As we officially hit the second half of the 2020s, social media can't seem to get enough of the prior decade.

Ever since we entered the 2020s, the urge to look back, cherish the era's memories, and bring back fashion staples from that chapter has resurfaced many times over. Whether it be bedazzled baby tees, matching sweatsuits, or a slew of skinny jeans, the cycle of nostalgia seems to drive this decade.
This summer, society has witnessed the return of teal, capri pants, and arm cuffs to a level that replicates the hype of when these trends first debuted. Not only does this pattern contribute to the surge of microtrends that reminisce of simpler times, but it is also becoming a defining aspect of decennium style.
On September 1, Encyclopedia Britannica noted that the world has officially entered the late 2020s. We've seen what styles from the 2000s and 2010s have defined the early and mid part of the decade. But a question remains: What fashions will characterize the final stretch of this period?
From styling choices that didn't get the call to come back so far to pieces that were the rage at a certain point in time, join L'OFFICIEL in the conversation surrounding what will specify the rest of the decade.

Remember the classic "jeans and a going-out top" duo? Well, you can thank that Y2K pairing for making dresses over denim a defining look of the era. Even with roots in the mid-18th century, celebrities like Jessica Alba, Nicole Richie, and Anne Hathaway appeared in the dress-over-jeans style. &nbsp;In recent years, Gigi Hadid, Jennifer Lawrence, and Ayo Edebiri have rocked modern versions at red carpets, film screenings, and out and about. As bright hues and high-quality denim take over the industry, we wouldn't be surprised if both worlds collided once again, this time during the 2020s.

Just in time for the chillier seasons, this accessory was a must-have in the 2010s. Known as either a ring scarf or a cowl, the infinity scarf's circular build doesn't have defined ends like its counterparts do. During the Fall/Winter 2026 season, brands like Altuzarra, Christian Siriano, and Valentino emphasized the versatility of the scarf. Naturally, it makes sense that the complicated yet intriguing piece comes back to the zeitgeist. Whether you sport it in a single or double loop, the infinity scarf will definitely arrive sometime in the coming months.

Ah yes, the iconic and statement-making choice that is stunting in a pair of these bottoms. Throughout the 2000s, brands like Abercrombie &amp; Fitch, Juicy Couture, and Baby Phat jazzed up the industry with velour tracksuits, joggers, and everything that paired well with either piece. Let's just say, there was no other way to express oneself with words that were plastered across the back of one's sweatpants. To further Y2K aesthetics this decade, Juicy Couture, Aeropostale, and Von Dutch have launched collections featuring their brand names on the rear. An outfit that does all the talking is truly timeless.

If you knew anything about pop culture in the late 2000s and early 2010s, then you must remember the craze surrounding disco pants. In the late 1960s, the form-fitting pair of trousers was created in San Francisco. But when Olivia Newton-John appeared in pants resembling disco pants, an enduring closet essential was born. Not only was the garment beloved by artists like Shaun Cassidy and Tina Turner in the '80s, but it had a revival when American Apparel released a slightly altered version in 2008. At the beginning of the 2010s, disco pants had a chokehold on indie sleaze lovers, early Instagram and Tumblr users, and college students. From a dress to an it-top, it can be dressed up and down easily.

As shows such as I Love LA, Adults, and Overcompensating continue to garner a massive Zillennial fanbase, the stylings of the 2000s are inseparable from each series' plot. From Tallulah Steele to Issa D'Amann, these comedic fashion divas shared a common style: rocking whale tails. Yes, the look had a resurgence in 2019 when Hailey Bieber wore it at the 2019 Met Gala. But when Gillian Anderson wore a black backless Eduardo Lucero gown to the 2001 Vanity Fair Oscar Party, that's when the whale tail was most prominent. Britney Spears, Kate Moss, and Beyoncé are just some stars that have sported the look, and the roster will only continue to grow in the latter half of the 2020s.

T-Strap. Thong-strapped. Ankle-Strap. These are not just different styles of sandals, but pieces that helped the gladiator sandal become a key footwear style in the 2010s. The shoe's neoclassical inspirations elevate the wearer (and their outfit) to goddess status. Throughout ancient and modern art, the sandal is only donned by the most powerful, which raises one's confidence to the roof. If you want to keep the legacy alive, embrace your inner Michelle Obama, Serena Williams, and Zendaya (all previous wearers) as the third and final part of the decade slowly comes to an end.

The 2000s and 2010s Have Made A Comeback. What's Next?

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