Latest news with #EdHardy
Newsweek
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Gen Z Escapes to the Past Through Y2K Music, Movies and Fashion
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek Illustration It's sometimes hard to believe that the turn of the millennium was a quarter of a century ago. In many ways, life felt vastly different back then—the internet was still in its relative infancy, phones were used to make calls, and X was just a letter in the alphabet. It was an age before smartphones and social media, the war on terror hadn't begun, and global economies were yet to be impacted by the financial crash. Those days feel worlds away and yet Y2K has made a resounding comeback among younger generations. Whether it's fashion, movies, TV or music, many people from Generation Z (those born between 1997 and 2012) are returning to that era and making it au courant once again. New installments of films like Happy Gilmore, Jurassic Park and Freaky Friday return this summer, as TV favorites like Friends and The O.C. attract younger viewers on streaming services. Atmosphere during Von Dutch Ranch 2025, presented by Tequila Don Julio on April 25, 2025 in Indio, California. Atmosphere during Von Dutch Ranch 2025, presented by Tequila Don Julio on April 25, 2025 in Indio, California. Tiffany Rose/Getty for Von Dutch & Tequila Don Julio Music from the era is seeping back into the mainstream as well, with Nirvana's You Know You're Right featuring in The Last of Us, British band Oasis playing reunion gigs to sold-out stadiums and American rock band Creed, whose hit "Higher" has become a favorite again at sporting events, headlining a Summer of '99 and Beyond Cruise concert series next spring. Fashion brands synonymous with the early 2000s—Von Dutch and Ed Hardy—have become staples again, butterfly hair clips and tiny sunglasses are must-haves, and colorful eyeshadow is back in. Even Tamagotchis—the pocket-sized digital pets of Y2K childhoods—are back, turning Gen Z backpacks and belt loops into nostalgic nods to the turn of the century. Riding the same wave, Britney Spears has found renewed popularity with Gen Z in recent years, culminating in May this year when The Singles Collection reached 200 weeks on the U.K. Albums Chart. Gen X may be a relatively small demographic, compared with the sizable populations of boomers and millennials, but the impact of this generation's heyday has captured the imaginations of Gen Z. Raven Baker, a social and community lead at Adolescent Content, who researches Gen Z habits, told Newsweek that for this generation that constantly lives in a digital world, there's something novel yet attainable about Y2K. "I think it's partly escapism as they can distract themselves from current woes, whether that's school, work, friendships or parents. It allows them to indulge in something that's so different from today," Baker said. Children show their "Tamagotchi" electronic pet on October 25, 2017 in Paris, France. Tamagotchi is a virtual electronic animal which means "cute little egg" and simulates the life of an animal. Twenty years after its... Children show their "Tamagotchi" electronic pet on October 25, 2017 in Paris, France. Tamagotchi is a virtual electronic animal which means "cute little egg" and simulates the life of an animal. Twenty years after its creation, the Japanese company Bandai reissues the famous limited edition toy that is available today in France. Tamagotchi will be available in the United States on November 5, 2017. More Chesnot/Getty Was Life Better Back Then? A report by the American Psychological Association found that young adults are overwhelmed by stress, with many claiming a much higher stress level than older generations. So is it any wonder they want to hark back to what seems like an easier time? It helps that many relics of that era are readily available, whether it's entire TV series on streaming platforms, or celebrity photos from back in the day going viral on TikTok. Lily Todos (@lilytodos) shares 2000s-inspired outfits and recreates iconic movie looks on the platform. Todos, 25, from the U.K., told Newsweek that throwback fashion has become a "form of escapism" for her because the world seemed like a "better place back then"— fashion styles were more varied, the quality was better and people were "living for real life," which created authenticity, Todos said. (L-R) Charli D'Amelio, Carrie Berk, Lilliana Ketchman, and Indi Star attend the Tamagotchi Uni Launch Party hosted by Charli D'Amelio on June 27, 2023 in New York City. (L-R) Charli D'Amelio, Carrie Berk, Lilliana Ketchman, and Indi Star attend the Tamagotchi Uni Launch Party hosted by Charli D'Amelio on June 27, 2023 in New York City. Theo Wargo/Getty Gen Z has grown up in an age of social media where every step they make is captured and shared for an audience. In Baker's view, they yearn for a time when people could make mistakes and experiment without the fear of going viral or, even worse, being canceled. "I think there's a desire to be uninhibited, to not feel judged, and to not have it recorded forever on someone's digital footprint," Baker said. "We're living in a surveillance era where even friends can monitor you and see what you're doing. If someone catches you doing something bad, the instinct is to post it online. Whereas people enjoy the early aughts because there was such a lack of that." As younger generations view Y2K through a media lens, it's easy to romanticize and perhaps sanitize those years. But it wasn't all low-rise jeans, jelly sandals and meeting for coffee at Central Perk. Ben Lisle, an associate professor of American studies at Colby College in Maine, is keen not to erase the difficulties of that time. He told Newsweek that viewing the early aughts as a golden age would mean "historical erasure" of what was happening. Before 2000, there was anticipation about what the turn of the millennium would bring, and while it gave way to technological advancements—the iPod in 2001 and Facebook in 2004—it was also a dark time for many. Lives were forever changed by the war on terror in the aftermath of 9/11, the devastation of the Indian Ocean tsunami in December 2004 and Hurricane Katrina in 2005, before the global financial crisis from December 2007 led to the Great Recession. Lisle told Newsweek he is often "surprised at how little" his students know about such major historical events. Marina Riekkinen. Marina Riekkinen. Courtesy Marina Riekkinen For Lisle, this is an example of philosopher Fredric Jameson's concept of pastiche, referring to the imitation and mimicry that pays homage to bygone styles or language. Lisle argued that we've become somewhat detached from the past and our connection to it "has been transformed into hollowed-out stylization." What Does This Say About Today's Society? Like the generations who came before them, Gen Z are learning to navigate the world and trying to work out what future they want. But, unlike their predecessors, they're doing it in a time of information overload with the burden of social media and artificial intelligence. While health and financial issues are the top concerns for younger Americans, they are also grappling with personal safety, human rights, loneliness and climate change, with anxiety and depression some of the most prominent mental health issues, according to the National Institutes of Health. It doesn't get much better when looking ahead, either, as more than