According to Vogue, Y2K has exploded this year, becoming a globally influential fashion language. The style features prominently in fashion weeks worldwide. Runways showcase designs reminiscent of the early 2000s, including: denim, skirts over pants, and ruffled tops. Classic early 2000s bags from Louis Vuitton and Chloe are also seeing renewed demand in the second-hand market. Image: Gorunway

Y2K is an abbreviation for "Year 2000," originally referring to a computer issue that arose at the turn of the millennium when older systems struggled to process the new date format.

In fashion, the Y2K style draws inspiration from the mid-1990s and early 2000s, a period when the internet gained widespread popularity. This aesthetic merges old and new elements, shaped by technological progress. Key features of Y2K fashion include: shiny fabrics, butterfly motifs, low-rise pants, crop tops, cardigans, pleated skirts, baguette bags, colorful sunglasses, low-heeled clogs, and chunky sneakers. Image: Gorunway

Many stars, including Lisa, have propelled Y2K fashion into the spotlight. The Blackpink singer frequently performs in low-rise designs and ultra-short tops, showcasing her midriff. Image: Instagram Lisa

Dua Lipa championed the style with a silver mesh cut-out dress, a signature material of the early 2000s. Image: Instagram Dua Lipa

On the red carpet, actress Ayo Edebiri embraced the style, notably with the skirt-over-pants trend. Elle Fanning also adopted the trend, wearing a choker at the New York Film Festival 2025. She paired it with a suit and satin lingerie, creating an elegant yet rebellious look. Miley Cyrus enhanced her appeal by consistently incorporating Y2K hairstyles and makeup.

In Vietnam, Thanh Thuy exemplifies this fashion trend. The beauty queen has frequently impressed with her balanced blend of femininity and edginess. Image: Courtesy of character

A 2025 trend analysis report by Heuritech indicates continued strong growth for items like crop tops, mini skirts, bolero jackets, tracksuits, and metallic accessories. Vogue considers Y2K a stable style, ranking among the most frequently seen trends this year. Image: Gorunway

This style appeals not only to celebrities but also to Gen Z. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram, along with key opinion leaders (KOLs), have made the trend accessible and popular, leading to its widespread adoption. Image: Gorunway

Marie Claire magazine attributes Y2K's strong resurgence this year to several factors. Fashion history suggests popular styles from a decade tend to reappear every 20 years. The year 2025 aligns with this nostalgic cycle for the early 2000s, contributing to Y2K's enthusiastic reception.

Another reason for the trend's popularity is its rebellious, playful, and convention-defying spirit. This resonates with younger generations, who navigate the pressures of a digital society.

Today's Y2K fashion has evolved from its initial iteration, adapting to broader tastes. Rather than solely reflecting the rebellious pop culture of 2003, contemporary Y2K often incorporates luxury or high-tech elements. This includes designs like oversized blazers, dark denim, long satin dresses, and puffed sleeves. Image: Pinterest

By Sao Mai