A Simple Guide to Mastering the Y2K Fashion Aesthetic

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The Y2K aesthetic started seeing a resurgence in 2020 — a time when we all needed a little optimism in the form of a playful, quirky outfit. It started with sparkly pink bags, fuzzy bucket hats, and butterfly clips popping up on our Instagram feeds. Now, two years in, we've learned how to style these trends like pros all over again.

If you're curious about Y2K fashion and want to know where the aesthetic comes from, think about the most iconic films, TV series, and music videos of the early '00s. Films like "Mean Girls," shows like "The Simple Life," and music videos like "Bills, Bills, Bills" by Destiny's Child and "Lucky" by Britney Spears introduced the essentials of Y2K fashion: crop tops, cardigans, camisoles, low-rise pants, and tennis skirts. Other hallmarks of the era included logomania, scrunchies, bandanas, and butterfly prints — style stars like Dua Lipa, Olivia Rodrigo, Rihanna, Justine Skye, and Lourdes Leon have all worked these references into their wardrobes. It's worth noting that it was in the 2000s that fast fashion really began taking off. With the advent of e-commerce sites and online shopping at the turn of the millennium, people started to have way too much stuff. So, today's Y2K comeback isn't only about celebrating nostalgia — it's also about using sites like Depop, eBay, The RealReal, and Vestiaire Collective to repurpose the mounds of clothes from the early aughts into more sustainable outfits. Ahead, we break down how to wear the Y2K fashion trends you're seeing everywhere — color palettes, apparel, accessories, and more — giving you plenty of shopping inspiration along the way.

Additional reporting by Kara Kia

Y2K Aesthetic: Color Palette
Sharon López

Y2K Aesthetic: Color Palette

The Y2K palette is all about color — particularly pastel shades, pinks, purples, greens, and blues. There's a special place for animal prints, butterfly prints, and logomania pieces.

Pieces Curve Pastel Stripe Cardigan
asos.com

Pieces Curve Pastel Stripe Cardigan

Wear this Pieces Curve Pastel Stripe Cardigan ($30, originally $49) with classic denim to let the soft knit texture and mood-boosting pastel tones shine.

Staud Cargo Sweater
staud.clothing

Staud Cargo Sweater

Probably one of the most famous cardigans on the market, the Staud Cargo Sweater ($145) comes in a classic rib knit and an instantly recognizable colorblock pattern. The poppy and rosebud shades speak to the early aughts and pair well with white jeans or a similarly colored bag.

Y2K Aesthetic: Tops
Sharon López

Y2K Aesthetic: Tops

Camisoles, crop tops, halter tops, and fitted cardigans are key to mastering Y2K outfits.

Kim Shui Pink Bustier Lace-Up Top
kimshui.net

Kim Shui Pink Bustier Lace-Up Top

You can preorder this Kim Shui Pink Bustier Lace-Up Top ($325), which encompasses practically every Y2K trend in a nutshell, from the pastel-pink florals to the alluring silk bodice.

Boys Lie BB Pink Tear Drop Tee
boyslieofficial.com

Boys Lie BB Pink Tear Drop Tee

This Boys Lie BB Pink Tear Drop Tee ($20, originally $40) comes with all the necessary '00s details, from the front twist to the keyhole cutout. It works just as well with sweats or lounge shorts as it does with denim and heels.

UNIF Melody Top
unifclothing.com

UNIF Melody Top

The lace on this UNIF Melody Top ($63, originally $78) adds just a touch of softness to your look. Why not collect it in the other colorways (black and butterscotch) to round out your 2000s-inspired wardrobe?

Y2K Aesthetic: Bottoms
Sharon López

Y2K Aesthetic: Bottoms

Y2K bottoms include miniskirts, tennis skirts, low-rise jeans, and loose-fitted trousers styled with mesh crop tops (think Aaliyah in the "Are You That Somebody" music video).

I.AM.GIA Raphie Skirt
iamgia.com

I.AM.GIA Raphie Skirt

The I.AM.GIA Raphie Skirt ($75) comes in a sweet baby-pink shade (so 2000s) that will pair perfectly with a corset top or camisole. Don't forget the baguette shoulder bag for an ensemble straight out of "Mean Girls."

