A questionable time in the sartorial scriptures that receives all the flak but continues to be all the rage—that’s Y2k for you. With the return of trends such as belly chains, trucker hats, low-waisted jeans (*shudders*), etc, there’s no denying that the early aughts have checked in for a 2021 takeover. Amongst the many other trends revived from the fashion purgatory in the past months, the butterfly motif is slowly but surely fluttering its way back into our wardrobes. From applique features on crop tops to butterfly clips and accessories, this winged insect is coming out of its cocoon, much like us all.
But why now, you wonder? Narrating a story of metamorphosis, butterflies symbolise the growth and evolution we’ve experienced in the past year. However, as tempting as it may be to layer this trend with deeper meaning, the appeal might just be a lot more straightforward—it’s fun, it’s light-hearted, it’s kitsch. Adding a sparkle of sweet nostalgia and playfulness to the dreary mood of 2021, the butterfly motif is a hit with celebrities and masses alike.
The Past
If the sound of butterfly clothing doesn’t automatically trigger a visual of Mariah Carey at the VH1 Divas 2000 red carpet, you’re missing out on some quality y2k content. The pop sensation turned heads in a shimmering, rhinestone-covered butterfly top paired with low-rise jeans. And who can forget that iconic butterfly Versace dress worn by Christina Aguilera and Naomi Campbell? Other stars of the noughties constellation that helped the butterfly take flight include celebrities Britney Spears, Tyra Banks, Jennifer Aniston and Salma Hayek. They set the foundation of what would go on to be the hottest “it girl” motif of the time.
The Present
We may not have a Mariah Carey but we do have Dua Lipa. One scroll through her Instagram will have you questioning if you’ve really woken up in the y2k. From butterflies on robes to halter necks, her fondness for the motif is evident. Taking it a notch higher, she recreated famous y2k looks at the 2021 Grammy awards and her album success party, wearing custom Versace. Speaking of recreating outfits, Olivia Rodrigo looked ravishing as she put her spin on the iconic butterfly top earlier this year. Another familiar face who’s heading the trend bandwagon is Bella Hadid. With butterfly clips in her hair and monarch buckle belts around her waist, even her name on Instagram has a butterfly emoji next to it. From Priyanka Chopra’s butterfly bodycon dress at the BAFTAs to Kylie Jenner’s butterfly-themed birthday party for Stormi, it’s safe to say that this y2k motif is officially back!
Images via : Instagram & Pinterest