half of people think the American dream is no longer a possibility, according to an ABC/Ipsos poll. So, should we be surprised that young people spend so much time looking toward the past? Much of the research that Baker has done for Adolescent Content has shown that Gen Z has "heightened anxiety," causing a significant lack of confidence. Not being assured of who they are is what makes them retreat in time, Baker suggested. She told Newsweek: "This generation has always been online. They were iPad babies and then they had smartphones from a young age. Constantly being online causes a lack of self-confidence because they're always comparing to what someone else has. How can you ever ground yourself in true individuality if you're constantly questioning who you are?" Teenage girls sit on a bench in a city courtyard and use their smartphones. Autumn day. Teenage girls sit on a bench in a city courtyard and use their smartphones. Autumn day. iStock Editorial/Getty Despite the negative impacts, 36 percent of U.S. teens say they spend too much time on social media, and 54 percent say it would be hard to give up, the Pew Research Center reports. Not only has Gen Z grown up online, but they also came of age during a time of cancel culture. For Baker, this marks an important shift which instilled a fear among young people about being called out. "During the pandemic, when everyone was stuck inside watching people get called out, fired and tomatoed in the digital town square, it sent a clear message to Gen Z: Don't share your honest opinion and don't be transparent with strangers," Baker said. What's With the Fascination? Todos certainly isn't the only person who has cultivated a social media following by recreating styles from the 2000s. Indeed, the hashtag #y2k has more than 4.1 million posts on TikTok alone. What Todos loves so much about clothes from that time is the detailing (think glitter, beading and diamanté). She told Newsweek that she thinks people are looking for "more detail with their clothes" now, following years of minimalism. The resurgence of Y2K styles may not be all too surprising, however, as fashion historian and author Robert Ossant explains that trends often occur in 20-year cycles. What makes this trend so attainable is conceivably the recency bias, but also the parallels between then and now. Ossant told Newsweek: "The early 2000s was a period of optimism and anxiety around emerging technologies. Now, with AI, people are feeling the same—will technology boost careers or create a future where young people are surplus to requirement? The styles and anxieties are aligned. "All reemerging trends play on nostalgia, so younger generations look back on Y2K and idealize it. They might prefer that era to their own and try to inhabit it through their style," he continued. Ossant believes Y2K fashion originated with designer Marc Jacobs in 1992 at Perry Ellis. He championed youth style and was inspired by grunge. Before long, street fashion started to influence catwalks, as Ossant said he took youth culture "from fringe to mainstream." The 15th Delhi Queer Pride Parade celebrated the LGBTQIA+ community along Barakhamba Road to Jantar Mantar, with participants chanting for equality and same-sex marriage. The event featured a variety of traditional and creative costumes, fostering... The 15th Delhi Queer Pride Parade celebrated the LGBTQIA+ community along Barakhamba Road to Jantar Mantar, with participants chanting for equality and same-sex marriage. The event featured a variety of traditional and creative costumes, fostering a strong sense of spirit and solidarity. More Uma Shankar sharma/Getty It was no longer about what the wealthy were wearing. As the dynamic continued to evolve into the early aughts, fashion was all about what young people were gravitating toward. "The style was go big or go home—bold colors, big plastic watches, ballooning parachute pants with tube tops. They took up space and expressed supreme confidence," Ossant said. Now, brands like Von Dutch and Juicy Couture have reestablished themselves as fashion staples. Miss Sixty, known for capri pants and double denim, named supermodel Bella Hadid as the face of its spring/summer 2025 line, a big coup for a brand that seemed to have gone out of style. Ossant suggested Gen Z are using nostalgic fashion to send a message. "It's Gen Z demanding to be seen, and because they continue to feel ignored, they are embracing the loud Y2K styles," Ossant said. How Is Media Feeding This? Movies and TV shows are also providing Gen Z with iconic Y2K references that are still relevant today. Streaming platforms have introduced new audiences to old shows. Marina Riekkinen, 21, has been heavily influenced by TV shows Gossip Girl and Sex and The City from the 2000s, telling Newsweek that she loves how characters "had their own unique style" back then. Those shows may have ended, but Riekkinen often recreates outfits that will live long in the memory. Her TikTok page (@marinariekkinen) is filled with ensembles that Serena van der Woodsen would be proud of. "The Y2K era highlighted individuality, boldness and self-expression through fashion, and that's what resonates with me the most. It wasn't about fitting in—it was about standing out," the Finnish influencer said. Part of the shows' appeal is that young people can watch them and "shrug off the heaviness of today's world," according to entertainment journalist, pop culture expert and film critic Tatyana Arrington. Company of modern informal youth at the festival, couple of girls use phone, youth mob in big city. Company of modern informal youth at the festival, couple of girls use phone, youth mob in big city. iStock Editorial/Getty Much of the early 2000s holds a mirror up to Gen Z's reality, making it feel attainable and authentic. Arrington, from the U.S., said: "As they think that the world is so dark and there's so much hate, they want to find pockets of joy. They look at these TV shows and interpret that as the promised future that was supposed to be theirs, but it's not." She doesn't believe it's coincidence that Y2K is back in vogue. No, she thinks it's a direct response to "the seriousness of today." There's a desire among audiences to embrace the early 2000s, and that doesn't just come from older content but new productions too. At present, Netflix's most streamed English-language show is Wednesday, a show about the fictional gothic character Wednesday Addams who featured in the 1991 movie The Addams Family. In 2024, it was announced that the much-loved 2000 sitcom Malcolm in the Middle would be rebooted, and Freakier Friday, a sequel to 2003's Freaky Friday, is due to be released this summer. Anne Hathaway is also reprising one of her most iconic roles, Princess Mia, in The Princess Diaries 3, more than 20 years after the first installment. If that wasn't enough, fans of the 2004 hit series Desperate Housewives rejoiced at the recent announcement of a spinoff titled Wisteria Lane. Like many others, Arrington loves rewatching the classics and remembering "the good old days." They're comfort shows for a reason, and while Gen Z might not have been around back then, they can romanticize what it was like through these formats. "The Y2K era was fun, and it allows them to step into a world where they feel welcomed and accepted," Arrington told Newsweek. "That was a joyous time, and they're just trying to bring some of that into the world we live in today."
