Prince may have wanted to party like it was 1999 ever since the day he wrote the song back in 1982, but the Gen Z and millennial generation are trying to go back and dress like it’s 1999, today. I have seen this term, Y2K fashion swirling around social media for quite some time, so I figured it was time to sit down and fully dissect what it means, its history, and how you can pull off the look in 2021.  

WHAT IS Y2K FASHION? 

It is the reemergence of the clothes and aesthetic trends from the late ‘90s and early 2000s (2000-2010). Fashion trends are cyclical so it was only a matter of time before this era came back in style. It has also been made popular by Gen-Z as they were too young to fully embrace it when they were young and millennials to recreate their early teen fashion energy. 

Y2K fashion embraces the period in time where the world was in a state of fear or having an end of the world crisis mentality. It was then intermixed with futuristic advancements in technology and pop culture. Pop stars like Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, and Paris Hilton were trendsetters in their bedazzled low-rise jeans, velour tracksuits, or mini sunglasses to name a few. Basically, statement pieces and over-the-top fashion will turn heads.  

Why is it making a comeback?  

Well, like all fashion trends, they come back around at some point. We can also thank the likes of the HBO series “Euphoria” for inspiration. However, possibly because much like the dawn of the 2000s when there was immense fear about the end of the world, it’s similar to what we are going through now. It’s like a rebirth after surviving a pandemic and spending a lot of time indoors. Much like the turn of the 21st century marked the start of an entirely new era, so has this year. So, this Y2K fashion obsession could also signify a bold, bright new way of dressing to bring happiness to an overall dark year.  

HOW DO YOU WEAR THE Y2K TREND?

What’s old is new again with Y2K-inspired styles, bold patterns, and over-the-top accessories. Because Y2K fashion is making a comeback, here are some of the top pieces to rock (or let your daughter rock) in 2021.

CORSET TOPS

Join the corset craze in waist-cinching designs that are this summer’s hottest statement piece. Corsets have been one of the most-searched-for items on the web recently and with all the new styles to choose from, it is obvious to see why. They are structured, a little sultry. You can also layer your corsets over T-shirts and tanks for a more casual, laid-back look.

VELOUR TRACKSUITS

Well, the obvious brand that made velour tracksuits popular back in the early 2000s is Juicy Couture. If you’re like me or most girls during that time, then you owned a couple of different velour tracksuits in a variety of colors and the perfume to go with. Nowadays, velour tracksuits are making a comeback in an array of bright colors with matching hoodies and even bralettes. Dress them up with the latest platform sandals, your colored sunglasses, and a baguette bag.

BAGUETTE BAGS

I recently wrote an article about how Carrie Bradshaw made the baguette bag super popular in the hit series “Sex and the City.” It’s no wonder this bag is on the list for being a Y2K fashion sensation. One that is getting a lot of hype on the social media scene is the Prada baguette bag. Although, if you’re not looking to spend an arm and a leg (me!), I suggest a cute little colorful shoulder bag with a gold chain strap, that will tuck nicely under your arm.

WIDE-LEG JEANS

Wide-leg, loose-fitting jeans were mostly brought to you by the skaters of this generation for a grunge-inspired look. However, the girls of this decade gave them a feminine twist when paired with a crop top or baby tee. Remember Tai, Britney Murphy’s character, from Clueless? She made this style iconic.

CROP TOPS

Crop tops and baby tees are another major Y2K trend. These teeny-tiny T-shirts were so cool back in the day with kitschy graphics, funny sayings, or symbols. Or, if you wanna wear the trend a different way, try a mock neck crop top in a multicolored stripe or bring pink. This shorter style top pairs well with high-waisted anything like loose jeans, joggers, bike shorts, boxer shorts, or pleated skirts.

PLEATED SKIRTS

As if! Yes, pleated skirts are also making a comeback in Y2K fashion, thanks to Cher from “Clueless” and the Britney Spears music video for “Hit Me Baby One More Time.” So, lots of plaids and bright colors will be the perfect match for a pleated skirt. To complete the look, opt for crop tops, baby tees, and sweater vests. Knee socks and Mary Jane style shoes or boots are optional.

