Hey Soul Sister, 2010 Nostalgia 2.0 Is Here!

This season’s 2010 nostalgia has us feeling “Like A G6”. Time to re-up your stash of jeans, trenches, peplums and ballet flats.

After more than a few years of Y2k domination, the fashion cycle is moving again. Faster than you can say “Cronuts”, the zeitgeist of 2010s fashion is beginning to fill our wardrobes. But as the 2.0 tag implies, this is a fresh take, not rinse-and-repeat. Plenty of practical and basic favorites made the list while others?…not so much.

So let’s dive in to which trends we’re still craving like Froyo, and which should probably stay in our collective past, like those Screaming Goats videos.

#10 – FITTED, BUT RELAXED JEANS

For those who hear “2010s” and get triggered at the thought of leg-crushing skinny jeans making a return…breathe easy, friends. As of now, that level of poor material skinny jean that numbed our feet from cut off circulation are staying in the past. Instead, 2010 Nostalgia 2.0 is leaning heavy towards mid-rise boyfriend, high-waisted 90s, and as for skinny, the 2023 version is much more relaxed. Thanks to ever-improving materials like 4-way stretch, spandex and elastane, now you can have your cake and eat it too (without the pinching stomach).

These slim boyfriend jeans from Mott & Bow understood the assignment completely.

Mott & Bow, Slim Boyfriend Ridge Jeans $129

These mid-rise, 90s style Joe’s Jeans have a denim finish giving them a vintage look, but are made with modern stretch that make them super comfy.

Joe’s Jeans, The 90’s Niki Jean $99

(on Sale NOW from $198)

Finally, these super high-rise, straight legs from NYDJ look exactly like something Elaine Benes from Seinfeld would totally rock (along with her boxy blazer and chunky loafers).

NYDJ, Relaxed Straight Fit High-Rise Jeans $88.98

(on Sale NOW from $119)

#9 – THE BALLET FLAT

Ah, the classic ballet flat. This was THE go-to shoe for the Tumblr era. And thanks to Balletcore paving the way, this “never really out of style” chic shoe is poised for full 23-24 domination.

Like these dark burgundy beauties from M. Gemi, that have a secret *hidden* heel that gives you just a touch of lift and added comfort.

M. Gemi, The Danza in Dark Burgundy $248

Speaking of comfort, this metallic flat by Clarks is made with a part-recycled Contour Cushion footbed to support your every step.

Clarks USA, Ubree 15 Step Metallic Leather $110

Finally if you’ve been obsessed with those classic, round-toe black flats that Gigi Hadid was sporting all over the streets of NY, you are in luck. We have them! They’re called the Classic Ballerina and are made by Mansur Gavriel.

Mansur Gavriel, Dream Ballerina in Black $395

#8 – THE CORSET TOP

Another favorite that continues to stay relevant in our closets – the corset top was a front-and-center wardrobe item throughout the 2010s. Dua Lipa, Beyonce, and of course Kim Kardashian were the front runners, however it did not take long before it became a mainstay of award shows, festival wear and as an *unexpected* item mixed in with another newly-spawned 2010 trend called Athleisure. Nowadays, the corset is less shock value and more mainstay. From casual with jeans, fanciful with skirts or sleek and polished under a power suit, the corset top gives so many options.

Like this colorful cutie from Windsor, which gets extra points for the butterfly details. Style it with a ruched mini and knee high boots (very circa 2010s) or modernize it with tailored wide leg pants and statement jewelry.

Windsor, Social Butterfly Mesh Corset Top $34.90

Another great piece with so many options. This minimalist version from Wacoal can easily work as a date night option with some boyfriend jeans, or consider layering it over top of a boxy white button up and some biker shorts.

Wacoal, Future Foundation Strapless Bra $55

This white, satin version by Murmur could easily go dreamy and fem with a floaty, floral midi, or full off-duty drip paired with your fav cargos and some kickin sneaks.

