AS 2000-10 fashion trends continue making a strong comeback in 2026, Granger High School teachers who experienced the original era reflect on the iconic styles, footwear, and cultural influences that defined early Y2K wardrobe choices.
For many teachers, early ‘00s fashion centered on distinct denim styles, layering, and bold accessories.
“I had this jean outfit,” Laurel Jensen, a French teacher, said. “It was like low-rise jeans with a jean jacket — it had flowers, and it was bedazzled. I’ve worn long socks and those windbreaker jackets, like how they have really big puffy jackets.”
Winter says that bootcut low-rise jeans, tank tops with short cropped jackets, platform shoes, boots, and butterfly hair clips were quintessential elements of the daily high school look.
Other faculty members say that while Y2K fashion favored bold aesthetics, later decades prioritized
comfort.
“I was into ‘10s fashion because it was more focused on comfort and a more modern style,” Mariah Holman, a geography teacher, said.
“Y2K culture blended a glossy, futuristic visual identity with playful elements. Bright colors and novelty accessories gave early ‘00s fashion a youthful, optimistic feel, while emerging social platforms allowed celebrity outfits to reach mainstream audiences quickly. Today, resale platforms, social media, and runway shows drive the current resurgence, bringing ‘00s nostalgia to a new generation of students,” as stated on the runway7fashion.com website.
When asked if they miss the era, several Granger teachers expressed fondness for the unique culture of the ‘00s.
“I miss the ‘00 s— they were so fun,” Mary Winter, a freshman success teacher, said. “I just have always loved fashion. I would want to go back and wear the same clothes.”Jensen says her nostalgia extends beyond clothing to early personal technology.
“I miss my flip phone because nowadays I’m getting more distracted on my smartphone,” Jensen said.
Looking at current 2026 trends, educators see strong parallels between today’s student wardrobes and original Y2K staples. Winter says her favorite returning items include platform shoes and bootcut jeans, which she still wears.
“Low-rise jeans are coming back, and I’m not too happy about it, because they were uncomfortable,” Jensen said. “However, I am excited that jelly shoes are coming back.”
