Nostalgic Films With Familiar Accessories You'll See In 2021

What makes a film memorable? The plot is an obvious answer, but the actors’ wardrobe and its ability to symbolize the movie or television show are often overlooked. Fashion can be a creative tool to  encapsulate the film’s time, place, and character.  

Fashion trends are cyclical. The resurgence of the 90s and “y2k” styles today are prime examples. We’ve taken a look at our favorite nostalgic films throughout the years and curated some familiar trends you’ll see more of in 2021.

1. Pearls

As Coco Chanel would say, "A woman needs ropes and ropes of pearls.”  From chokers to long chains, pearls as costume jewelry are making a comeback. Gen Z and Millennials are modernizing pearls by pairing them with streetwear. While Holly Golightly’s five-strand pearl necklace is iconic in its own right, a more contemporary piece would be  Vivienne Westwood’s Three Row Pearl Bas Relief Choker.

2. Knee-High Socks + Shoes

The 90s Academia aesthetic would not be complete without knee-high socks. Just pair some knee-high white or black socks with the Nodaleto Bula Babies Leather Pumps and you’re good to go!

3. Baguette Bags

Does anyone remember when Carrie Bradshaw was robbed of her Fendi Baguette and Manolo Blahniks at gunpoint? Baguette bags, especially the Dior saddlebags, are returning to take us back to the ‘00s. One of my favorite cinematic scenes is the aftermath of Regina executing her revenge for Cady in the ‘00s classic Mean Girls. She’s seen holding a Cherry Blossom Pochette, which was highly coveted during its time and even today. Recreate this look with the Prada Sidonie Patent Leather Shoulder Bag or the Staud Tommy Beaded Bag!

4. Headscarves

Beyond the runways, headwraps serve as a form of deep-rooted symbolism within African culture. Thanks to 90s hip hop, the headscarves we correlate with “y2k” today have trickled up to modern runways. ASOS’s Green Printed Daisy Bandana is a close comparison to Nia Long’s light blue headwrap in Love Jones.

5. Belly Chains

When I think of dressed up belly chains, I automatically remember the ‘90s Chanel and Fran Fine’s iconic ensembles. As we transitioned to the ‘00s, waist chains were seen in “y2k” styles with the likes of Aaliyah and Christina Aguilera popularizing them. Whether you want to dress your waist chains up or down, you can achieve these looks with the Gucci Lion Head Belt or the SHASHI Pearl Belt as a more affordable option.

Tearsheets & Article by Jacqueline Vu, Contributor, PhotoBook Magazine