I was born in the 90s, and few things make me happier than seeing the Y2K fashion from my teen years re-emerge. Fashion in the early 2000s was playful and chaotic at times. The early aughts were a time of playful fashion and, at times, chaos. The late ’90s and early 2000s, also known as Y2K, gave us some of the most iconic fashion and pop culture gems that we still discuss today. The Simple Life, a hit TV show starring Nicole Richie and Paris Hilton, was still on cable. However the fashion was anything but simple.
The fashion from the Y2K era was characterized by a lot of layering, as well as some truly surprising combinations, such as below-the knee boots with pageboy hats or rhinestones with platforms. Tees were worn under baby doll dresses and kitten heels with patterned patterns. Brittney and Justin both wore matching denim looks to the American Music Awards in the early 2000s. Beyonce, who was still part of Destiny’s Child at the time, was also a member. The fashion fun did not stop with ready-to wear. The footwear was also very specific to that era. In the 2000s, it was all about being optimistic, making a bold statement, and having a bit of fun.
Fashion is still cyclical, even decades later. The return of Y2K style means bringing back some fun shoe styles, such as low open-toe mules and chunky thong platform shoes. Leaning on Y2K style shoes will add a touch of nostalgia to your outfit without making you feel like a relic from the past.
Discover the new footwear classics that are inspired by Y2K.
Chunky Loafers
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A chunky platform shoe can take you anywhere. Heeled chunky loafers, the unexpected star shoe of many celeb street style looks in 2000 have triumphantly returned to our closets and hearts. Switch out your all-black shoes for a pair of heeled loafers that feel classic and daring.
For the ultimate 2000s tribute, try going full-blown Bratz with a micro skirt.
Thong Platform Shoes
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In the early 2000s, no trip to the pool or mall would be complete without a pair platform wedges. If they were in a thong-style like this pair of pink wedges, that would be an added bonus. This pair is the only thing that can beat a micro-mini at the beach.
Jelly Shoes
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Jelly shoes were a big deal in early 2000s, even though they didn’t exist. Imagine Lizzy McGuire, an animated character, wearing orange slides that look exactly like Melissa’s! Jellies resembled more a Polly Pocket than a flat.
Calf-Hugging Platform Boots
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Baby Spice, one of the Spice girls, wore white platform boots with similar heights. The Y2K boot had a very snug fit on the calf. They are not only cool but they also take pressure off your balls of feet. You won’t want them off after a couple hours.
Pointy Heels
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What is the one shoe that you would wear for every gong look? The low pointy heel. This shoe can be seen on many celebrities’ red carpet photos peeking out of jeans, gowns and more. The heel is almost always made of faux suede, or suede. It would not be complete without lace up detailing or a mini bow. This metallic heel with its metal embellishments is a throwback to the past in all of the right ways.
Ballet Flats
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In the early 2000s the most popular ballet flats featured a mini bow or an almost ruched look. They add a touch of femininity to any outfit and keep it simple, in case you want to wear a teal dress with tons of rhinestones like Paris Hilton.
Ugg Boots
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Ugg boots were worn in Y2K with a low-rise pair of dark wash jeans. But now, UGGs are worn with anything from cord sets to wide leg pants. Ugg boots have never been out of style and remain popular ever since they made their first appearances on the pop culture scene in the early 2000s. The interior is lined with plush shearling, which makes it a great choice for style and comfort.
Chunky Sneakers
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These chunky sneakers are familiar because they really are! The popularity of this style has fluctuated, but it has always been a constant in the world of shoes. The sneaker’s longevity is due to the fact that they add a subtle touch of chic to any outfit. And the extra inches in height are a bonus.
Rhinestone Kitten Heels
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Nothing says Y2K like a pair rhinestoned kitten heels, unless you count any Mariah Carey images with a butterfly crop-top. Wear them with anything from a silk slipdress to a camo cargo pants for an understated touch of glam.
