Even festive jewellery is enjoying a Y2K revival

I remember raiding my mom’s wardrobe after school as MTV looped the Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham soundtrack in the background. I’d slide into low-rise jeans, cinch a chunky belt, and layer on hoops, bangles, and chains. The early 2000s were a time when maximalism ruled and no outfit was complete without some bling. Fast forward to 2025, and those same accessories are everywhere again. But Gen Z’s Y2K revival isn’t nostalgia—it’s a reimagination.

Chain belts, anklets, and hair clips—the holy trinity of 2000s bling—have made a comeback, only sleeker and far more adaptable to traditional, fusion, and Western wear. What was once maximalist is now modular: crystal belts have reappeared as modern kamarbandhs draped over saris or skirts; slim anklets are being stacked and charmed; and hair accessories have transformed from functional to statement-making.

Designers are catching on. At Miu Miu, mixed-metal belts came layered and slung low on the waist, while Tarun Tahiliani’s latest collection, unveiled at Lakmé Fashion Week, used chain belts to further cinch his corset blouses. Anklets, meanwhile—long a symbol of femininity and grace in Indian culture—have re-emerged as a global fashion favourite, with barely-there versions appearing on everyone from Sabrina Carpenter and Kylie Jenner to Bella Hadid and Janhvi Kapoor.

And then there’s hair jewellery—the unexpected hero of 2025. The 2025 Met Gala saw a lot of jewel-studded hairdos: from Megan Thee Stallion’s diamond-studded sculptural ponytail to Isha Ambani’s Moi brooches perched on her head to accompany her polished braid. Crystal clip-ons and gilded pins are turning simple hairstyles into showstoppers.

The secret to a standout Diwali look might just be in these revived Y2K staples—versatile, nostalgic, and gleaming with possibility. It’s not just about bringing back the past; it’s also about reinterpreting it for right now.

Shine starts at the top

A good hairdo elevates your look, but accessories complete it. For instance, Jennifer Behr’s crystal hair magnets make your hair the highlight. Add a bit of drama to your sleek updo with an ornate Swarovski hairclip. Or, you can simply pull your hair in a cinched ponytail and add Deepa Gurnani’s star clips on the sides to make a statement.

All eyes on the midriff

Patrizia Pepe’s crystal-embellished belt works effortlessly with any silhouette. Layer it over a sari or use it as a statement piece between your shirt and palazzo pants to create a striking festive fusion look. If you want to add a touch of high glam, Valentino’s version has a crystal-studded monogram sparkling right at the centre and can anchor any outfit. For something cuter, Blumarine’s bow belt can secure your dupatta in place with the right amount of sparkle.

Tiny anklets, big energy

A chic way to elevate the bottom half of your look is adding a dainty anklet to the equation. Persée’s anklet has laser-drilled diamonds to create the illusion that they’re floating on your skin. Mizuki’s 14-carat gold and pearl anklet is a charming nod to classic luxury. To add the tiniest pop of colour, you can opt for Shay’s 18-carat rose gold anklet, which has mini heart-shaped pink sapphire.