The Y2K movement has been trending for what feels like an age now, and yet, somehow the fashion world remains utterly captivated by the 2000s-inspired aesthetic. For those who missed it the first time around, Y2K is all about early-aughts style and all the accompanying vibes.
If stepping back in time fills you with intense dread rather than a warm glow of nostalgia, you might want to sit this one out. Pop princesses who defined the era – think Anastacia, Destiny's Child, and, of course, Britney Spears – led the way in denim corsets, tinted shades, ultra-low-waisted jeans, and pretty much anything diamanté. Not for the fainthearted – that's for sure.
What is Y2K?
© Photo: Getty ImagesY2K is an abbreviation for 'the year 2000’ more specifically the Y2K 'bug' – news to us, too. The phrase referred to the doom of expected computer errors related to the date change from 1999 to 2000, following the turn of the century - which never actually manifested.
Style-wise, the term is synonymous with the Gen Z-adored aesthetic which harks back to the early aughts. Thanks to the TikTok girlies among us, the Y2K hashtag has been viewed more than 10.1 billion times – yep, billion with a 'b'. If nothing else, the resurgence has proved that fashion is 100 per cent cyclical, and if you lived through it the first time around, count yourself lucky that you probably still own some authentic Y2K pieces that are now considered 'vintage'.
© Getty
© Getty
© GettyBasically, if in doubt, use Paris Hilton (and ingenué Kim Kardashian for that matter) as your main reference point. The OG It-girl is essentially the physical embodiment of the 2000s aesthetic.
Fendi Baguettes, velour tracksuits and butterfly tops – what Paris doesn't know about Y2K, frankly, isn't worth knowing.
What are the need-to-know brands for nailing the Y2K aesthetic?
These days, the list of Y2K devotees is growing ever-longer, but the likes of Dua Lipa, Bella Hadid and Lily-Rose Depp deserve a special mention.
Clad in contemporary brands such as Miaou, Poster Girl, The Attico, and KNWLS, as well as vintage archival pieces by Jean Paul Gaultier, Dior, Fendi, Miu Miu and Versace, these girls seriously know their stuff – and we can't get enough.
Our Y2K picks to add to cart right now:
Asymmetric Printed Crêpe Minidress
Acne Studios
Featuring a romantic graphic print, a handkerchief hemline and a romantic cowl-neck, Acne Studios' whimsical dress is cool-girl gem for those curating their forever Y2K wardrobes.
Faux Fur Lined Afghan Coat
Superdry
The Afghan coat gained global popularity in the 1960s and 70s, but remerged during the Noughties. Superdry's playful version in a vanilla cream hue is set to inject some fun frivolity into your nostalgic wardrobe.
Printed Silk-Blend Satin Top
Blumarine
Blumarine is the ultimate Y2K brand, spanning fur-trimmed textures to sequin midi skirts and ethereal silhouettes. This pink halterneck is a 2000s dream, complete with a silky finish and blooming florals.
De-Hush Mini Skirt
Diesel
Searching for Y2K denim staples? Diesel is your friend. The brand is brimming with low-rise denim essentials to wear year-round. This Y2K mini very much included.
Shae Mule
Tony Bianco
Suede? Check. Bows? Check. Kitten heel? Check. Tony Bianco's adorable mules are 00s style personified. Pair yours with some flares and channel your best Britney self.
Coach
Ashton Bag
Bold colours, glossy finishes, and playful designs - Y2K bags are the party girls of any wardrobe. This baguette by Coach oozes youthful nostalgia, thanks to its cherry red hue and buckle detailing.
Orchid Long Sleeve T-Shirt
Desigual
Graphic tops are a must have for those wanting to emulate the kitsch style of the era. Desigual's orchid print long-sleeve is firmly on our wishlist - perfect for pairng with low-slung jeans and kitten heels. Regina George eat your heart out.
Flared Denim Trousers Jeans
Ed Hardy
Ed Hardy rose to fame in the 2000s with bold, tattoo-inspired designs by Don Ed Hardy. Known for rhinestones, skulls, and tigers, the brand became a staple of Y2K celebrity fashion. Add to bag.
Madison Hoodie
Juicy Couture
You didn't think we'd forget about Juicy did you? Juicy Couture defined 2000s fashion with its iconic velour tracksuits, rhinestone logos, and playful luxury. Beloved by celebrities like Paris Hilton, the brand symbolised casual glamour and the era's It-girl aesthetic.
Logo-Appliquéd Webbing Wedge Flip Flops
Coperni
Get your Groovy chick on with Coperni's wedged flip flops. A true Y2K staple, these nostalgic kickers are ideal for summers spent abroad and East London outings. Wear yours with a slinky floral midi for maximum impact.
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