1. Stanley Tumblers
Stanley cups—no, not the hockey one—have taken over social media with their pastel hues and ergonomic handles, according to Alex Abad-Santos from Vox. Originally designed for construction workers, they’re now beloved by influencers and moms alike. The 40 oz “Quencher” is nearly impossible to find in stores due to viral TikTok trends. Hydration has never looked so aesthetic.
The real genius is in the function-meets-style combo. They fit in car cupholders, keep drinks cold for hours, and come in limited-edition drops that fuel resale demand. Stanley’s rebrand has turned an old camping essential into a must-have accessory. It’s basically the Yeti of this decade.
2. Beaded Friendship Bracelets
Taylor Swift didn’t invent friendship bracelets, but she definitely made them cool again, according to Emily Wind from The Guardian. Her Eras Tour inspired a global bracelet-making frenzy, with fans trading thousands at concerts. The trend exploded on Etsy, and craft stores saw a major bump in bead sales. Suddenly, everyone wanted to be part of the club.
It’s a mix of nostalgia, creativity, and connection that makes these so special. Handmade gifts feel extra meaningful in a digital world. And let’s be real—who doesn’t love wearing inside jokes on their wrist? It’s wholesome chaos in the best way.
3. Crocs
Crocs have gone from fashion faux pas to fashion flex, according to Star Donaldson from Byrdie, and it’s still kind of baffling. Once the go-to for nurses and chefs, they’re now worn by celebrities like Justin Bieber and Bad Bunny (who even has his own collab). They’re comfortable, waterproof, and endlessly customizable with charms called Jibbitz. Ugly-chic is officially cool.
The revival started slowly, but the pandemic helped—people wanted comfort, and Crocs delivered. Limited editions and smart marketing made them feel collectible. Now they’re a Gen Z favorite for everything from music festivals to lounging. Seriously, who would’ve predicted this?
4. Fanny Packs
The fanny pack has been rebranded as the “belt bag,” and somehow, we’re all okay with it, according to Anna Kaufman from USA TODAY. Originally seen as a tourist cliché, it’s now a crossbody staple on runways and in airports. Lululemon’s Everywhere Belt Bag has been flying off shelves for over a year. Function met fashion, and the world said yes.
The appeal lies in hands-free convenience and compact utility. Brands like Nike, Herschel, and even Gucci have leaned in with sleek and streetwise designs. TikTok travel hacks and “what’s in my bag” videos helped too. Suddenly, looking like a tourist is very on trend.
5. American Cheese
After years of foodies shunning it in favor of artisanal wedges, American cheese is enjoying a renaissance. Think smash burgers, diner-style grilled cheese, and melty breakfast sandwiches. Chefs like Alvin Cailan (of Eggslut fame) have publicly defended its unique melt and flavor. Processed? Sure. But undeniably delicious.
This shift comes from a nostalgic craving for comfort food and a backlash against food snobbery. People just want something that melts like a dream. Plus, Instagram-friendly diner aesthetics have become their own vibe. And nothing screams “classic American” like that oozy, yellow square.
6. Levi’s 501 Jeans
Levi’s 501s were always iconic, but now they’re the denim everyone wants again. Their rigid, straight-leg cut is back in a big way, thanks to a wave of ‘90s revival fashion. Vintage pairs are being hunted down on Depop and thrift apps for double or triple the original price. Loose and lived-in is the new skinny.
Why the comeback? They’re timeless, gender-neutral, and incredibly durable. Fashion cycles love to bring back “the basics,” and this one hits all the right notes. Plus, Gen Z’s love of thrifting has turned Levi’s into gold.
7. Jell-O Molds
Yes, that Jell-O—once the quirky staple of mid-century potlucks—is trending again. Retro recipes are making waves on TikTok and YouTube, with creators recreating vintage cookbooks. Some are ironic, sure, but many are genuine celebrations of throwback kitsch. From fruit-filled domes to pastel salads, gelatin is back in the game.
There’s something oddly comforting about the wobble and shine of a Jell-O mold. They’re nostalgic, weirdly fun, and totally different from modern minimalism. Add in their potential for wild customization, and you’ve got a social media goldmine. It’s food that dances—what’s not to love?
