Growing up in the early 2000s was nothing like it is today. We didn’t all have iPhones and go around wearing crop tops and worry about how many likes our newest Instagram post got. It was a simpler time, to say the least, and the outfits we grew up wearing in middle school definitely reflect that. These outfits and accessories are definitely things we all owned and proudly wore growing up, and I think it’s safe to say we all learned from these fashion decisions.
1. Gauchos
Quite possibly the most comfortable pants in the world, gauchos came long before leggings and yoga pants. They weren’t worn quite as fashionably as they are in this photo, but we really rocked gauchos everywhere.
2. Bermuda shorts
Bermuda shorts were a staple in every girl’s closet. They were perfect for all occasions, and more than likely, they were plaid and came in different pastel colors. You could never go wrong with a good pair of these shorts.3. Velour tracksuit
This was such a classic for women of all ages in the early 2000s. These tracksuits came in so many colors, and they were great because you could just throw it on with any top and be out the door, matching perfectly in your two-piece beauty.4. Clogs
These shoes made somewhat of a comeback in recent years, but clogs were a fashion statement growing up. They were the first shoe with a heel that many of us could wear, which is a momentous thing to celebrate.5. Hollister/Abercrombie shirts
Any kind of printed shirt was great, but the coolest kids wore the Hollister or Abercrombie shirts with the store logo printed in big letters across the top. Even though the shirts were slightly overpriced, this didn’t stop tons of people from collecting these shirts in all different colors for any occasion.6. Soffe shorts
Soffe shorts were the original version of Nike shorts. These cotton shorts also came in multiple colors and patterns (I’m sensing a pattern here) and were our go-to for comfort in the summer months.
7. Headbands with ties
This innovative twist on the headband drew in a lot of girls who were looking for a way to spice up their headband collection. These headbands had ribbons attached to them so you could tie them behind your head, or maybe leave the ribbons hanging down for a little extra flair.8. Skinny Glitter Scarves
Last but not least, the skinny glitter scarves. What outfit would not be complete without a shimmering scarf? The word “scarf” is used loosely since this accessory was really skinny and did nothing for warmth, but it sure did make a statement.