Daily Mail
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mail
Millennials look away! Return of noughties fashion leaves older generations with 'PTSD' as Gen Z revive disc belts, bandage dresses and peplum tops
Millennials who lived through fashion fads of the 2000s have claimed they're suffering from 'PTSD' as the younger generations bring back noughties trends. The generation, which was born between approximately 1981 and 1996, have long been mocked by younger peers, known as Gen Z, for their fashion trends. But, as the fashion cycle makes another 360 degree turn, some of the very same trends for which Gen Z once mocked millennials are making their way back onto the high street - much to the dismay of the generation who lived through them the first time around. Trends like gypsy skirts paired with disc belts, Ed Hardy branded merchandise and peplum tops are officially back in fashion, with influencers and celebrities of all ages embracing them. In scenes reminiscent of 2009, Molly-Mae Hague, 26, was snapped wearing a black peplum top for New Year's Eve celebrations, whereas style icons Hailey Bieber, 28, and Nadia Bartel, 40, were seen proudly donning the controversial Capri pants. Even Gen Alpha seems fascinated by chunky belts after finding out Hollywood stars such as Kim Kardashian, Hayden Panettiere and Keira Knightley wore them to film festivals in their heyday. But many millennials argue that such 2000s trends should be left in the past where they belong. 'They make me feel old in my 30s,' said one TikTok viewer about Capri pants, while another described them as 'the work of the devil'. Gen Z have worked hard to ensure that fashion doesn't have to be uncomfortable by popularising baggy jeans, white trainers and the athleisure look... but it appears they're starting to warm to Millennial-core. Chunky belts It was an essential summer accessory in the noughties, to be paired with gypsy skirts, jeans, or linen trousers - and now the chunky disc belt appears to be making a comeback. Nina Dixon, the wife of the SpudBros founder, filmed her daughter in Primark holding up a burgundy studded disc belt, which many millennials will remember wearing in their school days in the 90s and early noughties. She told her mother that she wanted to purchase the accessory for her summer holiday which shocked Nina, who wore the accessory in her teenage years. She said to her daughter: 'You do realise that when we were about 14, that's what we used to wear. We thought that we were really cool and we've bullied them ever since that and now they've made this comeback and you're saying it's nice.' Boho fashion appears to be 'chic' again after it was seen at the Chloe catwalk at Paris Fashion Week, where the AW24 collection was awash with floaty white blouses, ruffled chiffon and fringed jackets. Many youngsters are now looking at role models Kate Moss and Sienna Miller for fashion inspiration, especially at the height of festival season. Nina said: 'I can't actually believe they've actually made a comeback. Nina's video has racked up over 115,000 likes on TikTok with over a thousand comments from people commenting their shock at how fast fashion cycles are 'I feel a bit of PTSD to tell you the truth, I'm not even going to lie.' Her daughter said she wanted to buy the belt and Nina remarked: 'They might go back around when you grow up.' She captioned the video: 'They were not lying when they said fashions come back around. I need to find a photo of me in one of these.' Nina's video has racked up over 115,000 likes on TikTok with over a thousand comments from people commenting their shock at how fast fashion cycles are. One wrote: 'I used to have every colour and style when I was a teen. I can't believe they are making a come back.' Another said: 'The trauma from the disc belt,' while a third penned: 'I didn't even like mine back then.' A fourth commented: 'Oh my God, no way are they back.' Capris Though they've long been perceived as unflattering, Capris are all the rage for the summer season in 2025. In recent months, they've been all over the runways, and have been worn by A-listers such as Hailey Bieber. The bottoms (also known as pedal pushers) are longer than shorts but shorter than trousers with a hemline that typically ends at the midcalf. With social media mavens making them look so good, it comes as no surprise that Stylight - world's largest search platform for fashion, beauty and design - has seen a 56 per cent uptick in demand for Capri pants. Capris were introduced in 1948 by designer Sonja de Lennart in Munich, Germany. Style icon Audrey Hepburn popularized the classic bottoms in 1954 when she wore them in her movie 'Sabrina.' Celebrities like Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly and Doris Day soon followed. Today, Capris can be found in a variety of trendy silhouettes and contemporary fabrics. Svita Sobol and Pernille Teisbaek both incorporated black Capri pants into their ensembles during Paris Fashion Week. For the Elie Saab show, Svita paired her loose-fitting bottoms with a fierce crocodile blazer flaunting her generous cleavage. Pernille Teisbaek wore black Capri pants with a matching turtleneck to Hermes and added pops of burgundy with her jacket, handbag and heels In May, Hailey Bieber rocked the returning trend as she stepped out in a very sunny New York. The model, 28, flashed a glimpse of her abs in a cropped £2,200 Miu Miu navy and grey silk jacket which she paired with navy Capri pants. But while Gen Z are fully embracing the trend, millennials are once again less convinced. One person wrote on Reddit: 'Fashion trend wise, I love all the throw back fashion, but I'll not be indulging in Capri pants again. 