Murmur, Satin-Finish Cropped Corset Top $242

#7 – THE WHITE SNEAK

One of the cornerstones of the 2010 Normcore look was centered around the rather novel concept of the simple white shoe. After the multi colorblocking, super textured and patterned sneaks of the early aughts, it seemed we were all looking for a little break from the bedazzled. Fast forward to now, and our nostalgia for these classic white sneaks has segued beautifully into the luxe minimalist trend.

When it comes to effortless grace and luxurious fabrics, you have Common Projects. These white-on-white beauties we found at La Garconne. Supple Napa leather in a retro runner silhouette and of course the brand’s signature gold stamped style numbers on side heel.

Common Projects, at La Garconne, Track 90 $611

Looking for that chunky sole heel in a more budget friendly option? These trainer style sneaks by Clarks are designed with a 20% recycled footbed that channels flexibility and cushioning for your ultimate comfort.

Clarks, Craft Cup Walk White Leather $110

Finally, if you’re starting to sour on your Sambas, consider the adidas Gazelle, which gives you all the retro-soccer vibes in a crisp, white-on-white package.

adidas, Gazelle Shoes in Cloud White $100

#6 – PEPLUM

One of the more polarizing trends from the 2010s is back. But before you engage in core memory cringe, we’re here to say the 2023 peplum reads less like the stiff ruffle of grandma’s lamp shade, and more flowy and soft.

This frothy chiffon top from Noir by Kei Ninomiya interprets the updated trend perfectly. Layers of airy tulle around the gathered ruffled hem are giving 21st century Cinderella. A beautiful piece, and we found it on sale at La Garconne.

Noir by Kei Ninomiya at La Garconne, Nylon Tulle and Polyester Organdy Top $468 (on Sale NOW from $1, 170)

This wrinkle-resistant, four-way stretch white peplum top will be giving your plain white tee some serious competition. The shoulder skimming neckline definitely ups the sexy factor (there’s grip tape sewn in so no wardrobe malfunctions here!).

Boston Proper, Beyond Travel Peplum Top $49.98

(on Sale NOW from $79.50)

Finally we have this adorbs, super soft knit top from Elie Tahari. We’re loving the addition of the defined waistband, which definitely elevates the whole look. But most of all? Um, that would be the fact that it comes in THE color of 2010…Millennial Pink!

Elie Tahari, Wrap Peplum Sweater $117

(on Sale NOW from $195)

#5 – PLAID

The 90s revival that hit the 2010s gave us back one of our favorite pattern plays…namely plaid. Skirts, dresses, blazers and pants all received the Cher Horowitz seal of approval. The 2023 update version of this trend has us doing a lot more mixing than matching, as well as layering different but complementary pieces together. Not sure how to do that? We have a whole article that explains exactly how to mix and match your plaids.

This blue plaid mini dress is fantastic by itself, but also makes for a great base layer for playing around with more pieces.

Windsor, Delightfully Cute Plaid Cargo Mini Dress $29.90

Speaking of Clueless, the color palette on this overcoat is giving major Cher, but in a fresh 2023 silhouette.

Karl Lagerfeld, Exploded Glen Plaid Overcoat $115

Finally, this traditional brown plaid gets a glow up when revamped as a cool pair of cargo joggers.

A New Day, High-Rise Ankle Joggers $30

#4 – THE RIBBED CARDIGAN

While it would be another ten years before Taylor sang about it, there were plenty of us wearing cardigans throughout the 2010s, especially with our platform heels and pencil skirts. Nowadays we are more inclined to pair these with wide leg pants and a tee, or buttoned up completely and worn on its own with baggy jeans.

Like this lovely neutral from Michael Stars, which is made from soft and lightweight Rhodes Rib fabric that has a variegated rib texture for added visual interest.

Michael Stars, Lyla Ribbed Cardigan $88

We’re loving the ruffle detail on this sweet, pomegranate-colored cardi from Paige.

Paige, Pomeline Cardigan $199

The cool color-blocking element on Summersalt’s cardigan gives it a cool, bespoke look.

