M
illennials and Gen Zers, longing to enjoy the carefree days of their youth, have embraced the return of Y2K fashion with open arms. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have fueled the fire, allowing fashion lovers to share their Y2K-inspired outfits and creating a viral sensation that spreads like wildfire. In the midst of the fanfare, there’s one key element that defined Y2K fashion that has expectedly made a triumphant comeback: the big belt.
Big belts in the 2000s were more than just functional accessories. They were bold statement pieces that added a touch of glamor and attitude to any outfit. The big belt trend was all about cinching the waist and creating an hourglass figure, resulting in a visually striking silhouette. When it comes to styling big belts in a Y2K-inspired fashion, creativity knows no bounds.
Currently, there are visible differences between the big belts of the late ’90s and today. Their differences come in how they look and the materials they’re made from. In the late ’90s, the big belts were wide and attention-grabbing. They had bold designs with details like studs, rhinestones, or big buckles, and often featured shiny materials like leather or vinyl. Back then, fashion was all about being bold and expressing yourself, and the big belts trend was a key part of that.
Nowadays, big belts come in different widths and designs. They can be wide or narrower, and their styles vary from simple to more detailed. In addition, today’s options can be made of leather, fabric, or other materials, and they may have different textures or finishes. In the current ’20s, where fashion is more minimalistic and sleek, big belts are often used as statement pieces without overpowering the look.
Fashion trends repeat over time, and the revival of Y2K fashion today shows how certain elements resuscitate but with some changes to fit the current fashion mood.
There’s almost no wrong way to win a big-belted look this season. Whether you opt for the oversized belt to add definition to an oversized-blazer ensemble for a polished take or you leverage it to bring the vibe to your denim offering, there are numerous ways to make a hit with big belts. Additionally, as with any trend, you can weave your personality into your get-up to make it more authentic, and prominent belts also wield this option. For instance, you can take a cue from Lori Harvey and rock your big belt across your chest to hold up your sleeveless jumpsuit. Who says a belt’s only place is on your waist?
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Photo: Brianna Capozzi via @goodamerican/Instagram
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