Throwback to early 2000s fashion — low-rise jeans, chunky highlights, and white eyeliner ruled the world. Whether you were channeling Britney, Paris, or Avril, it was a chaotic mix of glam, grunge, and “why did we ever think that was cute?” Getting ready felt like a full-blown event — straightening our hair within an inch of its life, spritzing body spray until we couldn’t breathe, and snapping photos on our digital cameras and cheap flip phones. It was chaotic, colorful, and completely unforgettable.
While some of those trends are coming back into style, I hope most stay in the past. (Just like my old myspace account.) Here’s a look at what we wore then, and what I’d wear instead now.
1. Low-Rise Jeans → High-Waisted Everything
Then: Low-rise jeans were the moment — especially the ones with rhinestone pockets or lace-up sides. Remember not being able to sit down in class or bend over without everyone knowing exactly what color your underwear was? Bonus points if you paired them with a cropped baby tee or halter top.
Now: My spine and self-esteem prefer high-waisted styles, especially since I’ve had 3 kids! I’ll take a structured wide-leg trouser or a vintage-inspired skinny jean instead. The silhouette is more flattering, more comfortable, and still gives that effortless “cool girl” vibe — minus the fear of bending over.
2. Chunky Jewelry → Minimal, Intentional Pieces
Then: Charlotte Russe anyone? Statement jewelry wasn’t just a choice — it was the moment. We stacked plastic bangles up to our elbows and layered chunky beaded or flowered necklaces like we were building armor. The louder, shinier, and chunkier, the better. It was all about standing out and making a statement, even if it didn’t always match.
Now: I still love jewelry that tells a story, but the statement has shifted. These days, I reach for minimal, intentional pieces — gold hoops with clean lines, a simple chain, or a dainty ring stack. Instead of trying to grab attention, the jewelry complements the outfit and elevates it. The vibe is effortless, refined, and timeless — like the grown-up version of our Y2K sparkle obsession.
3. Butterfly Clips → Sleek Accessories
Then: Butterfly clips, rhinestone barrettes, and crimped hair were the trifecta of cool. I can remember begging my sister to help me braid the back of my hair before bed so I could wake up to sheer hair perfection. (I still think about those sleepless nights in pursuit of what I thought were hair goals!)
Now: I swap them for minimalist claw clips, satin scrunchies, or gold pins. It’s the same playful spirit, just polished and intentional.
4. Juicy Couture Tracksuits → Elevated Loungewear
Then: Velour was luxury. The matching Juicy Couture sets with “JUICY” splashed across the butt defined early 2000s glam. I always had knock off ones because my dad refused to let me have writing on my butt. (Which I now appreciate with a daughter of my own!)
Now: I still love a matching set, but I reach for neutral-toned knitwear or soft cotton joggers. I’m at the point in life where I want to be comfortable 90% of the time, so a cozy and chic option is what I’m into. No glitter logos required.
5. Layered Tank Tops → Simple, Thoughtful Styling
Then: We all layered three camis at once like it was a survival tactic. Bonus points for contrasting lace trims and visible bra straps. Honestly I don’t know how we used to breathe with all those clothes on, plus the hoodie or polo you added on top to complete the look.
Now: One well-fitted tank or bodysuit does the job. I focus on texture — silk, linen, or a ribbed knit — instead of color chaos. Pair it with a simple sweater and the result feels cleaner, grown-up, and effortlessly put together.
6. Chunky Highlights → Soft Dimension
Then: Thick, zebra-stripe highlights and side bangs were the beauty standard. You were even cooler if you could pull off the Christina Aguilera look– blonde, black, and red. (I know, yikes right?!)
Now: I’ve done hair for the last 15 years, and it’s all about natural, blended tones and soft money pieces. Baby-lights and teasy-lights: doing a ton to make it look like your hair naturally grows that way. It’s all about enhancing what you already have subtlety— not for shock value.
7. Glitter Everything → Subtle Glow
Then: Body glitter, frosty eyeshadow, and roll-on shimmer were non-negotiable. Ever lose your friend? No problem, just follow the glitter trail!
Now: Soft and natural is the way to go. I’m all about dewy skin, subtle contouring, and soft shimmer — glowing, not glittering. More “lit from within,” not “middle school dance floor.”
Grown-Up Nostalgia
While my Facebook memories still make me cringe, I can’t help but think of those days with fond nostalgia. I lived for the weekends spent getting ready with my friends, blasting T-Pain, and heading out to some random field party we had no business being at. Early 2000s fashion was carefree, bold, and full of personality — and so many layers. The best part of revisiting it now is being able to take what we loved and make it our own again. We can keep the confidence, ditch the low-rise jeans, and still have fun experimenting with trends — just with a little more intention (and better fabric).
Also read: Discover the Benefits of the Therabody Face Mask Today