As a stylist, you wouldn’t believe how much of my job is a scavenger hunt based on the misplaced nostalgia of my clients. I like to think of Fashion trends as well-placed nostalgia; that would be the rest of my job I have to keep track of. 

Fashion trends are like that well-dressed aunt that refuses to let go of that top from the 70s she once wore to a party, or anything that looks like it she’s brought ever since. Critically, we’ve been cycling between the 20s to the 70s every few years, and then the 90s when it all fails. This year we even hit the quirky ‘aughts (early 2000s) fashion archives. 

The early 2000s were a time of bold fashion choices and experimental styles. As these trends make a comeback in 2025, they bring with them a sense of nostalgia and fun. By incorporating these key items into your wardrobe and styling them with a modern twist, you can create looks that are both trendy and timeless. Whether you’re a fan of low-rise jeans or waistcoats, there’s something for everyone in this revival of early 2000s fashion.

1. Embellished Jeans

Low-rise jeans were a staple of early 2000s fashion, often paired with crop tops to show off the midriff. This trend is back, with a modern twist. Today’s low-rise jeans come in various styles, from flared to skinny, and are often seen in distressed or embellished designs. Stories went viral from spring/summer of beaded pants from the Valentino show and that trend has now trickled down to rhinestone studded jean jackets and straight cut/mom jeans for both men and women.
Styling Tip: Pair your embellished jeans with a fitted neutral-coloured crop top or a loose, oversized tee for a balanced look. Add a pair of chunky sneakers to complete the outfit.

2. Mini Skirts

Mini skirts were a defining element of early 2000s fashion, often seen in denim or pleated styles. This trend is back, with modern variations including leather and satin mini skirts as seen at the CULT original, Mimosa & ELE Fashion.
Styling Tip: Pair a mini skirt with a fitted shirt for that brat aesthetic or a coordinated or mismatched waistcoat for that demure vibe. Platform shoes would be best to elongate your legs and create a chic silhouette, but chunky heels with a tie-up or strappy element are your next bet. Bonus points if you mix in athletic socks, but I doubt Lankans would be that daring,

3. Baby Tees

Baby tees, characterised by their tight fit and cropped length, are another early 2000s trend making a comeback. These tees are perfect for layering or wearing on their own for a casual, laid-back look. Take it one step further with a tiny embroidery or print reminiscent of the 90s.
Styling Tip: Wear a baby tee with high-waisted jeans or a midi skirt. Layer with a denim jacket or a cardigan for added warmth and style.

4. Cargo Pants

Cargo pants, known for their multiple pockets and relaxed fit, were a popular choice in the early 2000s. They are now being reintroduced with a more tailored and streamlined design. Lighter and chic’ fabrics as well as colour tones that are a pastel lavender are very much Gen Z as well as Gen Alpha. Even the accessories used with it (zips, tags and tacks) all echo tech wear influences of the past few years for a fresh new look for men and women alike and they are a sure hit as I seem to never find them in the appropriate size when I’m looking for them at any retailer in town.
Styling Tip: Pair cargo pants with a fitted tank top or a bodysuit. Add a pair of chunky boots or sneakers for a utilitarian yet fashionable look.

5. Halter Tops

Halter tops, which tie around the neck and leave the shoulders bare, were a popular choice for both casual and dressy occasions in the early 2000s. This trend is back, with updated fabrics and cutouts at the sides, not to mention full maxi-length dress variations that lean into futuristic aesthetics brought on by our dystopian movies as of late.
Styling Tip: Wear a halter top with high-waisted trousers or a maxi skirt. Add gold bauble style statement earrings and a clutch that’s rubber or sequin pieced for a sophisticated evening look.

6. Denim on Denim

The double denim trend, often referred to as the “Canadian tuxedo,” was a hallmark of early 2000s fashion (please try to forget ‘this will ruin the world tour’ JT & Britney matching set). This trend is making a comeback with a more polished and coordinated approach with darker tones in looser fits and making sure it’s perceived as a more smart casual outfit than anything else.
Styling Tip: Pair a denim jacket with matching jeans or a denim skirt. Keep the look cohesive by choosing similar washes and adding neutral accessories.