Fashion has always been cyclical, however the current reemergence of noughties trends feels a little soon – especially since many of us still cringe at the wardrobes we collated the first time around. But follow our guide and you'll find a way to make it work for you
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It was recently revealed that eBay searches for Juicy Couture tracksuits rose by 200 per cent this year. Maybe it isn’t a huge surprise that they're in demand. Iconic 2000s celebrities such as Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez and Paris Hilton are back in the headlines, pop punk is making a return, and even flip phones can be found in stores again. Bella Hadid, one of the world’s most influential models of the moment, is a huge fan of the decade, sporting zigzag partings, butterfly clips, cargo pants and scarf tops galore.
On top of all this, the spring/summer 2022 runways were overrun by Y2K references –from micro mini skirts to sheer tie-tops and handkerchief hair scarves – it’s no wonder people want to wear something fun, nostalgic and glamorous.
Zendaya at the 2021 BET Awards. Photo: @zendaya
Beyoncé performing at the BET Awards in 2003. Photo: Getty
While the kitsch parts of the noughties are definitely having a moment, there are – thankfully – some sleek and covetable takes on the decade too. Zendaya recently paid homage to the purple dress that Beyoncé wore when she performed at the 2003 BET Awards, and Kate Moss stepped out in a pair of bootcut jeans during the spring/summer 2022 London Fashion Week.
Whether we like it or not, the noughties are here to stay for a while, but there’s no reason to panic, because there are ways to channel this divisive decade without inducing any future regret.
Bootcut jeans
Photo: Getty
The oracle of cool Kate Moss recently attended a London Fashion Week show in a pair of bootcut jeans and made them look effortless, modern, and not at all how we remember them. She styled them with a relaxed white shirt, a velvet blazer and brown, round-toed shoes.
If you’re not quite ready to go all the way yet, then look to Acne’s loose bootcut selection for a casual, subtle take on the style. Jeanerica's slimmer fit gives a nod to the 1970s, while Bite Studio's wider leg offer classic shapes.
It’s becoming clear that pretty much all of the major denim brands are on board with the bootcut revival now, so you should be able to find a pair made by your go-to label.
Bootleg jeans
Shoulder bags
Matilda Djerf with a Louis Vuitton bag tucked under her shoulder. Photo: @matildadjerf
And just like that, Sex and the City – the fashion authority of the noughties – is returning, and from the snaps of the cast filming around New York, it seems that Carrie is still sporting baguette bags, chunky belts over dresses, and heels… always heels.
The shoulder bag, in particular, is a simple and pretty much faultless way to introduce the decade into your everyday look. Fendi’s baguette and croissant styles are timeless and delicious, while Bottega Veneta and Stella McCartney both offer some interesting textures this season. There’s nothing to wonder about when it comes to cheery and sustainable brands Hvisk and Silfen – their reasonable prices mean that you can be as daring as Samantha...
Shoulder bag
Going-out tops
Pernille Teisbaek in a bedazzled top during Paris Fashion Week. Photo: @Pernilleteisbaek
Some of the noughties’ most memorable tops involved repurposed scarves, spaghetti straps and cute motifs. Milan Fashion Week saw plenty of crochet, halter necks, bralettes and butterflies too – particularly at brands like Blumarine – which suggests that the trend for sexy, statement tops is set to continue.
While labels like Hosbjerg have started to style their scarves as tops, brands like Anine Bing and Rotate Birger Christensen offer more modern takes on strapless and halter neck styles. We recommend pairing with jeans or cargo trousers and a blazer.
Going-out tops
Cowboy boots
Photo: Getty
Boho was huge in the noughties, and while it hasn’t fully returned in all of its tasselled and embroidered glory just yet, there is one key piece that has been consistently on trend for the last few seasons. Two decades ago, the cowboy boot was a festival favourite and was often worn over jeans or with floaty layers.
Today’s take on the style favours sleek, bold designs that pop when paired with clean lines and smart denim. Look to Isabel Marant for classic suede versions (with a hint of boho), Saint Laurent for a rock-and-roll edge, or Ganni for the glam disco wow-factor.
