12 Trends From the 2000s That Should Stay in the Past
The 2000s gave us bold fashion, tech, and pop culture moments — but not everything from that decade deserves a comeback.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 4 min read
The early 2000s were full of daring styles and unforgettable trends that defined a generation. From shiny clothes to strange beauty habits, people weren’t afraid to experiment — sometimes a little too much. While the decade gave us plenty of nostalgia, some trends are best left in the past where they belong.
1. 1. Low-Rise Jeans
Lion Hirth on Wikimedia Commons
These jeans sat dangerously low on the hips and were paired with short tops that showed midriffs everywhere. They might have been trendy, but they were also uncomfortable and unforgiving. Many people spent years tugging them up or layering tank tops to feel covered. Fashion today values comfort and confidence, and that’s a welcome change.
2. 2. Frosted Lip Gloss
Haleyface on Wikimedia Commons
In the 2000s, shiny, icy lips were the ultimate beauty statement. The frosted look was everywhere — in magazines, red carpets, and high school hallways. Unfortunately, the effect often looked more sticky than stylish. Today’s makeup trends favor softer, natural shades that don’t sparkle like foil.
3. 3. Over-Plucked Eyebrows
odder on Wikimedia Commons
Thin, drawn-on eyebrows were a must in the early 2000s. People tweezed them into pencil lines, thinking it looked chic. Many learned too late that brows don’t always grow back easily. Now, full and natural brows have thankfully replaced that painful mistake.
4. 4. Velour Tracksuits
Wikimedia Commons
Juicy Couture made velour tracksuits the unofficial uniform of 2000s celebrities. They were shiny, colorful, and covered in rhinestones or logos. While comfy, they were also over-the-top and often looked more like pajamas. Athleisure today is much sleeker and far more wearable.
5. 5. Trucker Hats
Iainf on Wikimedia Commons
Made famous by Ashton Kutcher and every early reality TV star, trucker hats were once considered peak cool. They had mesh backs, big logos, and bold colors. The trend exploded fast — and faded just as quickly. Some fashion memories are better left behind the wheel.
6. 6. Layered Tank Tops
Torval on Wikimedia Commons
Wearing two or three tank tops in different colors was a signature 2000s look. The goal was to create contrast, but it often just looked bulky and mismatched. It was a trend that screamed “middle school style.” Simpler, cleaner outfits have thankfully taken their place.
7. 7. Chain Wallets
Wikimedia Commons
Chain wallets dangled from jeans and were supposed to look edgy or rebellious. They were popular with skaters and punk-inspired teens. In reality, they were noisy and a little impractical for everyday use. The minimalist wallets of today make far more sense.
8. 8. Tiny Sunglasses
Pat David on Wikimedia Commons
Celebrities wore ultra-small sunglasses that barely covered their eyes. They looked stylish in paparazzi photos but were useless against the sun. It was one of those trends that valued appearance over function. Big, protective shades have since taken over — and for good reason.
9. 9. Ed Hardy Everything
karindalziel on Wikimedia Commons
Ed Hardy shirts covered in tattoo designs were once a massive trend. Bright colors, glitter, and skulls made them impossible to miss. For a while, every celebrity had one. The brand defined flashy excess, and most people agree that era should stay buried.
10. 10. Excessive Hair Gel
BGN-WMCO on Wikimedia Commons
Spiky, stiff hair was the signature style for many guys in the 2000s. The more gel, the better — even if it made hair feel like plastic. It was a look inspired by boy bands and early MTV icons. These days, subtle styling wins over crunchy hair every time.
11. 11. Flip Phones with Charms
Shinji on Wikimedia Commons
Before smartphones, flip phones ruled — and decorating them with dangling charms was a must. The trinkets were cute but constantly got tangled or broken. People treated their phones like fashion accessories instead of tools. While flip phones have made a small comeback, the charms can stay gone.
12. 12. Denim on Denim
RUBA Fashion Co Ltd on Wikimedia Commons
Wearing denim jackets, jeans, and sometimes even denim handbags all at once was peak 2000s fashion. The “Canadian tuxedo” became infamous after several celebrity appearances. It was bold, loud, and often clashed horribly. Today’s fashion keeps denim, but thankfully, in moderation.