8. Roller Skates
Roller skating boomed again during lockdowns—and it hasn’t slowed down. People rediscovered the joy of skating through parks, parking lots, and even living rooms. Instagram and TikTok were flooded with smooth moves and retro vibes. Think disco meets fitness.
The popularity spurred brands like Moxi and Impala to sell out constantly. Celebs like Zendaya and Doja Cat joined the trend, fueling even more buzz. It’s not just exercise—it’s self-expression on wheels. And with rinks reopening, the culture is spinning full speed ahead.
9. Instant Cameras
Polaroid and Fujifilm Instax cameras are back in bags, parties, and wedding tables everywhere. Despite our phone cameras being better than ever, people crave the tangible keepsake. There’s something special about snapping a photo and watching it develop in real time. It’s lo-fi magic in a hi-tech world.
These cameras have become a staple at events, dorm rooms, and Instagram stories alike. They tap into our nostalgia while offering something fresh and analog. Limited filters and no retakes mean memories feel more real. Sometimes, imperfection is the point.
10. Pickleball
Pickleball—a hybrid of tennis, ping pong, and badminton—has exploded in popularity across the U.S. Once known as a retiree sport, it’s now embraced by millennials and Gen Z alike. Courts are popping up everywhere, and major athletes are even investing in pro leagues. Tom Brady and LeBron James are both in on it.
The appeal is easy to see: low barrier to entry, fun social vibe, and surprisingly good cardio. It’s casual but competitive, making it perfect for a variety of ages. Plus, it fits the wellness-meets-community lifestyle trend. Who knew whiffle balls could be so hot?
11. Trucker Hats
The trucker hat is officially out of retirement. Originally the uniform of gas station workers and early-2000s bros, it’s now a fashion staple again. Brands like Von Dutch and Chrome Hearts are reappearing on celebs like Rihanna and Bella Hadid. The Y2K wave brought them back—and they’re louder than ever.
What makes them so appealing now? Irony, nostalgia, and statement-making logos all rolled into one. They’re effortlessly casual but carry a bold edge. And in today’s fashion, more is definitely more.
12. Mason Jars
Remember when mason jars were everywhere for Pinterest DIYs? They’ve come full circle, now favored for everything from overnight oats to aesthetic pantry storage. TikTokers show off color-coded fridge setups and smoothie jars with matching lids. Function meets farmhouse chic again.
They’re also popular with the eco-conscious crowd for reusable storage and meal prep. And don’t forget about cocktails served in jars at trendy bars—it’s a whole thing. Once utilitarian, now peak Instagram. Who knew canning supplies could glow up?
13. Claw Hair Clips
Claw clips are back in a big way, and not just for lazy bun days. What used to be a ’90s convenience tool is now a must-have hair accessory. Brands like Emi Jay and Kitsch have turned them into fashion statements. Bella Hadid and Kendall Jenner helped push them into the spotlight.
They’re stylish, gentle on hair, and incredibly easy to use. That effortless, off-duty model look? Yeah, that’s the power of a good clip. And the variety—matte, pastel, tortoise shell—makes them fit any vibe.
14. New Balance Sneakers
Once unfairly dubbed “dad shoes,” New Balance has pulled a total 180 and become a staple in fashion-forward closets. Models like the 550s and 990s are now spotted on celebs like Timothée Chalamet and Hailey Bieber. Their retro, chunky aesthetic pairs perfectly with today’s love of vintage-inspired streetwear. Who would’ve guessed suburban footwear would become high fashion?
What’s driving this comeback? A mix of comfort, nostalgia, and smart brand collaborations with names like Aimé Leon Dore. They also tapped into the “normcore” aesthetic at just the right time. It turns out, being uncool for years is sometimes the perfect setup for a glow-up.
15. Red Lipstick
Classic red lipstick has made a bold comeback after years of nude and gloss-heavy trends. Stars like Taylor Swift, Selena Gomez, and Margot Robbie are bringing back the vintage glam. It’s a statement of confidence—and a little rebellion—in a post-pandemic world. After all, if you’re wearing a mask less, your lips might as well pop.
Beauty brands have responded with updated formulas: long-wear, moisturizing, and universally flattering shades. TikTok tutorials and #redlipchallenge have only fueled the movement. Red is timeless, but its return feels refreshingly bold right now. Call it the lipstick effect, version 2.0.
