Ask any elder millennial and they’ll tell you that the 2010s fashion trends were a lot of fun. Style bloggers ruled the internet and skinny jeans, striped tees, and sneakers were the go-to daily uniform, whether you were an “indie sleaze” fan or more into the twee look. We used flip phones or Blackberries, took pics on digital cameras or our Macbook PhotoBooth, and spent our allowance and paychecks on shiny leggings, bodycon dresses, and deep V-necks at American Apparel.
As a style writer who came of age during that period, there are certain 2010s trends that, even when they fell “out” of fashion, feel timeless—trends that can be easily updated for a new era or generation. I remember my mom laughing about my ‘90s-kid bellbottom jeans and smiley face T-shirts, which were directly inspired by the ones she wore in the ’70s, and now I know exactly how she felt about those trends coming back — I feel the same way when I see that bandage dresses and skinny jeans are “back.” The resurgence of these trends makes a compelling case for storing some of your favorite pieces from every decade so you can bring them back out for another round instead of buying new items to join in on the fun.
Ahead, we’ve rounded up a few 2010s fashion trends that are trickling back into the trend cycle, including a few that never really left in the first place and still feel “worth it” today.
1. Vans Old Skool Sneakers
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Whether you were a pop-punk fan, a skateboarder, or an indie kid who listened to Belle & Sebastian and Vampire Weekend, you were probably wearing a pair of Old Skools. These classic sneakers transcend time and style; they work for everybody, look as good after years of wear as they do on day one, and can be mixed and matched with baggy jeans and slip dresses alike. Old Skools are a true shoe wardrobe essential and have been seen on stars like Rihanna and Emme Muñiz.
2. Skinny Jeans
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