Y2K Fashion Throwback: Trends Passed Down from Millennials to Gen Z

Opinionated debates have struck regarding Millennials vs. Gen Z’s fashion. A lot of fashion and styling from the 90s and 00s is making a comeback. From flared jeans to body-hugging crop tops, several trends have been happily adopted by GenZ. Bold, cheery colours with ruffle, midi skirts, high knee boots, quirky glasses, chunky platform shoes, animal print crop tops, and big pants evoke a distinct 2000s aesthetic. However, despite its origins, Gen Z embraces this style, bringing it back into relevance decades later. 

Karishma Kapoor, the fashion diva of her time has served major wardrobe goals in movies like 'Hero No. 1' and 'Dulhan Hum Le Jayenge'. Every girl has a dream to own a wardrobe like Kareena Kapoor, we mean Poo, from 'Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham'. From the iconic ‘Bole Chudiyan’ outfit to Rani Mukherjee’s ‘Kuch Kuch Hota Hai’ looks, Bollywood has never failed to inspire us with its impeccable style and set the bar high for fashion enthusiasts everywhere.

Let’s dive into how these two generations are redefining and embracing the nostalgia of Y2K fashion in their unique ways. Local samosa recommendations complement the fashion revival, adding a unique twist that does justice to the trend's resurgence.

Strapless or Tube-Tops 

All thanks to the fashion diva of Bollywood who set major fashion trends in the 2000’s era. The OG diva Preity Zinta has not only been loved for her dimples and acting but has inspired us through her styling and fashion. Tube tops paired with baggy cargos or midi skirts are awesome and yes, this trend is coming back. The selection of the outfits in the ‘Salaam Namaste’ movie stands out, showcasing a blend of style and expression. Kareena Kapoor in 'K3G' had also opted for such tops, building an inspiring wardrobe for the iconic role of Poo.

BNF and Littlebox are some brands that offer a huge variety of strapless tops.

Sequin or Shimmer Tops 

The dialogue “Kon Hai Woh Jisne Dobara Mudke Mujhe Nahi Dekha? Who is He?” is iconic for a reason. But the trendy iconic wardrobe that Poo owns is the desire of every girl out there. The bold shimmer tops that Kareena Kapoor chose for her role in K3G were super gorgeous and GenZ has started picking up these tops paired with bootcut jeans just like Poo did. The fashion revival in the new age and opting for these sequin tops makes us sing and groove to 'You're My Soniya.'

Pick your favourite shimmer tops from Savana by Urbanic and Pernia's Pop-up Shop.

Leather Jackets 

Rani Mukherjee’s look in ‘Bichoo’ was bold. The monochromatic outfit in the movie, featuring a black leather jacket paired with a flared skirt and a cami top, exudes a sense of rebelliousness. A similar look was seen on Aishwarya Rai in ‘Josh’. Rani Mukherjee's character had an aesthetically appealing collection of leather jackets. She was seen in coloured leather jackets in 'Kabhi Alvida Na Kehna,' which added charm and holds a special place in the hearts of fashion enthusiasts. Leather jackets are versatile enough to pair with short dresses, skirts, and jeans. 

Pick your favourite leather jacket from Street Style Store and Sassafras.

Dungarees

For effortless and comfortable styling, baggy dungarees are a safe bet. Denim dungarees are an easy way to achieve a sporty look. For picnics, concerts, day outs, or a comfortable traveling experience, dungarees are a must-have in your closet. Kajol, Rani Mukherjee, and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan were seen in dungarees, serving stunning fashion goals, and this style is now revived by Gen Z.

From skinny fit to baggy oversized dungarees, you can opt for either or both. Check out these brands to level up your look; Sassafras and Freakins.

Animal Print

If we're talking about the Y2K fashion and not talk about animal prints then we aren't doing justice to the entire era. This fashion style was so forward and evolved that you won't believe how unique and trendy animal print became in the era. Shilpa Shetty, Rani Mukherjee and Karishma Kapoor were seen in bold animal print outfits. The quirky styling is ideal for college, parties and also day outs. 

Cover Story and Sassafras are some brands that we found and recommend that you add to your collection.

Denim Skirts

Denim skirts are so effortless that they can be styled with shirts, shimmer tops, jackets, sweaters and many more. Katrina Kaif and Preity Zinta were seen in brown jackets and vests with denim skirts that served similar looks. Amisha Patel appeared in a white denim skirt with a crop vest top playing a college student in 'Kaho Na Pyaar Hai.'  Aishwarya Rai, who bagged the title of 'Miss World' in 1994, took our hearts with her funky styling in 'Dhoom 2.'

Check out these appealing outfits to set your fashion game by Freakins and Sassafras.

Co-ord Sets 

Co-ord sets are trending nowadays. But do you know Bollywood divas have already slayed in co-ord sets in the late 90's and 2000's? Karishma Kapoor and Rani Mukherjee were majorly seen in cord sets and they did it so perfectly that you cannot deny the styling they chose. Tina in 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai' to Meena in 'Hero No.1', co-ord sets were prominently featured in these blockbuster movies. Gen Z has picked it up as their current favourites.

Co-ord sets are seen in denim, solid colours ribbed materials. You can buy them from the brands like BNF and Uptownie.

Bootcut Pants

GenZ is opting for bootcut pants that goes with almost everything and are really comfortable, unlike skinny jeans. Be it a fitted crop top or shirt or shimmery chic tops, bootcut pants suited it all. It stands out with a blend of bold and signature looks. For Aishwarya Rai Bachan's look in 'Dhoom 2',  she slayed in a black halter neck top paired with bootcut jeans.

A good pair of bootcut jeans is a must-have wardrobe essential. Freakins and Sassafras offer a collection of denim jeans whether it is a party or you're attending college.

Backless Tops

That Bollywood urge to say "It's backless!" like Poo from K3G whenever you wear a sizzling backless top is real. Outfits owned by Kareena Kapoor and Preity Zinta were gorgeous and the one element that's made a comeback is backless tops. The halter-neck, backless tops give both a sassy and sporty look. Be it a picnic, brunch, party or a day in your college, you can opt for these tops anywhere and everywhere without thinking twice.

Style these tops from Freakins and Uptownie and pair them with skirts cargo or shorts they will look chic and perfectly ready for your outdoor plans.