The Y2K Trend That Lauren Conrad Continues to Adore

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      Lauren Conrad Discusses Laguna Beach Reunion, Nostalgia, and Her Favorite 2000s Fashion Trends - YouTube

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      Before Lauren Conrad became a style icon on The Hills, she gained fame from the MTV series Laguna Beach. She believes one reason Laguna Beach has had a lasting impact on culture is its relatability, as many people have experienced the crucial transition of being a high school student. "It’s that moment in life where everything’s about to shift," Conrad remarked. "You’re about to leave your hometown, and it’s thrilling yet daunting. A lot of people can identify with that." In the latest episode of The Who What Wear Podcast, Conrad discusses her sources of fashion inspiration during the show, her thoughts on recreating Laguna Beach today, the Y2K trend she still favors, and more. For highlights from their conversation, see below.

      Laguna Beach ran for just three seasons, and you and the original cast only appeared in two, yet the show's cultural impact has endured for two decades. Why do you think it has captivated audiences for so long? I believe it’s that pivotal moment in life when everything is on the verge of changing. You’re about to leave your hometown, which is both exciting and intimidating, and many people relate to that experience.

      If Laguna Beach were to air today, how do you think it would differ, considering the unavoidable influences of social media, influencer marketing, and stylists? I don’t think the same show could exist in today’s environment. I’m not sure what it would resemble. Part of the show's charm was that we were unaware of what we didn’t know. We didn’t filter ourselves or hold back. There were no stylists or makeup artists; we simply threw on tank tops and showed up to film. I think that’s what gives it an authentic feel. We weren’t doing it to launch a brand, like many do today—smart as that is; we didn’t even know that was an option. We were just excited not to have summer jobs and thought it would just be a fun experience without expecting it to air.

      I genuinely think we wouldn’t have worn layered tank tops so confidently without seeing you and your friends on Laguna Beach in the early 2000s. I’m curious, at that time, where did you find your fashion inspiration? From my friends. We all dressed similarly. There were a few local boutiques we shopped at. We’d wear Miss Sixty jeans, maybe a studded belt, layer some tanks, pair them with Rocket Dogs—easy as that. We weren’t really thinking about how we dressed; we didn’t say, "This will be on TV, let’s take time to prepare." Often, we just rolled out of bed. We were teenagers.

      Rocket Dog

      Crush Platform Flip Flop Sandals

      What’s one trend from back then that you still embrace or would wear and enjoy today? I’ve always worn Ugg boots. They were incredibly popular.

      There are low-rise jeans, oversized sunglasses, flip-flops. I actually have always loved big sunglasses. I’m a bit peculiar; I commit to a style since I need special lenses for migraines. When I find a style I like, I buy it in multiple colors and get all the necessary lenses. Every few years, I refresh my collection. Right now, my sunglasses are smaller because I play a lot of tennis and want the ability to wear them while playing. But I’ve always preferred larger shades—the bigger, the better. I love oversized sunglasses.

      DIOR

      Wildior BU Cat-Eye Sunglasses

      This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.