'A comedian back in the day used to say capris were women's way of asking 'for pants that make your legs look shorter, your butt look wider and your feet look bigger'. I'll be damned if that's not how I looked in every damn pair I had.' Another said: 'Cropped pants are the work of the devil lol.' A third added: 'I hate them, but wear what you want lol.' Others said: 'IMO they are not cute. They cut most people off at the absolute worst point'; 'They are unflattering on everyone'; 'They make me feel old in my 30s the same way they make 20 somethings feel fashionable and vintage.' Peplum Peplum tops were last popular in the early 2010s and were often seen as a staple part of a night out ensemble, often paired with skinny chinos, a blazer and chunky studded high heels. The style, comprising of a piece of ruffled fabric that spans the waistline of a garment, is seemingly making a resurgence in high street stores. This is much to the dismay of millennials who are shocked that the frilly item of clothing has completed a full fashion trend cycle already. Emma Fogarty, from Dublin, came across two peplum tops in a New Look store which were selling for £21.99 each. The retailer is selling the shirt in a couple of basic colours so they can be styled easily with other clothes. Stunned, she wrote: 'You're telling me that I have lived long enough to see the revival of the peplum top. Nahhhhh.' The clip has racked up almost one million views on TikTok, as many other horrified millennials shared their thoughts on its resurgence. One wrote: 'I'm not sure how I feel about these hahaha, used to wear them religiously.' Another penned: 'Oh I hated peplum first time around and at times, it was nigh impossible to find a top and dress that wasn't in that style.' A third said: 'Omg no! I'm 30 now but I used to be obsessed with these tops back in the day hahaha.' A fourth simply commented: 'Please not again.' Molly-Mae Hague was also seen wearing a bandeau peplum top as she celebrated New Year's Eve in December. The influencer, 25, donned a black floral rose chiffon embroidered Nadine Merabi Phoebe top which retails for £265. However, she opted to style it in more of a modern way, instead opting for a pair of wide legged trousers. Styling her long blonde tresses in a neat half up do, the former Love Island star accessorised with a gold clutch and matching chunky earrings. She was snapped partying the night away with footballer Luke Shaw and his wife Anouska. The resurgence has racked up almost one million views on TikTok , as many other horrified millennials shared their thoughts on its resurgence Peplum was also seen creeping into some fashion trends in 2023. The Princess of Wales, dubbed a style icon for many, donned a tailored floral Erdem skirt-suit at the Commonwealth Day service. But the style dates back to the early days of 500BC. The term peplum derives from the word 'peplos', meaning a tunic that is tied at the waist in Ancient Greek. During the 14th century, royals and those from wealthy families saw wearing clothes with fuller pleats as a sign of being rich. During the 1940s, Christian Dior also incorporated glamorous peplum hourglass silhouettes into designs. It then made a return again 40 years later in the 80s, where it was adored by Princess Diana. Ballet pumps Much to the horror of millennials battling plantar fasciitis, ballet pumps are back on the scene. Having had their come up in the early noughties, ballet flats were a staple wardrobe item for most across the UK - and are now making a comeback in the 2020s. Back in the noughties, the ballet pump was a footwear staple, with famous faces including the late Amy Whitehouse and supermodel Kate Moss often stepping out on the light shoes to hit the town. And in 2025, the trend appears to have returned; with Hollywood elite including Katie Holmes, Frankie Bridge and G ditching their beloved heels for flat shoes with little support. Meanwhile, 2023's New York Fashion Week seemed to signal the return of the trend as the ballet pump featured via Tibi, who crafted a luxe leather version of the pump, and in Milan, Fendi showed off flats with gold bracelets around the ankle. Shortly afterwards Kate Moss was seen wearing a sleek black pair with a trench coat while in NYC. Fellow fan Alexa Chung teamed hers with a striped shirt and blue denim recently while strolling in Notting Hill. But on social media, Millennials who have lived through the first fashion cycle of ballet pumps are warning younger generations to steer clear. On X, millennial Julie S. Lalonde wrote: 'Gen Z, please heed my warning: Ballet flats are coming back in style but do not go down this road. 'They might seem cute & practical, but you will stress about going to someone's house because the smell of your feet once you take those shoes off is KILLER.' After people began to respond saying 'just wear socks', Lalonde wrote back saying: 'Sure, but that doesn't change the plantar fasciitis, bunions, dropped arches and busted knees that those flat ass shoes with-no-arch-support will give you.' One X user quipped: 'If they're going to bring back our stinky shoes, can they at least choose Ugg boots next? It's the last time it was socially acceptable to leave your house in slippers.' Another voiced their own personal experience of bunions, writing: 'When I wear ballet flats or pumps without support for a walk, even a short 30 minute walk, the bunion starts to come back.' One critic summed up the shoe with a no holds barred approach, saying: 'No socks. Slip off every minute. No grip. Often ill fitting. No rain protection in this ENGLAND? We should have left these in the past.' When Love Island star Molly Mae Hague wore a pair of ballet shoes while posing in a café last year, fans could barely contain their horror. On TikTok, videos with #balletflats now have more than 277 million posts. Millennials were left horrified at the return of the ballet flat They wrote: 'No I'm sorry but I'm not going back to this trend everrrrrr!!!'; 'Loads of girls are gonna be