Fashion! Art! Music! The home of Blink Friction a UK-based creative collective that merges sustainable fashion, collectible art, and rare books into a unique cultural experience. Founded by artist and musician Sarnia de la Maré FRSA, the brand champions eco-conscious design, artistic storytelling, and community engagement.​

Apr 25, 2025

What is Y2K? An era of fashion and art that is now becoming collectable.


Y2K, short for the year 2000, refers to a cultural and aesthetic trend rooted in the late 1990s and early 2000s, particularly in fashion and art. It's characterized by a mix of futuristic, retro, and sometimes even "tacky" elements, reflecting the era's optimism about technology and pop culture.

Fashion:
Nostalgic and Retro:
Y2K fashion brings back iconic trends from the late 90s and early 00s, including low-rise jeans, crop tops, and chunky sneakers.

Futuristic and Metallic:
Influenced by the promise of a new millennium, Y2K fashion often incorporates metallics, glitter, and playful accessories.

Pop Culture References:
Elements like logos, bright colors, and references to pop stars and television shows from the era are common.

Digital and Techy:
Y2K fashion also draws inspiration from technology, with digital prints and futuristic silhouettes.


Art:
Digital and Graphic:
Y2K art often features bold colors, graphic designs, and digital-looking textures.

Cyberpunk and Futuristic:
The aesthetic can lean towards a cyberpunk or futuristic style, reflecting the optimism and anxieties surrounding the digital age.

Retro and "Tacky" Elements:
Y2K art can embrace a playful, even slightly "tacky" style, drawing on the era's embrace of kitsch and pop culture.

Celebration of Technology:
The rise of the internet and digital media is a key influence on Y2K art, which often reflects the excitement and anxieties associated with this new technology.