14 Cringe-Worthy Trends We All Secretly Miss
These once-embarrassing trends somehow still live rent-free in our memories and maybe in our closets, too.
- Daisy Montero
- 4 min read
We rolled our eyes at them back then and pretend to cringe now, but let’s be honest — some of these trends still have a grip on us. As much as we claim we have moved on, something about them keeps pulling us back. Maybe it’s nostalgia, maybe it’s chaos, but it’s definitely unforgettable.
1. The Obsession with Velour Tracksuits
PD on Wikimedia Commons
Matching velour tracksuits made everyone feel like a low-key celebrity. They were comfy, colorful, and often came with rhinestone logos across the back. We still think about those Juicy Couture days whenever we reach for something cozy.
2. Layering Tank Tops Like a Sandwich
sunshinedw on Wikimedia Commons
Two tanks in contrasting colors? That was peak fashion. It made zero sense in terms of temperature or function, but we wore them like our lives depended on it.
3. Tying Your Shirt in a Side Knot
Photo By: Kaboompics.com on Pexels
A side knot made any oversized shirt feel intentional. It was a quick fix for looking “cute but casual” and somehow made gym class shirts feel stylish. Admit it, you tried it at least once.
4. Frosted Tips and Chunky Highlights
Toglenn on Wikimedia Commons
Hair that looked like it had been dipped in bleach was the goal. The contrast was loud and bold, and we absolutely loved it. Whether it was intentional or not, that streaky look defined a whole era.
5. Giant Studded Belts Over Everything
AA’s Photography on Pexels
Belts weren’t for holding up pants anymore; they were full-blown accessories. We wore them over tunics, dresses, and even long tank tops. The more studs and metal, the better.
6. Duck Lips in Every Selfie
Anna Nekrashevich on Pexels
Before filters and ring lights, we had the duck face. It was equal parts flirty and ridiculous, and we all committed to it hard. You probably still have one buried deep in your photo album.
7. Fingerless Gloves Just for Style
Artem Korsakov on Pexels
They served no purpose but gave you “edgy” points instantly. Whether you were channeling Avril Lavigne or just bored in class, fingerless gloves were the move. They had no business looking that cool.
8. Platform Flip-Flops That Wobbled
Ceddie2000 on Wikimedia Commons
One wrong step and you were going down, but that did not stop us. Platform flip-flops were chunky, clunky, and weirdly chic. Every step felt like a balancing act in the name of fashion.
9. Writing on Your Converse
MIKI Yoshihito from Sapporo City,Hokkaido., JAPAN on Wikimedia Commons
Scribbling on your sneakers turned them into a diary. Lyrics, crush names, or random doodles — we made those shoes our own. They were scuffed, dirty, and full of personality.
10. Tie-Dye Everything
Steven Falconer from Niagara Falls, Canada on Wikimedia Commons
The messier the better. We turned every white shirt into a swirling rainbow like we were preparing for a music festival. Even if it stained your hands, the end result always felt worth it.
11. Wearing Sunglasses Indoors
Dmcccomms on Pexels
No sun in sight, but those shades stayed on. It was mysterious, dramatic, and sometimes made us bump into furniture. Nothing said cool like dark lenses in a dark room.
12. DIY Bleach-Dyed Jeans
Ivan Samkov on Wikimedia Commons
We turned our bathtubs into chemistry labs for the sake of fashion. The splotchier the better, and mistakes just added “character.” These jeans were loud, proud, and totally chaotic.
13. Myspace Poses in the Mirror
Dulce Panebra on Pexels
The arm-angle-head-tilt combo was essential. Whether the flash blew out your face or not, you posted it anyway. It was all about getting that iconic “scene kid” energy just right.
14. Wearing Too Many Bracelets at Once
Aj Collins Artistry on Pexels
More bracelets meant more style. Between jelly bracelets, woven ones, and friendship bands, your arms looked like a souvenir shop. You rattled every time you moved, and you loved it.