appearing in these ballet shoes now,' 'My knees are f***ed now due to the ballet shoe era. Don't do it gals!!'; 'Plantar fasciitis. Just remember that before you all start buying ballet shoes'; 'Yeah, this ballet shoe trend Is defo not one I will be following. I have PTSD from them, my heels still haven't recovered.' Dr Robert Khorramian, a podiatrist in Santa Monica, California, previously told Who What Wear that the lack of support in ballet flats in fact makes them the worst shoe for foot health. Plantar fasciitis causes a stabbing pain in the bottom of the foot, close to the heel, which usually gets worse with the first few steps after waking up or from standing for long periods of time. MedScape estimates one million Americans visit doctors every year for plantar fasciitis. Wearing shoes without arch support can also worsen neuromas, a type of inflammation in the foot nerves and between the bones in the feet. This is also known as 'Morton's neuroma.' According to the Mayo Clinic, patients with neuromas in the feet may feel like they're standing on a pebble. Other signs of the condition include burning pain in the ball of the foot that radiates to the toes, and tingling or numbness in your toes. Wearing ballet flats for long periods of time can also lead to injuries such as shin splints and stress fractures due to repetitive stress and little arch support. A shin splint, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, causes pain along the tibia, or the shin bone, which runs in the front of the lower leg. Skinny jeans With a fit so tight they leave little to the imagination, skinny jeans are a style nightmare for many fashion fans. Though they've fallen out of fashion in recent years as Mom and Barrel styles have taken hold, the 2010s staple is now making a return in 2025. Not only were skinnies the star of the show on the runway during January's Paris Fashion Week, but A-listers including Taylor Swift, Meghan Markle and Claudia Winkleman are all playing their role in leading the skinny jean revolution. On TikTok, members of Gen Z have dug out the old fashion staple from deep within their closets, firmly declaring that 'skinny jeans are so back'. Once beloved by everyone from boyband One Direction to reality stars and even members of the Royal Family, skinny jeans faced little competition when they first become popular in 2005 and throughout the 2010s. In more recent years however, their unrivalled popularity has waned - compounded by people wanting a more 'slouchy' style while staying at home during the pandemic. They're now set to be the surprise dominant trend of 2025 - much to the chagrin of some who have bemoaned that the trousers are both 'ugly' and 'uncomfortable'. Speaking to MailOnline, UK personal stylist and fashion expert Lisa Talbot said: 'Skinny jeans are making a comeback in 2025, largely driven by the natural cycle of fashion trends and the influence of Gen Z rediscovering 2010s nostalgia. Skinny jeans were a staple for Claudia Winkleman while presenting the latest series of The Traitors Kate, wearing a red blazer and black skinny jeans, visits local air cadets at RAF Wittering in Cambridgeshire on February 14, 2017 On TikTok, influencers have declared that skinny jeans are 'so back' as Gen Z leads the revolution 'After years of looser, oversized silhouettes dominating the scene 'think baggy jeans and wide-leg trousers there's a shift towards a sleeker, more streamlined look. 'Fashion often reacts against what came before, so as the pendulum swings, a return to skinny jeans feels almost inevitable. Social media platforms like TikTok have played a role in reviving them, with younger style influencers embracing a mix of early 2000s and 2010s aesthetics.' Lisa pointed out that celebs appear to be leading the way, with the likes of Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner and Rihanna all spotted in more fitted styles in recent months - while they were a staple for Claudia Winkleman presenting the latest series of The Traitors. But the 2025 style has moved on from 2016, with Lisa noting that people are styling them in a more 'modern' way, adding oversized blazers, knee-high boots or edgy accessories. But for those preferring a more relaxed style, she had some positive news. 'As for whether they're here to stay, fashion is more fluid than ever, so while skinnies might have their moment, its likely they'll sit alongside straight-leg and relaxed cuts rather than fully replacing them,' Lisa concluded. Though skinny jeans were once a millennial favourite, it now appears to be Gen Z leading the way. On TikTok, influencers have put together trendy outfits based around the jeans, declaring 'skinny jeans are sooo back'. Although some people were thrilled and said they would wear skinnies 'always and forever', others fumed that the controversial style has made a return UK influencer Anna Maynard said: 'Skinny jeans are so back. I said what I said.' Meanwhile Juliana Halloway from the US said: 'I kept ONE pair of skinny jeans bc I knew this would happen. 