Cardi B Just Wore the Denim Trend I Bought at Wet Seal in 2002

In case you haven't noticed, Y2K fashion is back with a vengeance. Shrugs, dresses over pants, and low-rise denim skirts are just a few of the 2000s trends enjoying their moment in the sun again. Isn't it funny how these trends can instantly transport you back two decades? That was the case when I saw Cardi B's newest outfit, which immediately made me think of going into Wet Seal at my local mall in 2002 and buying similar jeans.

Photographed in New York, Cardi B wore extra-faded bootcut jeans that simply scream Y2K. Oh, and don't overlook her excellent Maison Margiela Tabi shoes. As it turns out, plenty of brands have jumped on this denim trend, as evidenced by the plethora of options available at Urban Outfitters, Shopbop, and other retailers. Are you daring enough to try the trend in 2023? Scroll down to see how Cardi B styled it and shop similar pairs for yourself. 

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(Image credit: Splash News)

On Cardi B: Maison Margiela Tabi shoes

Shop Similar Jeans

Opening image: Getty Images

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Associate Director, Fashion News

Erin got her start as a Who What Wear intern over 13 years ago—back when the site only published a single story per day. (Who What Wear has since increased that number twentyfold.) She graduated magna cum laude from USC, which is how she ended up moving to Los Angeles from her hometown of San Diego. In college, she also interned at Refinery29, where she was promoted to editorial assistant and then assistant editor. After nearly three years at R29, she came back to WWW in 2016, where she currently holds the title of Associate Director of Fashion News (as well as the unofficial title of resident royal expert—in case you haven't noticed her numerous Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton stories). She spends her days trying to incorporate her idols, Anna Wintour and Roger Federer, into as many stories as possible. Outside of work, she loves tennis, classic rock, traveling, and smothering her dog with affection.