The early 2000s weren’t just defined by Britney Spears’s abs, Dawson’s Creek, Abercrombie & Fitch logos, and the sounds of Blink-182, as important as those pop culture pillars were. They were defined by a distinctive set of trends that evolved from the grunge and minimalism of the ’90s. It was a sartorially colorful, expressive decade that wasn’t as reliant on past trends as the decade we’re in now. The trends of the early 2000s have the benefit of still being fresh in our minds, while producing major nostalgia factor; after all, every millennial wore them the first time around. And as the cycle of fashion goes, there are a plethora of trends already coming back—as evidenced by the S/S 16 runways and recent celeb looks that are clearly influenced by the decade (see Rihanna). While there are certainly popular styles from the decade that we hope won’t be back (ahem, flip-flops and pocketless jeans), there are a few that 2016 is already welcoming with open arms.
Keep scrolling to shop modern versions of early-2000s trends and to see which stylish celebrities have proven their recent resurgence.
These Cher Horowitz–inspired dress style is flirty and fun—perfect for the impending warmer months.
On Rihanna: Jeremy Scott dress.
Our pick:
While high-waisted jeans are still going strong, we’ve been seeing a trend of waistlines dropping inch by inch lately. Our advice? Choose slouchy styles over skinny for a cool borrowed-from-the-boys vibe.
On Behati Prinsloo: Westward Leaning Voyager 10 Sunglasses ($185); Hermès bag; Rag & Bone jeans; Adidas Originals Samba Sneakers ($70).
Our pick:
If Kendall Jenner’s recent outfits are any indication, short, sporty crop tops à la a 2000s-era pop princess are the latest version of the abbreviated shirt trend.
On Kendall Jenner: Glamorous cropped sweater; Sergio Rossi pumps.
Our pick:
Given the ubiquitous athleisure trend that’s currently reigning supreme, it comes as no surprise that sporty tracksuits have found a way back into trendsetting celebs’ wardrobes.
On Bella Hadid: Adidas Originals jacket and pants; Puma sneakers.
Our pick:
Kendall Jenner recently gifted BFFs Gigi Hadid and Cara Delevingne with matching nameplate necklaces. Carrie Bradshaw would be proud.
On Cara Delevingne: Lola James Mini Me Necklace in 14K Gold ($275); Chanel sneakers.
Our pick:
Alexa Chung recently declared her love for spaghetti straps, and the skinniest of straps have been popping up more and more in recent designer collections.
On Zoë Kravitz: Dior Couture top and pants; Sophia Webster shoes.
Our pick:
It’s hard to think of the 2000s without seeing visions of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake’s matching denim ensembles at the 2001 American Music Awards. The new Canadian tuxedo is (ahem) subtler but no less statement-making.
On Kate Hudson: Dsquared2 shirt; Michael Kors bag.
Our pick:
Selena Gomez’s red carpet appearance in a Louis Vuitton bubble skirt late last year could mean that others will follow suit.
On Selena Gomez: Louis Vuitton top and skirt.
Our pick:
Related: The Trends That Are Going to Be Big in 2016
Gigi Hadid recently stepped out in a cowl-neck sweater, the It sweater style of the 2000s. Enough said.
On Gigi Hadid: Ray-Ban Large Original Aviator Sunglasses ($160); Katie Ermilio Rabbit Open Front Pea Coat ($4370); OneTeaspoon Parisienne Nights Roll Neck Sweater ($116); Frame Denim Le Original Jeans ($239); Le Silla Nude Cage Ankle Boots ($543).
Our pick:
Which early-2000s trend(s) would you wear again? Tell us in the comments below!
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