'I refuse to get rid of anything that is 'out of style' because I am sure it will come back.' Posing in a pair of black skinny jeans, knee-high boots and a red jumper, she added: 'This was my Christmas Eve outfit haha.' Although some people were thrilled and said they would wear skinnies 'always and forever', others fumed that the controversial style has made a return. People wrote on social media: 'I don't have much to say about fashion apart from we must resist anyone who advocates the return of skinny jeans with the upmost force'; 'Please don't do this to me I HATE SKINNY JEANS NOW I can't stand the way they feel'; 'Never going back to skinny jeans'; 'I would rather die than wear skinny jeans again lmao, I lived that up in middle and high school'; 'And they look ugly, next'; 'It's so uncomfy though'; 'NOOOOO WE ARE NOT BRINGING THEM BACK.' Ed Hardy The colourful, gaudy designs were emblazoned upon T shirts, caps and jeans throughout the noughties - and in the 2020s too. The Ed Hardy label is making a comeback in 2025 - much to the horror of several millennials. Astrid Aschenbrenner, 35, and Sophie Förster-Vogelsberger, 32, from Vienna, Austria, revealed their shock at finding Ed Hardy merchandise on sale during a shopping trip last December. The pair came across the brand's low-cut jeans and appeared shocked as they declared on TikTok that they had 'lived through a whole fashion cycle'. The brand shot to popularity in the early noughties as trend-setting millennials adored the mixture of fashion with tattoo artistry. Fergie, Kim Kardashian, Madonna and Paris Hilton were among some of the A-listers who were seen sporting the brand in its heyday. Supermodel Bella Hadid was seen wearing a vintage Ed Hardy tank top with low rise white jeans in 2021, echoing the style of her youth. Kim Kardashian is pictured wearing Ed Hardy backstage at the Christian Audigier Fall fashion show in 2007 Astrid Aschenbrenner, 35, and Sophie Förster-Vogelsberger, 32, who are from Vienna, Austria, went shopping in December and they were horrified when they came across Ed Hardy jeans But seems its resurgence isn't welcomed by everyone. Astrid was speechless when she saw the jeans in the store, telling Newsweek she thought it was a 'prank' at first. She added: 'We were so shocked when we saw the comeback of these styles. The worst one is by far Ed Hardy, and the super low waist jeans that are designed to sit down with everything on show. 'It's reached a lot of people worldwide, and many millennials are just as shocked as us, mostly about Paul Franks and Ed Hardy coming back in style. 'Our reactions in that video were quite visceral, but it's also an ugly reminder of the body image issues we faced in the past.' Kimberly Hogg, from South Carolina, also came across Ed Hardy garments when she was shopping with her family. She said: 'Me and my sister, we were in high school around that time, anyway, we used to love Ed Hardy and wear it all the time and we got so tickled when we [saw this]. Millennials are also warning their younger peers about the return of low-rise jeans, as Gen Z fashionistas attempt to bring them back. Kimberly Hogg, from South Carolina, also came across Ed Hardy garments when she was shopping with her family Kimberly found an Ed Hardy t-shirt when she was shopping with her family that brought her back to her high school days Diesel's Milan Fashion Week showcase in February, showed models on the catwalk paraded extremely low-rise jeans as they showed off their ripped physiques - and very nearly revealed a little too much. The daring look follows several years in which high and mid-waist jeans have dominated the fashion landscape - much to the relief of millennials. But the extremely low-rise waistband dates well back to the 1990s, with Alexander McQueen debuting his daring silhouette, 'the bumster', as part of his first ever collection in 1996. They became one of McQueen's signature looks throughout his career and cemented his reputation as the 'bad boy' of the fashion industry. Bandage dresses Hailey Bieber was spotted in a bandage-style dress at the Fashion Trust U.S Award's earlier this year Singer Victoria Beckham at Marc Jacobs Spring 2008 during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week As the old saying goes, everything old can be made new again - and the latest fashion trend to enter its comeback era is the iconic bandage dress. Those who went clubbing during the noughties will be all too familiar with the figure-hugging design, which was usually paired with sky-high heels, a statement necklace and hair backcombed to the high heavens. Back then, the trend was loved by the it-girls of the moment: think Mischa Barton, Kim Kardashian and Paris Hilton. Hailey Bieber was spotted in a bandage-style dress at the Fashion Trust U.S Award's earlier this year - causing searches for the style to soar 300 per cent in just one week. The dresses are being sold by Gen Z-loved brands such as House of CB, formerly known as Celeb Boutique. 'I have not been this excited for a comeback ever,' wrote on TikTok user in House Of CB's now-viral video announcing the the return of the bandage dress. 'I am so excited for the youth,' said another. 'Every 21 year old deserves to have a reckless night out in a bandage dress,'. 'Ok I'm officially feeling old if this is fashionable again - I'm here for it, though!', said another user. Rihanna during 2007 Clive Davis Pre-GRAMMY Awards Party - Arrivals at Beverly Hilton Hotel in Beverly Hills On TikTok, @alannahcassie modelled a bandage dress, announcing 'bandage dresses are so back' When Christie Vian, from London, posted 'Bandage dresses are back???!' after paying a trip into House of CB, she sparked a very mixed reaction People commented that the dresses 'went away for a reason' On TikTok, @alannahcassie modelled a bandage dress, announcing 'bandage dresses are so back. Dare I say, my best charity shop find to date?' When Christie Vian, from London, posted 'Bandage dresses are back???!' after paying a trip into House of CB, she sparked a very mixed reaction. One person said: 'I can't get behind it I'm sorry.' Others wrote: 'They're trying to make 2016 happen but it's too early. Give it 10 years at least!! This isn't how vintage and nostalgia works…'; 'I think they make the female form look immaculate but I can't shake the tacky vibes I get from them'; 'They went away for a reason!'; 'They looked great going clubbing but I don't think the younger generation does that anymore?' Elsewhere on TikTok, people said: 'They won't come back properly cause gen z don't wear heels when they go out. You can't wear a bandage dress with sneakers, doesn't work.' Another said: 'Please no!'
