Eunyu Oh, Writer

In fashion, history definitely repeats itself. On social media platforms like TikTok and Pinterest, fashion trends from past decades have regained popularity and are now “trendy”. Styles like Punk from the 70s, Y2K from the 2000s, Bohemian from the 60s and 70s, and Rocker Chic from the 50s are a few of the styles that have found a new life on social media platforms.

Punk

“Too fast to live too young to die” and “No Future”— these two slogans defined the Punk movement of the 1970s, which was fueled by provocation and rebellion against established society due to the rising unemployment of young people in Britain. Punk fashion symbolizes the rebellion of teens decades ago and is now being loved by teenagers who are fascinated by punk rock culture. Tartan patterns, stripes, damaged knitwear, and leather textures are symbols of punk fashion, mostly inspired by Vivienne Westwood, the stylist of a punk rock band “Sex Pistols”. 

Punk fashion often used nails and safety pins as accessories— many pinned safety pins on leather jackets or used them as earrings. To achieve the “punk look”, it’s common to wear purposefully ripped and damaged clothes. 

Punk items like tartan skirts, leather boots, leather jackets, ripped and studded clothing, and safety pins accessories are now popular items.

Y2K

Y2K fashion was popular during the late 90s and early 2000s. Celebrities like Britney Spears and Paris Hilton were known for sporting the style. Cropped tees, baggy pants, low-rise flare jeans, bedazzled logos, and kitsch accessories were essential elements of the style. Early 2000s fashion are well depicted in movies and tv series like “Mean Girls”, “Skins”, “Freaky Friday”, and “Gossip Girl”. Von Dutch trucker hats and Juicy Couture tracksuits were wanted and coveted items. 

Nowadays, you’ll find teens wearing Von-Dutch trucker hats, Dior saddlebags, Juicy Couture tracksuits, and unique gems from thrift stores to emulate the Y2K look.

Bohemian

Bohemian fashion originated from Bohemians, which was a counterculture that appeared after the French Revolution in France led by poor artists who opposed society’s system. The Bohemian style grew in popularity during the 60s and 70s thanks to the “hippie” and “flower child” movement. Bohemian fashion is known for its effortless and relaxed looks with loose-fitted clothing items. Natural fabrics, retro patterns, neutral and warm colors, and excessive accessories are essential elements of the style. 

On social media, Bohemian style is now also called “fairy grunge”. Teenagers, these days, often wear Dr. Martens boots with an earth-toned midi skirt, crop top, crochet cardigan, finalizing the outfit with excessive jewelry to recreate the Bohemian look.  

Rocker Chic

Rocker Chic style is a feminine version of rocker style which was worn by Rock ‘n Roll stars. This unique style has not changed since the 1950s– when Rock ‘n Roll music gained popularity.

Characteristics of the Rocker Chic style are leather, distressed denim, black and neutral colors, silver-colored accessories and jewelry, and graphic t-shirts. Distressed clothing items such as ripped stockings, cut-up jeans, and cut-up tops are commonly worn. Rocker Chic fashion is usually accompanied by smoky, dark eye makeup and dark-toned lipstick.

The rocker fashion style has a philosophy of going against the rules and regulations of society. I, personally, recommend this style for people with a rebellious attitude and who try to express themselves through fashion.

Overall, all of these styles were used by teens of the past to express their individuality— and are now being used by teens, now, for the same reason. Whether it’s the rebelliousness of the Punk style, the pizzazz of the Y2K style, the earthiness of the Bohemian style, or the edginess of the Rocker Chic style— there is bound to be something for almost everyone. I strongly recommend exploring styles of the past, such as these, to anyone interested in finding new ways to express themself.