I’m a Millennial and Here Are 12 Modern Ways to Wear Y2K Trends for the Gen-Z Era

Metallics

“Shine and metallics were a hallmark of Y2K fashion, channeling the futuristic, party ready vibe that defined the era,” says Singla. “Back then, we saw holographic mini-skirts, silver pants, and rhinestone studded tops.” This version of shine is subtler. “Try pairing metallic sneakers or ballet flats with relaxed denim or a simple dress. You can also try layering on a shiny satin bomber for a sporty edge or a metallic crossbody or clutch,” says Singla.

In this case, a Paco Rabanne mini bag looks like an upscale disco ball, and a wide belt buckle and silver ring echo the statement piece. “Small touches, like a chrome belt or silver statement jewelry, add just enough of that Y2K shine without veering into costume territory,” Singla adds.

Low-Rise Jeans

“Often worn with tiny crop tops or halter necks, low rise jeans were one of the most defining trends of the Y2K era,” says Singla. Before you write them off as uncomfortable and unflattering, though, know that the modern low rise is a lot more well-made. “Try a relaxed, slouchy jean with a vest style top for a contemporary vibe. For a more nostalgic approach, pair them with a simple ribbed crop top,” she says. This all-white outfit also incorporates another Y2K trend — a shirt tied casually around the waist.

Singla adds, “Since low-rise jeans naturally draw attention to the hips, keeping the rest of your outfit streamlined helps it feel fresh and sophisticated rather than overly retro.”

Chokers

“The choker is an iconic late ’90s fixture,” says Sarah Beran, stylist and co-founder of Worldclass Clothing. “But now, it’s softer, sleeker, and more versatile,” adds Ramy Brook Sharp, founder and creative director of Ramy Brook, noting, “We’re especially into lariat styles that can be worn as chokers, doubled, or draped long — giving you endless styling options with one piece.”

If you’re going for a more youthful vibe, “reach for a visible logo cami or bold colors for a more playful vibe,” says Beran. If you’re going more upscale, “embrace a silk or high quality knit cami, keep the choker simple, and add a pair of kitten heel thongs to elevate the look,” she says. Here, the outfit is simple but includes other ’90s accessories, including colorful sunglasses and a literal Beanie Baby as a keychain.

Baby Tees

The short, cropped top was a big deal in the ’90s-’00s. “Back then, baby tees, cropped and tight with cheeky graphics, were a casual staple,” notes Singla. To keep things feeling solidly in the 21st century, make sure your tee is “updated in elevated fabrics like mesh and eyelet. With details like puff sleeves, empire waists, and ruching, these tops can seamlessly be dressed up or down,” says Stitch Fix stylist Alexa Glew.

This option is semi-sheer; the Converse continue the Y2K throwback vibe, while fishnets add a dash of surprise. But there are tons of ways to wear it. “Style your babydoll top with cargo pants or tailored denim shorts to balance out the volume and femininity with texture and edge,” says Glew. Singla adds, “A fitted baby tee in a solid neutral or subtle logo pairs well with high waisted trousers or a slip skirt for a clean, updated take.” If the baby tee isn’t doing it for you, go for another ’90s staple: the halter-neck top.

Flatforms

If you’re anything like me, you desperately miss your chunky platforms. “Flatforms were a playful and practical footwear trend of the Y2K era, offering height without the discomfort of a heel: from chunky foam flip-flops to strappy sandals and even sneakers with thick, uniform soles,” says Singla. Thankfully, they’re making a comeback, with Stitch Fix reporting a 65 percent increase in sales. “This shoe adds just the right amount of height without sacrificing comfort — plus it screams Lizzie McGuire, a quintessential Y2K style icon,” notes Glew.

This look goes full tonal in all-green, with the substantial shoe offering contrast to the softer, frillier dress. “Try pairing minimalist leather flatform sandals with a flowy midi dress or wide leg trousers. Platform sneakers also work well with baggy jeans and a fitted tank for a sporty, nostalgic vibe,” says Singla.

Mesh

Mesh is another material that’s seeing a major resurgence, but these days it’s skewing less “beachwear” and leaning more “layering item.” “Try a sheer mesh tee over a sleek cami, then pair it with wide-leg trousers or a relaxed denim silhouette,” says Glew. In this outfit, there’s a lot of Y2K happening, from the bubble hem to the graphic tee and the black sheer mesh top to finish off the look.