The Age
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Age
Gen Z is reliving my youth. I'm scared to point out why they're wrong
I just know my mother is saying 'I told you so'. She spent much of the early 2000s watching my sisters and I hand-sew panels into our straight-leg jeans to turn them into flares, search Big W for flowy paisley tops and borrow Beatles CDs from the library to transfer onto our iPods. With each passing fascination that felt entirely new and fresh to us, she'd roll her eyes or laugh, and tell us she'd been there for the trend the first time around – and that one day we'd see our era of fashion return. It felt inconceivable to me then. No one would be clamouring for the neon T-shirts printed with puns in massive block text like the ones we bought from Supré. The songs on Top 40 radio seemed so fleeting and ephemeral – none of those could possibly last. You know where this is going, of course. I didn't begin to feel my age when I bought eye cream or experienced my first two-day hangover or skipped a party with an open bar to stay in and do a jigsaw puzzle the same way I felt it when I first saw micro brows and skinny jeans make their return. Loading We thought we'd all moved on. Women my age whispered in fear – 'Are we going to have to do it again? I just got my brows tattooed on!' But what we failed to consider was that 'we' would not be participating in the trend revival. That was a luxury reserved for those not alive to witness Y2K. The ones with no baggage attached to names like Ed Hardy and Von Dutch. People who only knew Paris Hilton as a DJ and the Olsen twins as fashion designers. Recently, while scrolling TikTok, I got an insight into a highly specific niche of Gen Z nostalgia. In a series of montages, some kids were expressing sentimental yearning not for a vague 'era' of life in the 2000s, but for the year 2014 specifically.
Sydney Morning Herald
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sydney Morning Herald
Gen Z is reliving my youth. I'm scared to point out why they're wrong
I just know my mother is saying 'I told you so'. She spent much of the early 2000s watching my sisters and I hand-sew panels into our straight-leg jeans to turn them into flares, search Big W for flowy paisley tops and borrow Beatles CDs from the library to transfer onto our iPods. With each passing fascination that felt entirely new and fresh to us, she'd roll her eyes or laugh, and tell us she'd been there for the trend the first time around – and that one day we'd see our era of fashion return. It felt inconceivable to me then. No one would be clamouring for the neon T-shirts printed with puns in massive block text like the ones we bought from Supré. The songs on Top 40 radio seemed so fleeting and ephemeral – none of those could possibly last. You know where this is going, of course. I didn't begin to feel my age when I bought eye cream or experienced my first two-day hangover or skipped a party with an open bar to stay in and do a jigsaw puzzle the same way I felt it when I first saw micro brows and skinny jeans make their return. Loading We thought we'd all moved on. Women my age whispered in fear – 'Are we going to have to do it again? I just got my brows tattooed on!' But what we failed to consider was that 'we' would not be participating in the trend revival. That was a luxury reserved for those not alive to witness Y2K. The ones with no baggage attached to names like Ed Hardy and Von Dutch. People who only knew Paris Hilton as a DJ and the Olsen twins as fashion designers. Recently, while scrolling TikTok, I got an insight into a highly specific niche of Gen Z nostalgia. In a series of montages, some kids were expressing sentimental yearning not for a vague 'era' of life in the 2000s, but for the year 2014 specifically.
The Guardian
28-03-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Australian canned cocktails taste test: from grownup drinks to ‘a hen party in a can'
Canned cocktails were once a single shelf in the bottle shop – at most. Now the category has expanded into whole fridges of options. We tasted our way through 22 Australian-made canned cocktails, and learned that the diversity, even for a group of sommeliers, hospo workers and friends who love a cheeky canned bevvy, is overwhelming. That makes this a really exciting choose-your-own-adventure category of drinks. You want something sessionable (that's insider slang for a drink you can enjoy more than one of in a row) without reaching for a beer? Can't be bothered to make your own cocktails? Crave something savoury? There's a canned cocktail out there that fits the bill. Sign up for the fun stuff with our rundown of must-reads, pop culture and tips for the weekend, every Saturday morning We scored each drink we tasted for packaging, with a separate score for taste or flavour. We split drinks into sections: vodka-based, gin-based, brewed, and 'bartender strength' canned cocktails. Every drink was poured into a glass and tasted chilled – because we're professionals (at least, until about the 16th can, when Elvis conspiracy theories took over). This made for some lively debates and a few dramatic reactions. After all the cans were crushed, we had some clear takeaways. First, quality is high: about 85% of what we tried was genuinely excellent. Second, drinking from a glass v straight from the can actually made a difference, sometimes (but not always) for the better. Below you'll find our picks from the mix, along with one that's best left on the shelf. Prices were checked at time of publication, but may fluctuate. Brookvale Union Vodka Peach Iced Tea, $9.29 ($29.95 for six), 4% ABV, available at Dan Murphy's and Liquorland Canned cocktails fall into two camps: bold and flavour-packed or subtle and sessionable. Brookvale Union's Peach Iced Tea lands firmly in the latter category. Soft peach aroma, low carbonation, and a clean finish made this an easy-drinking favourite. 