Remember These 7 2010 Fashion Trends? They’re Suddenly Cool Again
From peplum tops to bandage dresses, the trends that defined 2010 are making a comeback.
If you were getting dressed in 2010, you probably remember the staples. Peplum tops, bib necklaces layered over everything, and a military jacket thrown over a bandage dress for a night out. For a long time, those outfits lived firmly in the "cringey throwback photo" category. Lately, though, I keep spotting the same pieces on my feed, and they look surprisingly good.
Fashion runs on a roughly 15-year cycle, so the timing tracks. The difference now is all in the styling. These pieces are showing up one at a time, paired with cleaner basics instead of piled on all at once. Keep scrolling to see the seven 2010 trends that are officially cool again and how to wear each one now.
Peplum
Peplum was everywhere in 2010, usually on a skintight top or dress. The new version is softer and more architectural and has a subtle flare at the waist instead of a dramatic ruffle. I've been wearing a peplum top with straight-leg jeans or a nice skirt for girls' nights out.
Statement Necklace
Remember the bib necklace? It was the go-to way to dress up a plain tee or a button-down, and it was usually big, sparkly, and a little loud. This time around, it's back as a single bold piece, like a gold or silver chain or an oversize pendant. Wear it over a knit or simple dress.
Flannel
The flannel top was the unofficial uniform of 2010, tied around the waist or worn open over a band tee. Now, it's getting a more grown-up treatment. Try an oversize flannel shirt as a light jacket over a slip skirt or tied around the waist.
Military Jacket
With its brass buttons and strong shoulders, the military jacket was one of the biggest outerwear trends of the era. It's back for fall, but it got remixed. It's less relaxed and more structured. It's the easiest way to add some edge to any look.
Distressed Bag
Slouchy, worn leather bags were an It-girl staple in 2010, and the more broken-in they looked, the better. Remember the Balenciaga City Bag era? After years of stiff, structured top-handle bags, that lived-in feel is back. A distressed bag makes even a polished outfit feel more relaxed.
Bandage Dress
The bandage dress defined going-out style in 2010. Today's version leans longer and less shiny, with thicker ribbed-knit fabric and more muted colors. Style one with a tailored blazer or an oversize leather jacket, and it feels completely current.
Leopard Print
Leopard never fully left, but in 2010, it was at full volume, from scarves to head-to-toe dresses. This season, it's showing up in more polished ways, like a leopard coat, calf-hair flats, or a silk midi skirt. Treat it like a neutral and pair it with black, camel, or denim.
Sierra Mayhew is a fashion editor at Who What Wear, bringing a decade of industry experience to the editorial team. Since joining in 2021, she has made her mark by blending luxury and accessible fashion, decoding runway trends, and curating must-have shopping lists. Before joining Who What Wear, Sierra sharpened her skills at Harper's Bazaar and Elle, with bylines in Bazaar.com and collaborated with iconic brands such as Gucci and Ferragamo. A graduate of the University of Notre Dame, Sierra translates editorial expertise into viral social content, making fashion engaging for a new generation. Her unique perspective is rooted in her love for travel, music, and discovering the hidden gems that make New York City a constant source of inspiration.