Bringing Back Y2K Trend: The Most Iconic Denim Looks for 2025

Whether you’re totally excited to embrace the early 2000s again or feeling personally attacked by its comeback (because, let’s be real, you already lived through it), there’s no denying that Y2K fashion has made a massive return. So many of today’s biggest trends trace right back to that era, and love it or hate it, the influence isn’t fading anytime soon.

Sorry… or you’re welcome, but Y2K style is here to stay—it’s just evolving. In 2025, the aesthetic has grown up from its bold, risqué roots into something a little more refined. Sure, we’re still seeing plenty of low-rise waistlines and bold pops of color, but instead of the over-the-top, flashy looks that come to mind when you think of early 2000s fashion, today’s take is a bit more muted, romantic, and even a little edgy. 

One of the biggest Y2K clothing making waves right now? Denim. It’s not just about your classic jeans anymore; denim is showing up in every possible form—skirts, corsets, accessories, and even phone cases (yes, really). If you’re looking to dive into the Y2K denim revival, here are five must-have pieces and how to style them.

1. Denim Pleated Skirt – The Ultimate Y2K Throwback

If there’s one Y2K piece that instantly takes me back, it’s the denim pleated skirt. It’s flirty, fun, and pairs perfectly with just about anything. Whether you’re going for a casual daytime look or dressing up for a night out, this skirt is a wardrobe essential.

How to Wear It:

• Pair it with a Y2K baby tee (bonus points for a graphic or rhinestone design) and platform sneakers for that effortless early 2000s vibe.
• Throw on some knee-high socks and chunky boots for a more edgy, grunge-inspired take.
• Layer it with a cropped cardigan or a faux fur-trimmed jacket for the ultimate Y2K aesthetic.

If you’re looking for the perfect denim pleated skirt, CherryKitten has some of the cutest styles right now!

2. Corset Denim – A Stylish Upgrade

Y2K was all about bold, body-hugging silhouettes, and denim corsets are bringing that energy back in the best way. This trend is the perfect mix of sexy and structured, giving major pop star vibes from the early 2000s (think Britney and Christina).

How to Wear It:

• Go full denim-on-denim with matching low-rise jeans or a Y2K skirt.
• Layer it over a mesh top or a Y2K skirts for a cool, layered effect.
• Keep it simple with baggy cargo pants and strappy heels for an effortlessly chic look.

CherryKitten has a killer selection of denim corsets that give just the right amount of throwback without looking costume-y.

3. Denim Bucket Hat – The Accessory You Didn’t Know You Needed

If you weren’t rocking a bucket hat in the early 2000s, did you even live through the era? This trend is back and better than ever, and a denim bucket hat is the ultimate way to top off your Y2K-inspired outfit.

How to Wear It:

• Pair it with y2k baby tees and baggy jeans for a casual, streetwear-inspired look.
• Wear it with a denim pleated skirt and knee-high boots for a festival-ready fit.
• Add some tinted sunglasses and hoop earrings for the full 2000s effect.

Trust me, once you add a denim bucket hat to your collection, you won’t want to take it off!

4. Denim Phone Case – Because Accessories Matter

Okay, this one might sound a little unexpected, but hear me out—denim phone cases are having a serious moment. With Y2K fashion taking over, it only makes sense that even our phones are getting in on the trend.

How to Style It:

• Coordinate with a denim corset or Y2K shirts for a full monochrome moment.
• Match it with a cute Y2K baby tee and mini shoulder bag for that early 2000s aesthetic.
• Add some charm straps or stickers to personalize your case even more.

5. Low-Rise Denim

Okay, we can’t talk about Y2K without mentioning low-rise jeans. They’re the quintessential Y2K piece, and they’re back in a big way. But this time around, it’s all about finding the right fit and styling them in a more modern way. Pair them with a cropped top or a baby tee (again, CherryKitten has some amazing options!) and some chunky sneakers or boots. You can also add a belt to cinch your waist and create a more flattering silhouette. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different washes and styles of low-rise jeans to find the perfect pair for you.

And speaking of finding the perfect pieces, I recently discovered CherryKitten, and they have the cutest Y2K clothing. Seriously, from baby tees to y2k skirts and everything denim, they’ve got it all. Their stuff is trendy, affordable, and great quality. So, if you’re looking to build your Y2K wardrobe, CherryKitten is definitely worth checking out.