For a younger aesthetic, “Go for a mesh top with a subtle pattern — maybe even a butterfly motif if you really want to scream Y2K! Add metallic gold framed sunglasses and don’t forget your nostalgic lipgloss,” explains Beran. For a more grown-up vibe, she adds, “Swap in a mid-length sheer dress layered over a bandeau or body-hugging tank. Finish with mid-rise trousers and strappy flats.”

Minimalism

If you happened to like ’90s minimalism, from Kate Moss’ slip dresses to Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s headbands and heels, that trend is particularly popular today, says Singla. “Sleek basics like fitted tanks, ribbed knits, simple slip dresses, and monochromatic outfits were staples that balanced out the more maximalist trends of the time.” Going with a simple black outfit with a Y2K-inspired pendant is a very chic way to nod to the nostalgia without overdoing it.

Crochet

The “boho” aesthetic was big in the ’90s and ’00s, but it’s still got resonance. If you liked it the first time around, pull out your vintage crochet pieces or invest in a few new ones. “Crochet was a fun, boho touch in Y2K fashion, seen in colorful halter tops, beach cover-ups, and bags. Today, it’s back in a more refined way,” notes Singla.

“To wear it now, try a crochet tank over a bralette or cami with high-rise denim or a flowy maxi skirt,” explains Glew. Adds Singla, “Try a chic crochet dress with minimal sandals and jewelry,” like this pretty ombre purple option with lavender Chanel bag. “Or for just a hint of texture, a woven bag works perfectly. Stick to modern silhouettes and muted tones to keep the look fresh,” she adds.

Baggy Jeans

Baggy jeans were a nice carryover from the ’90s and a more comfortable alternative to tight, low jeans. “Often styled with crop tops, graphic tees, or tiny tanks, they created that contrast of oversized and fitted that became a signature of the time,” Singla notes.

For a modern iteration, “opt for a printed cargo or elevated fabric: I recommend parachute nylon,” says Beran. “Choose a bright bag or colorful, sporty sunglasses for that early 2000s pop!” Or, if you’re feeling like a more age-appropriate style, “Try a ribbed baby tee with neutral oversized, low rise cargo pants. Add cool sneakers and balance the playfulness with minimalist accessories, like gold hoops.” You can also go very simple with a “baby tee and clean white sneakers,” says Singla.

Cherries

If there was a single print to define the very early ’00s, it’s this one. “Cherry print is an iconic Y2K trend making a comeback, with Stitch Fix seeing client requests for ‘cherries’ up 50 percent since the same time last year,” says Glew. There are many ways to bring in the pattern, including subtle jewelry or a tiny print on a spaghetti-strap top, like this one.

If you want to go bigger, Glew says, “A cherry-printed satin slip dress is the perfect way to look playful and chic. For a summer night or vacation, pair the dress with a sleek strappy sandal or chunky slides. For a twist, embrace the full throwback look by adding a red handbag or red ballet flats.”

Layered, Eclectic Jewelry

“Beaded jewelry was such a Y2K staple, but back then it was colorful plastic beads, stretchy chokers, and anything with a DIY feel,” says jewelry designer Maya Brenner. “Today it’s about reimagining it through a more elevated lens. Pair natural stones with a baby tee and vintage denim and it feels effortless, not overdone.” This layered burgundy Chanel choker is versatile with a ton of ways to wear it, so it’s a great investment piece.

If the pretty multicolored look isn’t your thing, opt instead for some classic pieces “like gold layered necklaces — maybe with a custom initial or diamond drop,” adds Brenner. In this outfit, classic layered bracelets have the same effect. She adds that a round-neck cami top, like this Chanel dress, works to hammer home the ’90s-’00s reference without being overbearing.

The Mini

The mini hemline is back, from schoolgirl pleats to the bubble hem and bandage wrap dress. It depends on how daring you want to be — this look is skin-baring with a matching bra top and loads of necklaces — but whatever your vibe, it’s a great base. “Throw on a micro cardi for added layers and texture. Play with jelly platform sandals and layered necklaces to tie it all together,” says Beran. Or “choose a cropped ringer tee with a sporty pleated mini, tube socks, and colorful sneakers.” As ever, the key is to incorporate trend pieces into your overall aesthetic. Go forth and explore that perfect mashup of vintage and modern!