear with a sprinkle of color and simplicity.

And it's all built on the basics from your closet. T-Shirts, baguette bags (shoulder bags), hoodies, and more. Brands like Versace have taken note and played into the fanfare creating unique Y2K fashion trend looks that scream Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian.

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Here are some of the few best Y2K looks from their SS20 show:

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