Fashion
Jun 2, 2020

5 It Pieces From the Early 2000s That We're All Still Wearing

by Elinor Block

I think everyone must have been freezing during the early ’00s, as there was an overwhelmingly popular trend for wearing the shortest of crop tops with the lowest riding jeans. While I can definitely see the appeal in this outfit at the time, looking back, there’s no denying that it looks pretty dated.

Thankfully, that trend is not one we’re still wearing today. But I can’t say the same for a few other It pieces that were total winners during the time. In 2020, there have been quite a few trends we all loved back then that have found their way into our wardrobes. From halter-necks to clutch bags to combat trousers, I’ve detailed five of the biggest trends we loved during the early ’00s and how we’re wearing them now.

Early 2000s fashion: Kate moss wearing a halter neck

Photo:

Getty

Then: The slip-dress trend of the ’90s definitely influenced the halter-necks of the ’00s. Of course, Kate Moss knew how to make it look incredible by layering her white low-cut halter under a lace skirt.

Photo:

@nnennaechem

Now: Anything goes with halter-necks in 2020. Clash bold printed tops with brightly coloured trousers, or opt for my personal favourite—a high-neck halter, which looks very chic paired with a bright-prink blazer.

Early 2000s fashion: Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen wearing clutch bags

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Getty

Then: Of course, the Olsens knew the clutch bag was cool. While some trends definitely should have stayed in the early ’00s (crotchless jeans, we’re looking at you), the clutch is one that will always look sophisticated.

Early 2000s fashion: Bottega Veneta clutch bag street style

Photo:

@emilisindlev

Now: Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ll know that the Bottega clutch became one of 2019’s biggest It bags. This year is no different with the style remaining popular in 2020, but there are other brands that have great versions too. From The Row to the high street, the clutch bag is everywhere.

Photo:

Style Stalker

Early 2000s fashion: Natalie Portman wearing flip flops

Photo:

Getty

Then: I was weirdly obsessed with flip-flops during the early ’00s (I was going through a surfer phase). And if I ever needed confirmation that this trend was cool, at least I know Natalie Portman loved them too.

Photo:

@monikh

Now: Flip-flops are no longer reserved for people wearing jeans and a vest top. Last summer was all about matching your midi dress to your shoe colour, but in 2020, it’s about chunky flip-flops too. Take your pick—either will work.

Photo:

@monikh

Early 2000s fashion: Keira Knightley wearing chunky necklace

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Getty

Then: A chunky necklace was exactly the kind of jewellery you wore with a nice top and jeans during the early ’00s.

Early 2000s fashion: chunky gold necklace street style

Photo:

@slipintostyle

Now: In 2019, the chunky necklace was an essential part of the fashion set’s uniform, and that remains the case well into 2020. From gold chains to seashells, there are plenty of different styles to suit every taste.

Early 2000s fashion: Gwen stefani wearing combat trousers

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Getty

Then: Gwen Stefani and Jennifer Lopez wore combat trousers exceptionally well. The main aspect, however, was that they were baggy and usually paired with Adidas trainers.

Early 2000s fashion: street style combat trousers

Photo:

Style Stalker

Now: It’s all about a more tailored approach rather than a loose fit. While combat trousers are still slightly slouchy, the tapered leg is a must for 2020’s version.