Since the clock struck midnight on New Year’s Eve, social media has flown back in time. 2016 has taken the internet by storm, with people posting throwback pictures, filming with fun filters and showing off their 2010s-inspired outfits. While some of these 2016-era trends should probably stay in the past, here’s what we hope will actually make a comeback.
Choker necklaces
The iconic, Tumblr-era tattoo black choker cemented itself as a must-have in the wardrobe of teenagers growing up in the mid-2010s. The choker was always seen paired with off-the-shoulder tops, matte lipstick and ripped jeans, but today it can be adapted for anyone’s stylistic needs — whether it be a light touch to a simple outfit or a bold statement piece.
For those who thrive off a minimalistic lifestyle — adorning outfits dressed with delicate lace and muted trench coats — an accessory like this “Riviera” layered choker adds a refined accent that compliments the entire outfit. However, those wanting to embrace a bolder, more colorful style should opt for a chunkier choker ornamented with pendants, jewels and playful colors, such as Ettika’s Swirl Pendant Choker or Wolf & Badger’s Eva Choker Necklace.
Boho-chic
For those who fill their Pinterest boards with fringe, flower crowns and flared denim, reviving 2016 may call for embracing the boho-chic aesthetic. The style draws from bohemian, hippie 1960s counterculture and 1970s folk-inspired styles with contemporary twists that pull together these elements for an everyday look. In 2016, Coachella epitomized this aesthetic — with many attendees wearing long flowy pants, wide-brim hats and crochet tops from top brands of the time, such as Free People, Planet Blue and Nasty-Gal.
In 2026, boho-chic returns in a softer and more polished light that makes the aesthetic more accessible for the day-to-day outfit. For those hoping to add more neutral tones to their wardrobes, staple pieces like a lace-trimmed blouse and a flowy midi skirt can mark the return of this aesthetic while accomplishing your goal. On the other hand, this lightweight suede jacket adds an accessorizing touch to an otherwise simple outfit and can easily be worn when grabbing dinner with a friend or running to classes.
DIY
Nestled between videos of the Dolan Twins and James Charles, DIY tutorials on YouTube became comfort shows in the mid-2010s. While it’s unlikely that we will recreate the iconic duct-tape wallets and distressed graphic tees in 2026, we can still leverage the art of DIY in our everyday lives. For instance, those looking to save money and help out the environment can try thrift flipping. It’s rare to end a trip to the thrift store with a satisfying, rewarding haul — unless you’re one with an eye for rare finds. Instead of leaving demotivated, you can simply turn your subpar finds into a DIY project. By altering an unshapely dress into a two-piece outfit or sewing a blouse from a tablecloth, you can turn around a bleak shopping trip in one afternoon.
High-waisted skinny jeans
Amid an era of countless new styles of jeans, some are calling for a return to the once-adored skinny jeans of 2016. A classic staple in everyone’s wardrobe during this era, the skinny jean provided a level of flexibility in curating an outfit while maintaining a standard of style. Those cute boots that you bought and need to show off will quickly be hidden under straight-leg jeans, but wearing them over your skinny jeans will elevate your outfit with another level of accessorization. You can also opt to reach for your skinny jeans when wearing a chunkier sweater, oversized turtleneck or even a large scarf to maintain your silhouette while keeping you warm. H&M’s Skinny High Jeans are a casual option you can reach for in your day-to day life, but those who fully want to embrace the 2016 trend can opt for ShopBBJ’s Gen Double Button Destructed Skinny Jean.
Contact Natalie Beit at [email protected].