When I look at fashion trends from over the years, there are only a few styles that immediately transport me back in time. If you’ve lived through the iconic moment that is 2016, you know that skinny jeans, army green jackets and velvet chokers are all looks synonymous with the unforgettable year.
I had a bit of whiplash after I noticed these legendary, albeit controversial styles, were suddenly everywhere again in 2026. Call it nostalgia or another fashion cycle, but after ten years of hiding my ballet flats in my closet, I think it’s time to bring them out again . . . among some other statements I secretly never got rid of.
Now, you might be thinking, “Those looks belong back in 2016.” Well, I hate to break it to you, but what’s old is new again, and these fashion picks are proof. The key is to style these trends with a modern 2026 eye, which is why I’m elevating the way I style mom jeans, mules and off-the-shoulder tops.
We’re not copying and pasting the look, just getting a little inspo from our 20-something selves. And if you want to break out Beyonce‘s 2016 “Lemonade” album or re-watch the Gilmore Girls revival, all power to you. Browse my favorite 2016 fashion picks that are still worth sporting ten years later.
2016 Fashion Trends That Are Making a Huge Comeback
1. My Favorite: Truth be told, I got rid of most of my skinny jeans, but it looks like it’s time to replace them with this popular pair from Levi’s. They have a classic straight leg, a mid-rise design and an ankle hem, making them perfect for petite shoppers, like me.
2. Ballet but Modern: Ballet flats may not be everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s okay! These Mary Janes bridge the gap between the old and the new. I personally wear these comfy Rothy’s flats everywhere, including the park, errands and church.
3. Dusty Rose: Leave it to the millennials to claim a color for themselves. The ‘millennial pink’ shade was everywhere ten years ago, and you can get in on the look with this cozy cardigan that can be worn layered over a tee or on its own as a top.
4. Military Style: Everyone from Margot Robbie to Reese Witherspoon donned the green army jacket in 2016, and this top-rated pick takes things up a notch. With two pull strings at the waist, this jacket provides a flattering, hourglass appearance that’s sure to complement your figure.
5. Outerwear Must: I’m not sure when we all collectively stopped wearing bomber jackets, but I’m so onboard with its revival. In fact, I bought one similar to this trendy pick a few weeks ago. Yes, it’s really cute. And yes, the style actually keeps me warm.
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6. Shoulder Action: I think I might be late to the party . . . I didn’t realize off-the-shoulder tops became ‘uncool’ for a while there. Thankfully, I never stopped wearing them. I recently bought this exact off-shoulder mesh top that has a gorgeous hardware detail to dress it up for nights out.
7. Slinky Slip: A classic slip dress, like this one from The Drop, simply goes with everything. I love wearing this one under a leather jacket or over a simple white tee — it’s that versatility that other Amazon shoppers love.
8. Shiny and New: Metallics are just about everywhere right now. Whether you’re looking at the runway or Martha Stewart‘s Instagram, you’ll see the shiny fad. It’s why these silver slip-on loafers are on the list; they have that ‘It’ girl factor with an ‘old-school’ flair.
9. Classic Footwear: If you want to stick with 2016’s favorite loafer style, go with the Cosmo 2.0 from Vagabond. I bought these two years ago and love the platform height, cushioned footbed and penny style that looks especially cute with a dress and tights.
10. Curvy Gals: Mom jeans never went out of style, however, they were over-the-top popular ten years ago. With Abercrombie’s flattering Curve Love design, you can get the relaxed fit without the annoying waist gap.
11. Dainty Jewelry: Anyone who loved a velvet choker in college will adore this stylish, upgraded version. Made with an 18-karat gold-plated design and a paperclip chain, this pick looks more expensive and — dare I say it, ‘grown up.’
12. Vying for Velvet: Now you can break out the velvet without looking exactly like your 2016 self, thanks to this adorable mini dress. While the material is nostalgic, the square neck and a basque waist give it an updated touch.
13. Last but Not Least: Did someone say “ankle boots?” Yep, the pointed-toe bootie is back, going nicely with oversized jeans, relaxed trousers and the like.
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