Jocelyn's Media Studies Blog: Research

I am unsure of what era of the 2000s I want the film opening to be set in, so I will be doing research on the early, mid, and late 2000s.

Early 2000s (2000-2004)

2000 was about the future and technology. This was reflected in fashion with futuristic and space-inspired designs, metallic fabrics, and neon colors. The major influences of the time were Paris Hilton, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, magazines, and MTV. The clothes matched their lifestyle, and the music people listened to. Movies that inspired people were Legally Blonde, Coyote Ugly, American Pie, 10 things I hate about you, She's All That, and Mean Girls.

The color palette of the early 2000s was filled with shiny black tones and reflective metallics. Most of the looks of the early 2000s were worn for going out clubbing, though some other trends were worn daily. Popular outfits women wore included handkerchief tops, leather skirts, shiny pants, and sparkly shoes. Casual/leisure wear was a big trend during this time. Denim was a staple fashion piece for both men and women, going from just pants to shirts, jackets, and hats. Casual style for women included crop tops, hoodies, low-rise flared jeans, cargo pants, jean skirts, off-the-shoulder tops, and ribbed sweaters. Platform sandals, Uggs, or sneakers were worn with those causal outfits.

Mid 2000s (2005)

During this time, fashion trends began to take inspiration from 60s bohemian looks with yoga pants, low-rise jeans, cowl-neck shirts, peasant tops, capri pants, cropped jackets, and dresses over jeans. Accessories worn with these pieces are chunky belts, aviator glasses, jelly bracelets, and ties (worn around the neck or as belts), ballet flats, and platform boots. This decade was defined by iconic items like Von Dutch trucker hats, Juicy Couture tracksuits, and Louis Vuitton bags.

Wearing shorts with heels was common in 2005. Bubble hems, a rounded effect on the hems of skirts and dresses, were popular to wear to parties; some even wore the style to prom. Oversized sunglasses were a large fashion accessory in 2005. Rhinestones and glitter were commonly seen on shirts and pants, seen on Mariah Carey in the picture below. Long and layered beaded necklaces were another popular accessory in 2005. The punk style (dark and swept bangs, dark nail colors, graphic tees, and hoodies) was popular in the 2000s' emo-punk bands, seen on Pete Wentz from Fall Out Boy.

Late 2000s (2006-2009)

Most fashion trends from the mid 2000s continued in the late 2000s, though some were left behind. Crop tops turned into camisoles; miniskirts became babydoll skirts, and sweater dresses became a trend. The 80s and 90s trends were revived in neon colors, animal prints, geometric shapes, light denim leggings, and ripped acid washed jeans. These were worn with "gladiator" sandals, ballet flats, and headbands

The rise of emo and rock influenced fashion. Skinny jeans, band tees, and studded belts defined emo and scene subculture as bands like Fall Out Boy and My Chemical Romance influenced music and style. Brands like Rock & Republic made leather and studs popular and seen as a symbol of strength in fashion. American Eagle made skinny jeans popular with their selection of good quality jeans with affordable prices.