Cider Grow Girl Wide Leg Jeans
shopcider.com

Cider Grow Girl Wide Leg Jeans

These Cider Grow Girl Wide Leg Jeans ($38) have the perfect side slit for showing off your shoes. Whether you're sporting chunky sneakers or strappy heels, utilize this smal but significant detail to really play up your 2000s moment.

Y2K Aesthetic: Hair Accessories
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Y2K Aesthetic: Hair Accessories

Y2K fashion is all about a nostalgic hair accessory. Try bandanas, bucket hats, scrunchies, and butterfly clips to achieve the look.

Urban Outfitters Funky Printed Square
urbanoutfitters.com

Urban Outfitters Funky Printed Square

Whether you tie this Urban Outfitters Funky Printed Square ($10, originally $19) around your head or on the strap of your bag, the psychedelic brushstroke pattern (very 2001) will catch the eye of stylish passersby.

Lack of Color Island Bucket Zag Stripe Hat
lackofcolor.com

Lack of Color Island Bucket Zag Stripe Hat

Summer's calling, and it's time to add this Lack of Color Island Bucket Zag Stripe Hat ($79) to your rotation. The colors paint the palette of the early aughts, while the crochet details are a nod to the '70s.

Frankies Bikinis Daisy Dream Scrunchie
frankiesbikinis.com

Frankies Bikinis Daisy Dream Scrunchie

Scrunchies add texture to every Y2K-inspired look — even beachwear. This Frankies Bikinis Daisy Dream Scrunchie ($20) can be matched with a wide range of resort-wear staples that are available in the exact same prints, giving you a head-to-toe coordinating look.

Y2K Aesthetic: Jewelry
Sharon López

Y2K Aesthetic: Jewelry

Gradient sunglasses, hoop earrings, and chunky layered jewelry are some of the most popular accessories for channeling the Y2K aesthetic.

Lottie Smiley Pearl Bracelet
shoplottie.com

Lottie Smiley Pearl Bracelet

Search for pieces like this Lottie Smiley Pearl Bracelet ($75) for layering purposes. You can easily coordinate it with your pearl chokers and other charm-adorned pieces.

Dollybaby Kiwi Ring
dollybabynewyork.com

Dollybaby Kiwi Ring

This Dollybaby Kiwi Ring ($65) is the brand's bestseller, and each one is made to order and totally unique. The elaborate shape and colorful rhinestones always stand out, specially when you've just had a fresh mani.

Cider Square Frame Fashion Glasses
shopcider.com

Cider Square Frame Fashion Glasses

Every detail counts — including the pink-tinted lenses and acrylic rim on these Cider Square Frame Fashion Glasses ($15). Wear them with your hair clipped back to allow full focus on this statement accessory.

Y2K Aesthetic: Shoes
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Y2K Aesthetic: Shoes

Favorite Y2K footwear shapes are slinky, strappy sandals; chunky vintage trainers; and midthigh boots.

Zara Athletic Sneakers
zara.com

Zara Athletic Sneakers

These Zara Athletic Sneakers ($90) are perfectly reflective of the 2000s. More sculptural than a typical '90s platform sneaker, try wearing these with cargo pants, a plain tank top, and a colorful bucket hat for a casual yet cool ensemble.

Abercrombie & Fitch Strappy Heel Sandals
abercrombie.com

Abercrombie & Fitch Strappy Heel Sandals

Searching for the perfect summer sandal? Consider these Abercrombie & Fitch Strappy Heel Sandals ($80), which are ideal for wearing with slip dresses and cardigans. They have fuzzy sleeve details for an additional '00s touch.

Coperni Stretch Denim Thigh High Boots
us.coperniparis.com

Coperni Stretch Denim Thigh High Boots

Go with these Coperni Stretch Denim Thigh High Boots ($660) when you need your footwear to do the talking. Impossibly chic, they will work with any miniskirt or minidress in your wardrobe. Add an oversized floppy hat (à la J Lo in 2002) and layer on metallic bangles for a date-night-ready ensemble.

