21 Fashion Trends From the Early 2000s That Are Making a Comeback

The reign of the skinny jean is officially on pause. This season is all about embracing the wide-leg silhouette, a nostalgic nod to the baggy denim that dominated the early 2000s. “The ever-popular, wide-leg silhouette is back in a major way because it offers that effortless, lived-in comfort we're all craving,” Stitch Fix stylist Kara Wagner says. “Contrast the volume with a fitted top to strike a balance that channels vintage nostalgia while feeling undeniably modern.”

Retro sneakers have made a recent comeback, bringing effortless cool to any outfit. “Early aughts-inspired sneakers are having a massive comeback,” says Gillian McHattie, Stitch Fix stylist. “These pair with everything from dresses to tailored trousers, creating the perfect high-low mix that defines modern streetwear and the ‘Modern Varsity’ trend taking over fall fashion.”

Capture the Jennifer Lopez Y2K vibe by slipping on a pair of chic, color-tinted sunglasses. “Tinted lenses in bold hues are trending because they're an easy way to inject personality and playfulness into any outfit without committing to a major wardrobe overhaul,” explains Stitch Fix stylist Elizabeth Robitaille. “It’s always a good idea to add eye-catching shades to spice up your capsule wardrobe.”

What’s better than a stylish sandal? One that adds a few inches of height without sacrificing comfort. McHattie says, “Chunky platforms are having their moment again because they deliver both height and comfort.” Opt for a casual, beachy pair by day, or elevate wide-leg jeans or a slinky slip skirt with a dressier platform for a night out.

While kitten heels have never really gone out of style, the Y2K version came in a rainbow of bold shades. Bring back this chic low heel by opting for a mule, slingback, or pump style shoe. “There is heightened popularity for these low heels,” Wagner says. “They are (and were!) both chic and wearable, easily paired with tailored trousers for the office or a slip dress for a night out.”

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Capri pants are a perfect transitional style, and today’s version has a looser silhouette. The modern capri pant is incredibly versatile, looking just as chic with casual beach slides as it does with a pair of dressy slingbacks. “Cropped trousers are making a sophisticated comeback, reimagined in sleek, modern cuts that feel fresh and polished rather than dated,” Robitaille explains. “I love these for transitional weather styling as an option to not dive fully into winter wear in the early fall.”

Blame it on the latest cowboy craze, but bandana prints are coming back around. From shirts to dresses, the unmistakable print adds a bit of the “Wild West” to any outfit. McHattie says, “Bandana-inspired patterns capture the sweet spot between vintage nostalgia and modern freshness, while cowgirl vibes continue to soar as requests for western-inspired styles are popular this year.”

It's time to bring back the "arm party," the Y2K trend of artfully stacking bracelets. For an instant statement, anchor your stack with a bold, chunky charm bracelet, an easy way to punch up any look. “Personal, meaningful jewelry is back as people seek pieces that tell their story, Wagner says. “Layer multiple charm bracelets or mix with sleek modern pieces for a high-low jewelry moment.”

This smooth, velvety fabric was seen in the early 2000s on items like jackets, totes, and boots. This time around, look for it in a rainbow of unexpected colors beyond the classic tan, from rich jewel tones to soft pastels. Robitaille says, “While the material used to be reserved for plush winter boots, patchwork bags, halter tops, and fringe, the versatile texture is getting a modern makeover. We’re seeing a surge of interest in suede, and the updated form comes in the shape of slouchy bags and statement boots.”

Embraced by hip-hop stars like LL Cool J and Missy Elliot in the 2000s, the bucket hat is a stylish accessory that was initially worn by fishermen but has become a versatile accessory suitable for both indoor and outdoor wear. “The practical style is back because it offers that effortless street style edge while actually being functional, " McHattie tells Good Housekeeping. “We’re seeing the continued popularity of these every festival season, or just an added twist to an everyday look.”

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In the 2000s, skateboarding culture went mainstream, and its edgy, pop-punk fashion, like studded bracelets and belts, came right along with it. Robitaille says, “Metal studs used to be saved for the skaters and punk rockers of the 2000s, but now they are back on bags, and even polished flats, adding a gilded edge to everyday looks.”

Initially worn by the military and outdoor enthusiasts, cargo pants became an everyday fashion item in the early 2000s, often paired with a tube top and chunky skate shoes. Wagner explains, “Utilitarian details are having their moment as people prioritize functional fashion, and cargo pants deliver that blend of practicality and edge when styled with sleek basics or unexpected feminine pieces.”

Butterfly clips were a fashionable way to pull back your hair, and were essential for creating the iconic twisted, spiky updos of the era. Today's version is a bit more understated. “Butterfly clips and other whimsical creature accessories are back because they tap into our collective desire for joy and playfulness in fashion,” McHattie says. “I love scattering a few throughout loose waves for an effortlessly romantic and playful finish.”

Ultra low-rise denim was the go-to fashion of the early 2000s, but today’s version is a bit more forgiving. “While the ultra-low rise of the early 2000s might still feel intimidating, the updated mid-low rise is trending because it offers a more universally wearable take on the trend,” McHattie says. “Try pairing a pair with cropped cardigans for a true throwback vibe.”

The early 2000s put its own spin on boho fashion with peasant blouses and fringed jackets. “Flowing, romantic peasant tops are trending again as part of what we call the "Rustic Romance" aesthetic, blending soft, bohemian silhouettes with subtle structure,” Robitaille says. "I love that they’re back because they’re effortlessly versatile and wearable for long workdays or laid-back weekend plans.”

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Whether it was a frayed mini or a bohemian-style maxi, denim skirts were absolutely everywhere in the early aughts. “The denim skirt in mini or more updated longer lengths is back because they work across seasons,” Wagner says. “Style them with boots for fall or sneakers for a more casual, transitional look.”

It's true: leopard print works as a neutral and pairs with almost anything. If you're not ready to commit to a full garment, the easiest way to wear it is in small doses. “Leopard print is officially back as fashion's most debated neutral," Robitaille says. “I’d recommend starting small with accessories like heels or a belt, or go wild with a statement jacket.”

Often worn as an off-the-shoulder top, the crocheted poncho is a 2000s clothing item that has been updated in premium fabrics. “The modern version swings a bit less boho and a little more luxe, now trending in fabrics like cashmere or wool,” McHattie says. “They can instantly add texture and movement styled with fitted basics underneath, and are great for mastering transitional times when temperatures are unpredictable.”

While a leather belt will always be a classic, a ribbon or fabric belt adds a bit of playfulness to any outfit. “Delicate ribbon ties and fabric belts are trending as we embrace more feminine, romantic details that add waist definition and a touch of whimsy to flowy silhouettes of your favorite denim,” Robitaille says.

The shrug cardigan is the ultimate layering piece of the Y2K revival, and this cropped sweater is perfect for adding a touch of coverage.“These cropped, barely there cardigans are back because they add just the right amount of coverage and texture without overwhelming delicate pieces like slip dresses or camisoles,” Wagner says.

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