Summersalt, The Perfect Lightweight Cardigan $65

#3 – THE STATEMENT NECKLACE

After the whole “necklace theory” situation, is it any wonder that the substantial statement necklaces of the 2010s would find their way back to us? Luxe chains, bold layerings, and commanding collars are just three of the statement pieces already off the runways and on the streets. The 23-24 take however is to make these pieces the perfect showcase against all those minimal and neutral colors saturating our wardrobes.

Here’s a great example of the retro chunky chain, modernized with the addition of carabiner detail that’s oh-so-very 2023.

Zoe Lev, 14k Gold Large Paper Clip Chain w/Carabiner Necklace $1,300

Here’s another, combining the iconic 2010 choker with the floral obsession of this season – the rosette. This one in muted gold metallic will look stunning with all your holiday looks.

Cato, Chiffon Flower Choker Necklace $9.99

Finally, layering isn’t just for the delicate pieces anymore. This season we’re taking those single bold pieces and putting them all together to create their own unique artwork. Couture brand TOUS does this beautifully with this chic combination from their newest collection called Manifesto.

TOUS, 44 CM Cultured Pearl Necklace $365 and Curbed Chain in Silver $410

#2 – ATHLEISURE, BUT MAKE IT 2.0

The rise of the influencers came upon us in the 2010s, and if you were anyone who was anyone, you were most likely posting all your pics in biker shorts and sports bras…with zero intention of heading to the gym. Of course like every other retro trend out there, athleisure has evolved. Merging with our collection love of subsequent trends like gorpcore, we’re now firmly leaning into more utility and less lululemon.

The cinch-able bungee waist on these cargos from Alo Yoga show the evolution away from the *expected* workout leggings.

Alo Yoga, Megastar Cargo Pant $138

Hoodies are forever, but now we’re looking for some utility upgrades.

X-Girl, Kangaroo Pocket Anorak $52.60

(on Sale NOW from $119.99)

Finally, leave it to Ivy Park to take the sports bra into the future with 3D printing.

adidas x Ivy Park, 3D Knit Bralette $75

#1 – NORMCORE

To paraphrase the indomitable Miranda Priestly…”Simple silhouettes with other practical and basic pieces? Groundbreaking.” But somewhere around 2013 with so much over-the-top branding, monogramming and all around ostentatious clothing and accessories, the fashion pendulum swung. People began desiring ‘normal-looking’ clothing. Staple piece items that were quality made, comfortable and not showy. If that sounds like we’re talking about the post-pandemic years too, you’re not wrong. The 2023 take on this was to kick things up a notch, a la the “quiet luxury” trend. This is already seeing itself replaced with a more balanced, low key but luxe approach that still focuses on a more staple piece silhouette, but doesn’t mind throwing in a little flourish of fun.

Mott & Bow’s premium crafted cashmere crew is a great example of this. Crafted from premium cashmere, the silhouette is timeless and the creamy color will lend itself to anything in your closet. And because they are a direct-to-consumer brand, the price point is quite approachable.

Mott & Bow, Cashmere Raglan Crew $169

These very cool legging pants from Ellen Tracy also have that big staple piece energy, but elevated thanks to touches of faux leather trim pockets and side pin-striping.

Ellen Tracy, Pocket Detail Legging $44.50

We’d agree this was one of the more polarizing trends, but no one can deny – sock boots are back. While many designers really took the “sock” part and ran with it, the 2023 versions are definitely more boot focused. Look for all the easy stretch we loved, but with way more ankle support…something we can all agree is a good idea.

Nina, Cintia2 Black Stretch Dress Boot $84.50 (on Sale NOW from $169)

Finally – were belt bags ever really out of style? But these aren’t your overly logo’ed, over-the-top embellished versions. Expect high quality leathers with straightforward crafting and of course, that normcore practicality.

Hobo Bags, Juno Belt Bag in Silk Napa Leather $158

 

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