Every time a style or trend seems like it has disappeared for good, it always appears to come back one way or another. In 2020, Princess Diana’s iconic crewneck or mockneck paired with biker shorts came back in full force as a popular trend, with influencers like Emma Chamberlain recreating this look. 

Today, the trend has had a resurgence, this time through the famous Parke mockneck that everyone so desperately wants. Chelsea Parke has marketed her products to no end, with the most popular being the mocknecks featuring her last name written across the chest. Through TikTok and Instagram, countless consumers view it as a must-have item for any event or season. But it was Princess Diana who originally brought the look to life, with her chic, effortless style and powerful presence setting the style for generations to come.

This is not the only example of a trend resurging years, or even decades later. Tiny sunglasses were popular in the late 90s and early 2000s and were worn by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and the Olson twins. Now, celebrities such as Bella Hadid, Kendall Jenner and Lily-Rose Depp style these same sunglasses and influence others to add them to their day to day accessories. 

Tiny sunglasses and low rise jeans are both items that would be achievable to thrift as they have both gained and lost popularity many times. Low rise jeans often worn by Britney Spears and Paris Hilton in the 2000s have made an incredible comeback through Generation Z. Millennials are known for their high rise jeans and tight jeggings, avoiding low rise and baggy at all costs. 

But today’s youth are embracing the silhouette, pairing low rise jeans with crop tops, oversized jackets and many other pieces. The way low rise jeans are styled and worn now are often less restrictive than how they were marketed and worn in the early 2000s. Additionally, an item like this plays into the idea of sustainability being a factor in the recycling and resurgence of trends. 

Another notable example is the revival of matching sets and loungewear. In the past they have been seen as outdated, lazy or even overly coordinated. But now these pieces are staples in many everyday wardrobes. Velour tracksuits are a prime example of the past popularity of matching sets. Now huge brands like Alo, Lululemon, Garage and Set Active sell countless sets. 

This resurgence mirrors the popularity of the Parke mockneck. Just like Princess Diana effortlessly blending casual and luxury while wearing biker shorts and a crewneck to look both comfortable and chic, today’s matching sets embody that same style. 

How do trends always seem to recycle and resurface? This is not just due to designers revisiting past styles, but also because of the strong influence of pop culture, nostalgia and sustainability. As celebrity fashion, influencer culture and thrifting continue to gain popularity, our collective fascination with the past makes it easy for old trends to feel new and relevant again.