Y2K & '90s Knitwear is Back

Trendy Styles to Knit & Crochet Now 🕺

The early 2000s are calling, and they want their knitwear back! But too bad, we are keeping it! Nostalgic fashion is in full swing, and for those of us who lived through the rise of fuzzy cardigans, slouchy sweaters, and holey-knit tops the first time around, it is both a blast from the past and a prime opportunity to knit or crochet our own throwback wardrobe.

As a true child of this era, this trend is giving me flashbacks. Yes, I am aging myself (shhh don’t tell)! The fashion, the music, the questionable style choices; it is all coming back, and I am here for it.

Back in the 2000s vertical stripes, lacy cardigans, and layering knitwear was all the rage.

Chunky, Oversized Sweaters! 🧶

Remember those ultra-slouchy, oversized sweaters that draped over your jeans or, let us be honest, your low-rise cargo pants? They are back, and the bigger, the better. Knitters and crocheters alike are loving loose silhouettes with exaggerated sleeves and plush, cozy textures. Whether you are crafting a ribbed turtleneck or a roomy pullover, this trend is perfect for layering and lounging in peak Y2K style.

2025 knitwear trends include big oversized lacy sweaters layered over dresses like this or with low rise flare bottom jeans.

Mesh and Open-Knit Tops! ✨

If you were not layering a sheer, holey-knit top over a spaghetti strap tank in the late 1990s, were you even there? Mesh-inspired knitting and crochet are seeing a huge resurgence, giving us the perfect excuse to recreate those lightweight, grunge-meets-boho pieces. Look for airy, breathable patterns that let you channel your inner early 2000s icon.

Liz of PurlsAndPixels in a boho sparkle sweater.

Fuzzy and Fluffy Everything! 🐑

Eyelash yarn and mohair are having a serious moment again. Once the go-to texture for cropped cardigans and furry accessories, these soft and fuzzy fibers are making their way into modern knits. Think pastel-colored boleros, plush shrug-style sweaters, and even fuzzy leg warmers to complete the look.

Learn to knit leg warmers with this knitting pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Sleeves That Make a Statement! 🎭

From bell sleeves to extra-long, scrunchy arm warmers, statement sleeves are taking over. Inspired by early 2000s emo, goth, and indie fashion, long knit sleeves that cover half your hands are making a comeback. This trend is perfect for both warmth and aesthetic appeal.

Vertical Stripes & Tall Socks are Back! 🧦

On a recent trip to JCPenney, I could not help but notice the wave of Y2K and ’90s knitwear styles taking over the racks. Chunky striped sweaters, cropped fuzzy cardigans, and knee-high socks in every color lined the displays, bringing back serious 90s nostalgia. It was like stepping into a time machine, only this time, we can appreciate these styles with fresh eyes. Whether shopping for ready-to-wear pieces or knitting your own, the revival of these trends is everywhere, proving that what was once old is new again! You can check out some of these throwback-inspired knits yourself at JCPenney’s sweater collection.

Pair a sleeveless knit tank with vertical striped shorts for a true 1990's fashion flashback. And if you want to be

Flipping through old family photos from the ’90s, I could not help but notice one thing: vertical stripes and tall white socks were everywhere! And guess what? They are back in full force. Striped knit sweaters, especially in bold primary colors or pastel shades, are making a huge comeback. Pair them with high-waisted jeans, tennis skirts, or even classic cargo pants for that effortlessly cool retro vibe. And let’s not forget the knee-high white socks, once a staple of preppy and sporty fashion, now being styled with everything from chunky sneakers to platform sandals.

90s styles are back for 2025. Knit some tall socks or vertical stripes to jump on these fashion trends with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Granny Squares but Modernized! 🎨

Crochet’s revival means the classic granny square is back in a fresh, contemporary way. Think bright, clashing colors or minimalist monochrome sets. Granny square tops, cardigans, and even patchwork-style dresses are flooding fashion runways and indie boutiques alike. Peak Y2K and ’90s knitwear style in 2025 fashion!

Bright colors, stripes, and unique textures were all over '90s and Y2K fashion... and they're back!

The Rise of DIY and Upcycling! ♻️

One of the best things about this nostalgic knitwear revival is that it is perfect for DIYers. Instead of hunting through thrift shops for authentic pieces from the past (which is also great fun!), makers are creating their own retro knits, upcycling old sweaters, and embracing slow fashion. Patterns inspired by Y2K and ’90s knitwear are emerging everywhere, from oversized vests to chunky scarves and knit handbags.

How to Make the Y2K and ’90s Knitwear Trend Your Own! 🌟

Whether you are picking up your needles for the first time or diving into your yarn stash for a full-on 2000s reboot, this trend is all about personal expression. Play with bold colors, mix textures, and do not be afraid to go over the top. That was the true essence of early 2000s fashion and it’s back for 2025.

Pair a chunky sweater with a flowy sundress... then you'll be rocking the '90s and Y2K knitwear trend for 2025. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Dust off your knitting needles, dig out that fuzzy yarn, and get ready to relive the fashion era that gave us butterfly clips, cargo pants, and, most importantly, unforgettable knitwear. The best part is that this time, you get to make it exactly the way you want.