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If you were getting dressed in 2010, you probably remember the uniform. Peplum tops, bib necklaces layered over everything, and a military jacket thrown over a bandage dress for a night out. For a long time, those outfits lived firmly in the cringey-throwback-photo category. Lately, though, I keep spotting the same pieces on my feed, and they look surprisingly good.
Fashion runs on a roughly 15-year cycle, so the timing tracks. The difference now is all in the styling. These pieces are showing up one at a time, paired with cleaner basics, instead of piled on all at once. Keep scrolling for the eight 2010 trends that are officially cool again and how to wear each one now.
Peplum
Peplum was everywhere in 2010, usually on a skintight top or dress. The new version is softer and more architectural, with a subtle flare at the waist instead of a dramatic ruffle. I’ve been wearing a peplum top with straight-leg jeans or nice skirt for girl’s nights out.
Sculptural Sleeveless Knitted Top
Duchesse Satin Peplum Zip Blouse
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Statement Necklace
Remember the bib necklace? It was the go-to way to dress up a plain tee or a button-down, and it was usually big, sparkly, and a little loud. This time around, it’s back as a single bold piece, like a gold or silver chain or an oversize pendant, wear it over knits or a simple dress.
Flannel
Flannel was the unofficial uniform of 2010, tied around the waist or worn open over a band tee. Now it’s getting a more grown-up treatment. Try an oversize flannel shirt as a light jacket over a slip skirt, or tied around the waist.
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Winnie Button Down Flannel
Military Jacket
With its brass buttons and strong shoulders, the military jacket was one of the biggest outerwear trends of the era. It’s back for fall, but it got remixed. It’s less loose and more structured. It’s the easiest way to add some edge to any look.
Mercer Regalia Wool Blazer
Wool Napolean Military Jacket
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Distressed Bag
Slouchy, worn-in leather bags were an It-girl staple in 2010, and the more broken-in they looked, the better. Remember the Balenciaga City Bag era? After years of stiff, structured top handles, that lived-in feel is back. A distressed bag makes even a polished outfit feel more relaxed.
Small Le City Leather Satchel
Multipocket Leather Shoulder Bag
Soft Empire Carryall Bag 48
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Bandage Dresses
The bandage dress defined going-out style in 2010. Today’s version leans longer and less shiny, with thicker ribbed knits and more muted colors. Style one with a tailored blazer or an oversize leather jacket and it feels completely current.
40th Anniversary the Red Carpet Minidress
Leopard Print
Leopard never fully left, but in 2010 it was at full volume, from leopard scarves to head-to-toe leopard dresses. This season, it’s showing up in more polished ways, like a leopard coat, a calf-hair flat, or a silk midi skirt. Treat it like a neutral and pair it with black, camel, or denim.
Medium Icare Leopard Print Genuine Calf Hair Shopping Tote
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Livvy Leopard-Print Pants