MESH AND METALLICS

Luminous fabrics were reminiscent of the early 2000 tech boom and the millennium-inspired futuristic fashion like in “The Matrix.” Lots of silver and opalescent hues were everywhere, paired alongside bright neon shades of pink, green, and yellow. Wear your mesh and metallics on jackets, bags, or even crop tops.

ACCESSORIES

Bucket hats, bandanas, butterfly hair clips, and mini sunglasses all are another part of the Y2K trend. They are also perfect for summer for keeping your face out of the sun and your hair looking done!

Do you think you’ll be wearing any Y2K fashion this year? As Y2K fashion is back in a major way. Just like Prince said, even in 2021, we will be partying like it’s 1999.

Not ready to give up your pajamas quite yet? Me neither. I have become so accustomed to my work-from-home uniform that looks something like a healthy rotation of joggers, t-shirts, or a matching loungewear set. Who would argue that working from the comfort of your home in your “comfies” has been a bad way to live your life? Well, wearing pajamas out of the house is officially in. Here’s a list of ways that your sleepwear can double as streetwear:

SHIRTDRESS

Why not wear your favorite striped or white shirt sleep-dress as a streetwear dress? A simple button-down shirt like The Perfect Boyfriend Shirt from Summersalt is a perfect way to rock the look. You can pair it with cropped pants and sneakers, dress it up with heels and a crossbody bag or dress it down as a swimsuit cover-up and flip-flops to the beach!

MATCHING SWEATSUIT SETS

Sweatsuit sets were a major fashion trend during quarantine in 2020 and this year there’s no exception. Most people own some version of a matching sweatsuit at this point, so I don’t feel this one will be a hard one for most to come by. Pair with casual white sneaks but if you really want to take this trend to the next level, opt for a pair of barely-there heels! That will be an eye-catcher for sure!

SATIN PAJAMA SETS

Slinky satin pajama pants or shorts are elegant items that are perfect for lounging at home or going out. If you have a matching satin top, wear them together! Wear The Cloud 9 Pajama Set matching set by Summersalt from the bedroom to the streets or wear them as separates with a simple sweater, button-down, or T-shirt. Add a neutral embellished slide, ballet slipper, or men-inspired loafer. To complete the look, add accessories like a handbag or belt.

SILK/SATIN ROBE

Silk or satin robes worn as jackets are such a fitting way to incorporate sleepwear into streetwear. If you’re looking for something a little bolder, add a leopard print, bright-colored hue, or bold floral print robe. Add a simple t-shirt or tank with pants and heels and you’ve got an elegant look that was made for the streets. 

LACE CAMISOLE

While this may be something you would have worn pre-pandemic, it’s even more on-trend right now. A lace camisole paired with loose high-waisted jeans is sleepwear-inspired and pairs well on the streets too. Add a pair of braided slides and a blazer for a chic look.

JOGGER JEANS

Jogger jeans (sometimes referred to as jeggings, pajama jeans, or sweatpant jeans) became even more popular this year. They are made out of cotton and have the look of a jean. They are super versatile and can be dressed up or down. 

CAFTANS

Colorful caftans with bright bold colors and prints are perfect for this time of year.  Pair them with matching palazzo pants to elongate your silhouette. Caftans are also great on their own worn with a pair of slides or as a beach cover-up! 

JUMPSUITS

Even your comfy jumpsuits or your cotton onesies are stylish outside. If your loungewear is in cashmere or merino wool, those styles are super chic to rock on the street. Perfect for this coming fall with Chelsea or combat boots.

VELOUR TRACKSUITS

Velour tracksuits are perfect for any indoor or outdoor activity. For an easy ensemble, just throw on some fashion sneakers and your tech gadget accessories, then head out the door.