'The label reminds me of an Ed Hardy T-shirt,' one of the reviewers noted, 'but the drink inside is lovely'. Unlike some in the 'fruit' category, this tasted like ripe peaches, not an artificial approximation. Four Pillars Bloody Shiraz Gin & Tonic, 250mL, $28.99 for four cans, 5.1% ABV, available at Dan Murphy's and Liquorland The scent of this drink alone, spilling out of the can before it was even poured, was enough to hook us. Four Pillars has long set a benchmark for gin, and its canned cocktail did not disappoint. With striking packaging and a perfectly balanced hit of Bloody Shiraz Gin, it was flavourful but not overwhelming. 'I don't normally like gin, but I LOVE this,' declared one convert. Proof that a great base spirit makes all the difference. Tommy's Booze Limoncello Spritz, 330mL, $24 for four cans, 5% ABV, The Tommy's range was a unanimous hit – subtle, seltzer-like, and exceptionally well made. Their Limoncello Spritz had a perfect lemony zing without being overpowering. 'When life gives you lemons, make this,' said a reviewer who was also obsessed with every lemon-based drink we tried (and there were a lot). It was fresh, crisp, and effortlessly drinkable – and made us want to book flights to the Amalfi coast immediately. Tommy's Booze Lampone Raspberry Spritz, 330mL, $24 for four cans, 5% ABV, Flavoured spritzes can be tricky – too sweet, too artificial, or just plain unbalanced. But this raspberry number nailed it. Light, refreshing and just tart enough, it proved a sweeter profile can still be well executed. I once heard seltzers described as like 'drinking TV static while someone shouts 'flavour' at you from the next room', but this is so far from that. Take note, future seltzer and spritz makers – this is how you do it. Curatif Amaretto Sour, 130mL, $50 for four cans, 12% ABV, Liquorland and Dan Murphy's Curatif's range is best served over ice, in a glass, and with a bit of ceremony. The Amaretto Sour, in particular, was a standout. With a rich, velvety mouth feel and the perfect maraschino cherry note, it was almost indistinguishable from the real deal. 'I would only buy three of the cans we tried,' said one panellist. 'This is one of them.' A proper, professional cocktail in a can. Don't underestimate its size; the mini can packs a big flavour punch. Sign up to Saved for Later Catch up on the fun stuff with Guardian Australia's culture and lifestyle rundown of pop culture, trends and tips after newsletter promotion Curatif Limoncello Sour, 125mL, $45 for four cans, 13% ABV, Bright, tart and full of sunshine, this drink reminded us of a photo of lemon sorbet served in a hollowed-out lemon. Someone commented: 'Put it on ice and I'm there.' That's precisely the way to drink it. With Tommy's Limoncello as the base, the quality was top tier – proof that, again, using great spirits leads to great canned cocktails. Bizzarro Australiano feat Maidenii Aperitivo Vermouth & Soda, 250mL, $26 for four cans, 6.5% ABV, Sometimes drinking straight from the can makes all the difference, masking certain aromas or even enhancing the experience. We found this in the sulphur notes of the Batch & Co Bondi Spritz, which were masked when drunk from the can, but Bizzarro Australiano tasted excellent both in glass and can. With its mild negroni meets Christmas cake spice vibe, it had a depth of flavour that felt classic and modern. The clear standout in the aperitif category. Saison Aperitifs x Mischief Brew Amaro Tonic, 250mL, $24 for four cans, 7% ABV, This drink was divisive – amaro lovers were obsessed, others weren't sure what hit them. With bergamot iced tea notes, it reminded me of the canned Lipton Iced Tea from the 90s, in a good way. Among the savoury options, it served as a welcome palate cleanser after several sugary drinks. If you love a good herbal digestif, this is your jam. If not, maybe start with something from the Bizzarro range. Box by G-Flip Apple Guava Alcoholic Juice – $8 each or $15/ 4-pack, 4.5% ABV BWS or Dan Murphy's Loved Just Juice as a kid? Now imagine it grown up and slightly boozy. Box by G-Flip was the ultimate non-carbonated option: juicy, nostalgic and dangerously easy to drink. 'The label is giving gym junkie pre-workout vibes,' one person noted, but the inside was all tropical, throwback fun. It's a great alternative to a pale ale beer when you want something fruity but not fizzy. Modus Double Lemon Alcoholic Lemon Squash, 375mL, $28 for four cans, 6% ABV, Subtle, low on bubbles and ridiculously easy to drink, Modus Operandi's Lemon Squash was a standout in the 'sessionable' category. Unlike other alcoholic lemon squashes, this had a softer mouth feel and avoided palate fatigue. 'Here for a good time, not a long time,' a panellist quipped, while another summed it up as: 'It gets the job done.' Perfect for beach days and back yard hangs. A crisp, no-fuss drink. Billson's Strawberry Watermelon Double Vodka, 250mL, $24.99 for four cans, 6% ABV, available at BWS, Liquorland and Dan Murphy's When this can was cracked open, a unanimous 'ooh' rippled through the group as a wave of liquid fairy floss hit our senses. The flavour followed suit: an explosion of spun sugar sweetness and a radioactively pink liquid that delighted and slightly frightened us. 'It's a hen party in a can,' someone declared. 'It's the first line of Man! I Feel Like a Woman! – LET'S GO GIRLS,' another added. While undeniably fun, it was also intense – one small can was plenty. It is a joyful, neon-pink ride, best enjoyed in moderation (feather boa optional). Roseade Rosé Lemonade Wine Spritzer, 250mL, $22 for four cans, 8% ABV, Vintage Cellars and Liquorland Brewed cocktails overall struggled to impress, often tasting muddled or flat – but none missed the mark quite like this one. As one taster remarked: 'You've taken two things I love – rosé and lemonade – and ruined both.' The packaging, ironically, was one of our favourites: a cool lemon in sunglasses, smirking at us as we grimaced through each astringent, bitter sip. It's a noble attempt, but sometimes even great ingredients don't make a great cocktail.
