Get the look: Y2K sunglasses and glasses
Y2K (also known as Cyber Y2K, Futuristic Y2K, or Kaybug) is an aesthetic that was prevalent in popular culture from roughly 1997 to 2004. Named after the Y2K Bug, it is characterized by a distinct aesthetic period, encapsulating fashion, hardware design, music, and furnishings shining with tech optimism — sometimes literally. Some of its aspects include tight leather pants, shiny clothing, silver eyeshadow, spiky updos, gradients, translucence, and Blobitecture. Most Y2K aesthetics rely on the use of technology and slick futuristic looks, signaling the optimism of a new era as the 20th century/2nd millennium progressed into the 21st Century/3rd Millennium. The Y2K era ended around the end of 2004 and was succeeded by the Frutiger Aero and McBling era.
Y2K aesthetics are mostly classified as a subcategory of another futuristic aesthetic, Retro-Futurism. Some elements of Y2K also cross over with Vaporwave, another Retro-Futurist aesthetic, since it shares Vaporwave's angst towards late-stage capitalism, and its nostalgia for a future that never came. However, the Y2K aesthetic has not yet been explored by the Vaporwave scene as much as earlier, more ubiquitous periods.
Do you ever wish you could just step back in time? Well, you’re in luck. The year 2000 is making its comeback — think denim mini-skirts, low rise jeans, chunky trainers, baguette bags and of course retro eyewear. We’re two decades on and the cyclical nature of fashion has struck again, with pivotal millennium styles now bigger and better than ever before.
What is Y2K?
You may have heard ‘Y2K’ bandied around in popular culture, but what does the phrase actually mean? Well, Y2K is actually short for the year 2000. But usually refers to the late ‘90s and early-to-mid 2000s when it’s used in the context of fashion.
How to achieve the Y2K aesthetic
Shaped by luxurious consumerism, the Y2K aesthetic is retro but futuristic and consists of many styles. Whether you want to go all-out ‘00s or for a simple and smart '90s look, there’s no doubt that a pair of specs is your top must-have accessory. From rectangle frames of the ‘90s to the tinted and rimless lenses of the 00s, explore the different styles of the Y2K fashion era here.
The early aughts hype was all about flared jeans, crop tops, and sweatsuits with a side of sparkle and shine. We also can’t talk about the 2000s without mentioning the sunglasses scene, which played up everything from colorful lenses to luxe deets.
90s Rectangle frames
Rectangle frames are quintessentially a Y2K staple. From smaller vintage frames to oversized fits, rectangular glasses will have you feeling like a celebrity as you strut around this summer.
Want to explore more? Read more about our rectangular framed glasses and sunglasses here.
Tinted lenses
With dopamine dressing hot on trend this year, tinted lenses are a great way to capture that mood-boosting feeling with specs. These on-trend sunglasses are very Y2K with a polished gold metal finish. The subtly green-tinted lenses make these an easy accessory to match with any outfit.
Going for a more chic look? No problem. Our brown tinted lenses look great against the blush-pink tips of this sunglasses frame. An elegant and fashionable Y2K addition that will have you feeling cool and confident this summer.
Rimless Y2K sunglasses
You can’t nail Y2K style without rimless shades, and rimless specs have recently infiltrated the fashion world in full force — proving a popular choice to add that extra something to your Y2K wardrobe. Ultralight rimless glasses provide a discreet style, with the ultra-thin frames creating a flattering and modern finish to conquer the ultimate minimalist look.
Want to learn more about tinted lenses? You can read up on our colour tinted sunglasses here.
Find your perfect pair
Looking for your perfect Y2K eyewear accessory? We’re here to help!
Take a look at our DL Glasses to keep up with all the latest trends in eyewear.
Post time: Nov-24-2022