SLIPDRESS

The slip dress is a no-brainer when it comes to wearing sleepwear as streetwear. This stylish garment transitions wonderfully from day to night. Just dress it up with strappy heels and a leather jacket. Or, you can dress it down by wearing a T-shirt or long-sleeve underneath.

FAUX LEATHER SLIDES

This one is one of my favorite trends to come out of quarantine. Sherpa slippers worn as streetwear are so on-trend right now. I think it’s just so chic; I recently saw celebrities like Megan Fox wearing the UGG Fluff Yeah slippers in Beverly Pink. 

NAP DRESSES/NIGHTGOWNS

Nap dresses, or shall we say, nightgowns, are the most effortless and feminine look. Nap dresses with smocked details are adorable worn alone with simple accessories like a straw hat and neutral-colored slides. However, if you want to truly modernize your nightgown on the streets pair it with a thick belt strappy heels.

With all these fun styles and all the new sleepwear and loungewear that you have collected during quarantine, what will you dare to wear as streetwear?

A clog may be with or without a back and the toes are usually enclosed. The difference between a mule and a clog is that a clog sits atop a chunky, platform-style sole, specifically at the ball of the foot. Right now it’s all about clogs, a classic shoe that has been reinvented in all styles you can imagine. This old-school shoe is getting a makeover for Spring/Summer 2021 and we are here for it!

HISTORY OF CROCS SHOES

There has never been more controversy over a single brand of shoes than Crocs. Is it a gardening shoe, boat shoe, clog, or fashionable everyday street shoe? Whether you love it or hate it, Crocs are making yet another comeback in a major fashionable way. Just to give you an example, sales for Crocs rose 64% in the first quarter 2021 compared to last year’s profits, breaking record sales for the company. Their profit grew to $122.5 million during the first three months this year compared to its previous $18.7 million.

Crocs were created back in 2002 by Lyndon Hanson and Geroge Boedecker, Jr. after they had discovered a revolutionary material of antimicrobial resin foam by a company named Foam Creations. They used a molded foam product to create their first design which they named The Beach. They brought 200 pairs to a Fort Lauderdale boat show and sold out of virtually every single pair of shoes they had made at the time.

Crocs took a genius angle back in 2018 by collaborating with rapper Post Malone and released a pair of Crocs inspired by his tattoos. The “Post Malone X Crocs Barbed Wire Clog collection” sold out in minutes (I remember because I tried to buy a pair by myself waiting *impatiently* on my laptop for the opening of the release). Everyone said they would be a collector’s item and to this day are being auctioned off way above their original $59.99 sticker price. Fashion resellers have new pairs listed anywhere from $500-$2,000 depending on the size. More recently, Crocs did another collaboration with Justin Bieber and the Justin Bieber X Crocs Classic Clog was their biggest collab to date. Lastly, musical director Questlove appeared on the Academy Awards red carpet and created a social media fashion frenzy clad in his gold spray-painted Crocs.

The shoes continued to have much success despite their controversial style. However, they keep bouncing back to stay afloat (so to speak) and today, is another one of those times. Crocs have made a comeback and this time, they are taking the fashion world along for a ride. 

CLOGS ARE IN

Now that we have introduced the number one trending clog at the moment, the Croc, let’s dive in and also discuss other styles of clogs that have most definitely hit the fashion scene by storm. 

SHERPA CLOGS

Who could think of a better way to wear your clogs than with an outer layer of sherpa?! Most of these styles have a comfortable footbed that makes them perfect for lounging or to wear outside the house. They are super cozy looking and also give you that sleepwear chic vibe.

BRIGHT CLOGS

Neon clogs are all the rage as we are loving bright, bold colors for spring. It’s also a great twist on a classic retro-style clog that we haven’t seen before. These are adorable to pair with even the simplest of outfits as they will stand out and get lots of attention on their own.

ANIMAL PRINT CLOGS

Instantly jazz up any outfit with animal print clogs! Animal print clogs are taking over in prints like zebra, leopard print, and even calf-hair cow print. Such a cute way to wear your clogs this season.

