The 2000s gave us so many wonderful things — our beloved rom-coms, low-rise jeans, peak reality television (and so on). But there’s one thing you have to keep in mind when recreating this iconic era, and it can instantly take your look to the next level.
Of course, I’m talking about accessories. They can make or break your outfit — everyone knows that (or at least, they should…). Fear not, everybody, because I’m breaking down the Top 6 Best Accessories from the 2000s — a little nostalgic deep-dive — plus some extra inspo for how to style them today. Let’s go!
#6: Butterfly Clips — Soft Girl Magic
If you’re into that whole soft girl vibe, these are an absolute must. They scream whimsical, girly-girl-core, and everybody knows it! Just look at stars like Britney Spears in the 2000s — it totally matched her youthful and playful appeal. And the great news is… you can still wear them today! They’re perfect for casual looks, which means you can rock them at school, at lunch with friends, the beach, and more.
Ways to style them:
- Make little braids on the front pieces of your hair and put a clip at the start of each.
- Wear your hair down, take the front pieces, and pin them back with a butterfly clip on each side (once on each side or several times to form a cute “hairband” effect).
- Put your hair in a bun or ponytail and place clips around the bun and on your head.
#5: Trucker Hats — Sporty Meets Chic
These were the it-girl accessory of the early 2000s — think Paris Hilton, Nicole Richie, Lindsay Lohan. They blew up because they were the perfect mix of sporty yet hip. The chicest versions? Pink ones (obviously) or hats with cute quotes, sequins, glitter, or rhinestones.
Ways to style them:
- On a hot summer day with a tank top or baby tee and a mini denim skirt.
- On your way to the gym with athletic wear (workout set, yoga pants, or a tracksuit for the most authentic Y2K vibe).
- With your hair in two braids or a low bun and a pair of cute tinted sunglasses (more on those next!).
#4: Tinted Sunglasses — A Pop of Playfulness
The 2000s were all about colors and playful style. What better way to add fun to your outfit than with colored sunglasses? Bonus points if they’re shaped like butterflies or hearts. Since they don’t offer real sun protection, you can wear them day or night, indoors or outdoors.
Ways to style them:
- Keep makeup minimal so the sunglasses are the star.
- Pair them with a big bag and some jeans.
- Customize them with rhinestones for an extra glam effect.
#3: Chunky Hoop Earrings — Go Big or Go Home
In the 2000s, chunky accessories were the norm — no minimalist jewelry in sight. Accessories existed to enhance your already extravagant outfit, hence the chunky hoops. Iconic singers like JLo and Destiny’s Child wore them constantly, and they totally completed their cool, girly vibe.
Ways to style them:
- Pair with both casual and glam outfits.
- For a playful twist, choose hoops shaped like hearts or stars.
- Try colors and prints — gold and silver are not the only options!
#2: Statement Belts — The McBling Staple
Belts in the 2000s weren’t just for holding your pants up — they were the main event. With sparkle, bold prints, rhinestones, and color, they could transform any look. There was practically no such thing as a low-rise jean without a belt.
Ways to style them:
- For a boho-meets-McBling night out.
- For authenticity: low-rise jeans, tinted glasses, mini purse, and a rhinestoned belt. No rhinestones? DIY them onto a plain belt.
- If you’re feeling shy about sparkle (why though?), pair with a basic outfit.
#1: Big Bags — Chic and Overpacked
I covered mini shoulder bags in my last post, but now we’re talking about their bigger sister. Carrying one of these says, “I’ve got places to be and important things to carry.” And honestly… who would lug a giant purse and ruin their back unless it was absolutely necessary? Uhm, now that i think of it, me. They’re just so chic.
Ways to style them:
- For errands or a full day out — even if it’s just full of makeup and snacks (essentials, obviously).
- With a formal work or school outfit (bonus: it holds heavy books and makes you stand out from boring-bag people).
- With an all-black outfit for that effortless “model off duty” vibe.
Look at you! You look like you came out of a 2000s magazine article. Which one? Best dressed. Tell me:
Which one was your favorite?
Which other ones should make a comeback?