Y2K Aesthetic: Bags
Getty | Edward Berthelot

Y2K Aesthetic: Bags

Handbag enthusiasts can indulge in the Y2K love of teeny-tiny minibags, including some '90s baguette styles.

Praying Sticker Bag
prayingg.com

Praying Sticker Bag

Indulge in the details with this Praying Sticker Bag ($90), which includes rhinestones and a glossy nylon finish. Wear it with just about anything to instantly channel the 2000s.

Susan Alexandra Mini Mariposa Bag
susanalexandra.com

Susan Alexandra Mini Mariposa Bag

This Susan Alexandra Mini Mariposa Bag ($265) is available in strawberry pink and lime green. It also comes complete with beaded butterflies that speak directly to the decade.

Y2K Aesthetic: Details
Sharon López

Y2K Aesthetic: Details

Mastering the details takes a Y2K look from gimmicky to glam. Reach for items that feature fluffy trim, diamanté and rhinestones, monograms, and butterflies. When it doubt, go for brands and logos that were everywhere during the 2000s, such as Hello Kitty, Playboy, Von Dutch, and Juicy Couture. Last but not least, a blinged-out flip phone will add the perfect finish touch to your nostalgic outfit.

Butterfly Hair Clips
etsy.com

Butterfly Hair Clips

Snag these Butterfly Hair Clips ($13, originally $16) in a pack of 32 and use them to pin your hair back, or clip them onto your ponytail for a more whimsical look.

Rainbow-Beaded Holographic iPhone Case
etsy.com

Rainbow-Beaded Holographic iPhone Case

This Beaded Holographic iPhone Case ($20 and up) is a two-in-one accessory — the colorful chain doubles as a bracelet when you're wearing it. Versatility is the best, isn't it?

Lisa Says Gah Glitter Alligator Claw
lisasaysgah.com

Lisa Says Gah Glitter Alligator Claw

Complete your casual white tee and denim outfit with this Lisa Says Gah Glitter Alligator Claw ($15, originally $25). The bright-pink glitter finish practically screams 2000s.

Y2K Aesthetic: Beauty
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Y2K Aesthetic: Beauty

A Y2K outfit isn't complete without the proper glam. Try the previously mentioned color palette (powdery pinks, purples, greens, blues) on your eyelids, lips, and nails. French manicures are another popular beauty trend from the era, along with face-framing money pieces, braids, half-up ponytails, temporary tattoos, and super-glossy lips.

Sephora Collection Liquid Eyeshadow
sephora.com

Sephora Collection Liquid Eyeshadow

Y2K makeup wasn't afraid to be daring, that's for sure. To channel that boldness, try this Sephora Collection Liquid Eyeshadow ($10) in a striking orchid shade that's mixed with blue glitter.

Lip Smacker Strawberry Liquid Lip Gloss
walmart.com

Lip Smacker Strawberry Liquid Lip Gloss

Amp up the shine with an old-school Lip Smacker Strawberry Liquid Lip Gloss ($7). Doesn't this bring back memories of that fruity flavor associated with everyone's favorite Y2K-era beauty brand?

Y2K Aesthetic: Vintage
Sharon López

Y2K Aesthetic: Vintage

Before buying a new garment, sift through resale sites like Depop, eBay, The RealReal, and Vestiaire Collective for designer pieces that hail from the 2000s. They're the real thing and usually better quality than what you'll find brand new in most fast-fashion retailers.

Vintage Gucci Cherry Blossom Dress
resee.com

Vintage Gucci Cherry Blossom Dress

Impress in a vintage minidress, such as this Gucci Cherry Blossom Dress ($2,147), which hails from Tom Ford's 2003 collection for the Milan-based fashion house.

Takashi Murakami x Louis Vuitton Monogram Multicolor Pochette
whatgoesaroundnyc.com

Takashi Murakami x Louis Vuitton Monogram Multicolor Pochette

This Takashi Murakami x Louis Vuitton Monogram Multicolor Pochette ($1,985) is from the limited-edition collaboration between the iconic artist and the French fashion house. It's in great condition and calls for little more than your favorite pair of jeans, a white tank top, and rhinestone-encrusted sunglasses.