The year is 2010, your friends have just text your Blackberry to ask if you’re going clubbing so you instantly get out your LBD and caged heels. I was 20 years old back then, so this is of course exactly what I would be doing at the weekend. My wardrobe consisted mainly of Topshop skinny jeans that I had to lay on the floor to wriggle into, leather jackets and bodycon dresses (again, all super tight) and stacks of statement jewellery that would be piled on at once.
While heading out for 79p drinks in Northampton at University is a thing of the past, I can say that 2023 does feel the most similar—fashion-wise—to this memorable time in my life. Firstly, the disk waist belt (you know the one) is back, and even though I loved it in the early noughties, I never thought it would have a resurgence. When it comes to necklaces, statement pendant, chain and bead styles are key this season. Leather jackets and cardigans are back as the coolest cover-ups and denim shorts are having a moment—even if they’re not the hotpants formally worn by Beyoncé, Kate Moss and co.
Here are the 7 2010s fashion trends that will always back around, and where you can shop them right now.
Style Notes: Let’s face it, Victoria Beckham has (and always will be) the poster girl for the LBD since being Posh Spice. Bandeau mini dresses are back in a big way so no doubt you’ve seen a similar style on Instagram recently. I’ll pass on the thigh-high boots this time around, though.
This is very VB.
Everything about this is just so very chic.
Does it get any more fabulous than a 16Arlington feather dress? I think not.
Style Notes: A night out in 2010 wouldn’t be complete without a large, hello-look-at-me necklace. Statement accessories were key, and 2023 is seeing a lot of styles making a comeback. Rope necklaces with big pendants, chunky chains and bold beads are some of the styles to look out for.
Cord necklaces are big news right now.
I’m obsessed with the Capsule collection at Mango—this necklace included.
Beaded necklace are also having a moment right now.
Style Notes: A shoulder-robed cardigan—how very 2010. Instead of a jacket or coat, cardigans were the cover-up du jour, in particular, cable knit styles. And who doesn’t love a cosy cardie now? They’re an autumn favourite to wear with baggy jeans and trainers.
I can imagine Alexa Chung wearing this now.
A chunky knit so good, it comes in seven other colours.
A cashmere cardigan with cable knit detail? I’m sold.
Style Notes: Everyone from Beyoncé to Kate Moss sported super short denim hot pants back in 2010. For a festival with boots or a night out with tights or leggings (yes, really), they were a firm favourite. This season, you’ll have seen ripped styles make a return along with longline Bermuda iterations.
Raey is second to none when it comes to denim.
Ecru denim always looks more chic than bright white.
Yep, ripped denim is also back!
Style Notes: In 2010, you wouldn’t leave the house without a skintight leather jacket in tow. Ashanti styled hers with matching (equally as tight) leggings and peep-toe heeled boots—another mini trend. Leather is back this year in the form of buckled bikers and sleek minimalist jackets.
If you want the 2010 vibe then opt for a more fitted cropped style.
Minimalists, you’ll love this fuss-free jacket.
This distressed style is very 2023.
Style Notes: If you were a teenager or adult throughout this year, you will most likely have owned Topshop Jamie jeans in all colours. And when I think of the skinniest styles, I will always instantly relate them to Kate Moss. The super wore hers with a tank top, low-slung belt and boucle jacket (also back this year) but you’ll most likely see them worn now with slouchier sweaters and blazers.
Kate Moss would have definitely wear these.
These come in not one, not two but five different lengths.
ASOS is always a go-to when it comes to skinny jeans all year round.
Style Notes: Along with the statement necklace, no doubt you would add some form of belt. Waist styles were key throughout the early noughties, and I for one had a whole collection in all colours to wear with every single outfit. Including the disk belt, which to my surprise, is now being worn once again and found on the high street at the likes of Urban Outfitters.
Never did I ever think I would see the return of the disk belt. But it’s back.