PLATFORM CLOGS

Clogs with high platforms give your clogs an elevated look which is perfect if you want something a little dressier. You can find them in neutral cognac suede or back leather styles which are equally as chic. Added details like buckles and embellishments are fun extras too.

RUBBER CLOGS

Even luxury designers are making a high-fashion version of the rubber clog with a rounded toe, slingback style, and rugged sole. These are definitely an on-trend style that will transition well from the garden to dinner out with friends.

FLORAL PRINT CLOGS

Just in time for Spring/Summer: floral prints (or hand-painted florals) are so cute to wear on your clogs. Floral print clogs are super fun even with a simple summer dress or T-shirt and jeans.

BIRKENSTOCK CLOGS

The ever-popular Birkenstock brand makes a wide variety of clog-style Birks. I love their Boston style which is a casual one buckle style that you can buy in neutral suede or leather styles alike, Colors like taupes and light browns are classics.

RETRO CLOGS

This is your classic Swedish or Dutch staple if you are new to clogs and want to start out slow. Try a neutral color like navy, black, white, or even red if you’re feeling a little bolder.

CROCS

And finally, to round out this list, it’s the Crocs. Don’t be shy and even wear your Crocs with socks as that’s also a major trend this year. From sherpa to neon, to platform Crocs with charms of your choice, this is a trend we can’t escape. I can’t deny, I’m here for it! I bought my first pair last weekend in white!

If you’re anything like me then you have caught yourself re-evaluating your loungewear now that it is practically all we have been wearing for the last year. The way I see it, it is a practical reason as the more high quality your loungewear, the longer they will last (longevity), the more sustainable, and higher quality means more comfort and personal satisfaction. Therefore; I think it’s the wisest decision one can make to invest in elevated pieces to build out your loungewear collection. I never thought I would be in a position to care that much about what I am wearing at home, but now that I am a little older and wiser now (lol), I am finally beginning to understand the value in quality over quantity. So, let’s explore all the amazing ways you can upgrade your loungewear and the 5 elevated pieces you need to get you there.  

01. SILK PAJAMAS

Yes, that’s right 100% silk pajamas. I think this category belongs in the “treat yo’self” section because let me tell you, silk pajamas are the real deal. I purchased a two-piece set that came with shorts and a tank top and they were supreme! I truly feel like a royal when I sleep in them because they are just that luxurious, I feel like a queen. There’s something to be said about the company I bought them from too, which has now been sold out of this exact set for two months. I wish they would hurry and re-stock so that I can get another pair! In fact, “the silks,” as I like to refer to them as were so dang good, I bought them for my mom as a gift for Mother’s Day. I, in turn, wanted her to live in the lap of luxury throughout the year as well. I gifted her the long high-waisted pant with side slits and cropped button-down short-sleeved silk set in solid black. I know she will get lots of use out of them! So, if you want to feel like a queen, I suggest investing in a silk pajama set too! 

I hope this guide inspires you to rethink your loungewear and to treat yourself to something nice! Until then, stay tuned for next week’s article where we will dive into a more in-depth discussion on the topic!

It’s one of the most essential pieces in your wardrobe – a staple in the truest meaning of the word and so versatile. I’ve said it before but it’s the one item every woman needs to own at least one of in their collection: The white blouse. It’s classic, timeless, and makes you look instantly chic however you choose to style it. In my opinion, if you only had one top, it should be the white blouse. Recently, I have added many styles to my collection: the boyfriend,  textured, the classic, and one with puffy sleeves. The point being, they all serve various purposes and can be worn on multiple occasions. That’s why I love having a few in many styles in my arsenal. Today, I want to explain how you can wear a white blouse, of all different styles, and why it’s the best choice ever! 

