If you’re reading this, I imagine that you probably found your personal style (or at least the first iteration of it) around the turn of the century. Millennials and older Gen Zs will know that wedge trainers, graphic T-shirts and distressed denim miniskirts were key staples in our noughties wardrobes long before the triumphant renaissance they’re experiencing now. After years of domination by quiet luxury and “clean-girl” minimalism, Y2K energy is back and full of optimism, and the fashion set is indulging in hyper-glamorous, pop-culture-infused glitz. But it’s the resurgence of nostalgic accessorising (or over-accessorising) that has really piqued my interest.
At a time when life felt more carefree and most of us had never heard of the word “algorithm”, fashion was expressive and fun. Think Paris and Nicky Hilton in those iconic graphic T-shirts or Victoria Beckham’s 2006 WAG wardrobe; the It girls and their accessories were doing the most, and we loved every second of it.
Now, as a backlash builds against social-media-dictated “aesthetics”, personality-driven maximalism and nostalgic fashion trends are taking over, and 2000s accessories are the easiest way to get involved. Personally, I’m most excited about the re-release of Carrie Bradshaw‘s “emotional support bag” (a purple sequinned Fendi baguette bag) or the return of Baby Phat and its iconic rhinestone belts. All in all, these accessories are here to make it clear that subtlety has officially left the chat.
After consulting the runways and my social media feeds, I’ve uncovered six Y2K-inspired accessory trends that are cropping up everywhere right now. Think big, think flashy and then double it. These accessories are a little outrageous, somewhat divisive and a relatively affordable way to inject a little buzz back into your look. Have fun!
6 Y2K Accessories Trends Enjoying a Comeback in 2026
1. Rhinestone Belts
Style Notes: As a certified Y2K poster girl, there’s hardly a trend on this list that Paris Hilton didn’t wear back in the 2000s. And whilst I adored her floral rosettes and wraparound sunglasses in The Simple Life (more on that later), it’s her rhinestone-studded belt that I’m coveting. With its unapologetic sparkle, it can turn even the most casual of outfits (and naturally, festivalwear) into a full-blown moment. Think of it as jewellery for the waist, because why should your neck and ears have all the fun?
Shop Rhinstone-Studded Belts:
This looks like the 2026 version of the exact belts Paris wore.
Pair with tailored trousers and a racerback tank top to create a cool look.
I’ve seen so many Ralph Lauren pieces from the noughties on my social feeds this year.
2. Tinted Wraparound Sunglasses
Style Notes: This one feels straight out of the ’00s-cool-girl playbook. Let’s be honest: we all wanted to be either Posh or Becks when we were growing up, and for most of us, wraparound sunglasses take us back to those heady days of hot-pink outfits, princess heels and pop idols. In 2026, they’re just as cool as before, but their appeal lies in their statement-making silhouette. Adding an edgier finish to minimalist looks, these sunnies stand out from the crowd, making a statement all on their own.
Shop Wraparound Sunglasses:
These also come in gold and hot pink.
These look almost identical to Paris favourite Y2K pair.
I’ve yet to come across a pair of Jimmy Fairly sunglasses that I’m not obsessed with.
3. Pageboy Hats
Style Notes: From big, fluffy bucket hats (think that pink Pamela Anderson look in the ’90s) to every iteration of the baker boy, 2026 has already delivered an eclectic lineup of hats by summer. Few accessories can transform the proportions of an outfit quite so instantly—or create such visual impact. Sitting proudly at eye level, a great hat has the power to pull a look together, change its entire silhouette and, perhaps most importantly, give you an excuse to have a little more fun with fashion.
Shop Bakerboy Hats:
Channel Keira Knightley in Love Actually with this puff cap.
This Mimpi hat has been all over my social media feed this summer.
This timeless style also comes in classic black colour.
4. Oversized Hoops
Style Notes: Often written off as “cheap”, large hoops are finally making their triumphant return and shaking off the old connotations. As accessories get louder and more unapologetically expressive, today shoulder-grazing hoops feel less Jenny from the Block and more like a playful declaration of personality. They command attention without demanding it, holding the gaze in the most refined way.
Shop Oversized Hoops:
I’ve been wearing hoops just like this all summer long.
Forget bag charms, this season is all about earring charms.
These thicker hoops will stop any unwanted bending that often happens with skinner pairs.
5. Vintage-Inspired Bags
Style Notes: Whether you’re more drawn to Carrie Bradshaw’s beloved Fendi Baguette, Saint Laurent’s Mombasa or Chloé’s Paddington, this year vintage bags have well and truly re-found their footing. I mean, we all know there’s nothing better than having secured one the first time around, but even pre-loved bags offer the same appeal. Be it superior craftsmanship or rare archival designs, vintage often gives even the coolest It-bags a run for their money.
Shop Vintage-inspired Bags:
Every time I see this bag, I can almost hear Carrie say “Its not a bag…its a Baguette”.
From the distressed wooden handle, to the pony hair leopard motif. If I was a luxury bag, I would certainly be this one.
Funnily enough, my mum’s white Chloé Paddington happened to be my year 9 school bag. How I wish I’d preserved her until 2026.
6. Toe Rings
Style Notes: This year, the revival of “foot jewellery” has sent shock waves amongst podophobes, but this staple of the late ‘90s and early noughts has shifted from free-spirited and subtly cool to all-out decoration. Today, more-is-more: think diamonds decorating your flip-flops or sea-like swirls popping out of a peep toe. With fashion’s current fixation on all things toe-adjacent, there has never been a better time to make a foot-lead statement.
Shop Toe Rings:
Simple yet oh so stylish.
These toe-rings have been top of my wish list for some time.
Simuero has been spearheading the toe-ring revival since 2024.
