2016 Is the New 2026: Why We’re Laughing at 2016 Fashion Again
Written by Charlie Kloos
2016 Is the New 2026: Why We’re Laughing at 2016 Fashion Again
If you’ve spent any time online recently, you’ve probably noticed it: 2016 fashion is back - but not in a serious way. Old outfit photos are resurfacing, not as inspiration, but as jokes. Flower crowns. Fishnet tights. Skinny jeans. Peak Instagram-era looks being reposted with a heavy dose of irony.
Right now, 2016 fashion exists as a punchline. And honestly, that’s usually the first sign that it’s about to return.
Fashion has a habit of circling back through humour first. We laugh at past trends, exaggerate them, meme them. Then, almost without realising it, we start wearing them again. Just slightly tweaked. A little more self-aware. A little less try-hard.
With comfort still dominating how people dress, and streetwear influences carrying over from last year, it feels like the perfect moment for a reworked version of 2016 to make its way back into wardrobes. Not exactly as it was, but close enough to recognise.
So, what parts of ironic 2016 are we expecting to see taken seriously again?
The slip dress has been patiently waiting for its comeback. After peaking again around 2016 and then quietly disappearing into the background, it’s ready for a return.
This time, think silk or satin slips styled with intention: layered over tees, paired with fishnet tights, and grounded with chunky boots or Doc Martens. It’s the same formula — just worn with a bit more confidence and a bit less sincerity.
We’ve got plenty of these in-store, so if you’re feeling tempted to revisit this era (ironically or otherwise), you know where to find them.
Let’s be honest: Adidas Superstars never really went anywhere. But we’re predicting a proper resurgence this year — especially the classic white pair with black stripes.
They’re easy, comfortable, and instantly recognisable, which is exactly why they fit so neatly into this 2016 revival moment. Expect to see them styled in a more relaxed, thrown-on way, rather than the hyper-styled looks of the past.
We’ve also been seeing renewed interest in Converse and Vans again — particularly printed or slightly worn-in pairs that feel more personal than box-fresh.
No 2016 recap would be complete without the bomber jacket. Practical, comfortable, and endlessly wearable, it’s one of those pieces that works with almost everything.
With the rise of gorpcore and an ongoing focus on functionality and quality, bomber jackets feel perfectly placed for a comeback. This time around, they’re less about hype and more about ease — something you can throw on and forget about.
We’ve got a strong selection in-store, so if you’ve been missing a bomber in your wardrobe, it might be time to reunite.
Bringing 2016 Back (Your Way)
The fun part about revisiting 2016 now is that there’s no single way to do it. You can pick and choose. Lean into the irony, or strip it back entirely. Mix 2016 pieces with modern silhouettes. Wear them knowing exactly how ridiculous — and kind of brilliant — they once were.
And if you’re looking for the best place to start, Brick Lane has always been where trends get recycled, reworked and reimagined. From iconic staples to forgotten gems, vintage gives you the freedom to play with past eras without taking them too seriously.
After all, fashion coming back ironically is usually how it comes back for real.
See our version of the “2016 is the new 2026” meme trend below!