CLASSIC FITTED 

No wardrobe is complete without one classic white blouse. It’s the best worn on its own or for layering, so make sure that yours is high quality too. This is one of those pieces that will last forever so if the fit and the feel of the blouse is just right – it will consistently stay in your outfit rotation. A classic white blouse will pair well with jeans for casual wear to two-piece suits for work. It’s so versatile, this shirt is meant for styling in all the ways possible. 

TEXTURED 

White button-ups get a casual, cool vibe when made out of a textured almost boho style. This top is more casual, so you can wear it open or buttoned up front tucked into jeans or shorts for summer. Longer versions work well here too as textured white button-ups are made for bathing suit cover-ups too. Simply wear loosely over your favorite bathing suit, throw on some flip-flops and you’re ready for any pool or beach day in the sun!

PUFFY SLEEVE 

When you want to take your white blouse to the next level, choose this puffy sleeve option to truly elevate any look. Again, this white blouse can be worn with jeans and braided/woven kitten heels or with your dressiest trousers. Either way, this is a look that will speak volumes!  

BOYFRIEND 

The boxier, boyfriend-style cuts are crisp and also very versatile. This style can look casual untucked with jeans or tucked into high-waisted trousers for a more formal look. It’s practically like you stole your boyfriend’s white button-down and made it all your own. Super chic and very of the moment right now.   

POCKETED 

The dual front utility-style pockets or one strong square single pocket white blouse is another way to rock your white blouse. This white blouse is so versatile it will have you ready for work or the weekend in one of the most appealing cuts.  

OVERSIZED 

Some of the best white button-downs are oversized and drapey and made out of cotton or linen. It’s so adaptable too meaning it works well on various body shapes as you can create a multitude of ways to wear it. You can wear french tucked or tie it up in front to accentuate a higher waistline. It’s another one of those shirts you can wear with anything and look like a million bucks. 

SHORT-SLEEVE 

If your classic white blouse isn’t quite keeping you cool enough during the heat of the summer months, the short-sleeve white blouse is your best-kept secret. Try a casual linen style with rolled cuff sleeves and a classic collar. The buttons can even be more casual in natural wood or opalescent buttons. The short-sleeve button-ups are the best worn with denim shorts and sandals for the coolest, casual look of them all.   

HOW TO STYLE IN THE SUMMER: 

COVER-UP 

I can’t think of a better way to wear a white blouse during the summer than to style an oversized version of the shirt over a bikini or one-piece this summer. It’s so so so chic, effortless, and did I mention an easy way to pull off that “cool-girl” vibe?! All you’ll need to bring is your summer essentials – your beach bag, sunglasses, and flip-flops. The rest you’ve already got covered – in the chicest cover-up of them all: the white blouse. 

TIE-FRONT CROPPED 

When the heat begins to turn up, tie your white blouse at the waist to create not only a waistline but a style that is so on-point for summer. This look would be so cute with jean cut-off shorts, cropped denim, or your ‘90s khaki trousers. Add a bright-colored slide sandal and your straw tote bag for a look that will have your friends “fit to be tied.” 

WITH SHORTS 

A classic white blouse will pair perfectly with any style of summer shorts too. You can tuck it into your paper bag shorts for a classic look if you’re going for more of an elevated look or you can wear it with your sporty bike shorts. One of my favorite looks for summer is the classic white blouse with jean cut-offs and a simple sandal. It’s one of the easiest ways to look polished and put together with minimal effort. That’s the beauty of the white blouse, it will always make your look “smarter” worn in the most simple of ways.  

Which ways do you plan to wear your white blouse this spring/summer? 

I have never felt more ready than right now to finally be able to debut all the great finds that I have collected during quarantine in preparation for this very moment! Alas, I will reserve the infamous TikTok leggings and other embarrassing fashion purchases I made for another time. For now, it’s about putting your best foot forward as you begin to reemerge into the social world again. Yes, you’ll be visiting friends, attending summer BBQ get-togethers, and resume attending dinner parties out again. This means you must dress the part. So let’s round up the best summer outfits and ideas for 2021 that will get you started thinking about it.