The 2000s Called & They Want You To Wear Crystal Embellished Denim

Look, I love cold weather dressing as much as any other fashion girl in New York City. But at this point in the season, my tank for more winter outfit ideas is almost empty. That said, I’m nothing if not someone who loves rediscovering different ways to rework my wardrobe — and mindfully building on what I already have. So the other night I took to Instagram for inspiration, and stumbled upon something I could buy now to make my January layers more exciting: crystal embellished denim.

While the Y2K-approved look has been on hiatus for awhile, it’s back in full force for 2024. This time, however, instead of leaning into gaudy back pockets, designers are taking a more refined approach. During this past NYFW Spring/Summer 2024 season, Retrofete, who made its runway debut, presented crystal-covered slouchy jeans (with a matching jacket and bag to boot); meanwhile, Alice + Olivia’s latest show included denim festooned with pearls and rhinestones at the bottom.

Catwalks aside, contemporary, fashion girl-favorite brands are taking a stab at the dazzling denim trend. Just look to Reformation, who released an under-$200 shimmering high-rise look. Similarly, Madewell dropped limited-edition rhinestone-heavy jeans, which would look incredibly cool with a simple tee.

The thing I love most about this trend (other than the pure unadulterated joy that comes with paying homage to the early 2000s) is that even though it may seem dreamy and imaginative, it is actually wearable, and not just for a night out on the town. I plan to style it minimally with sneakers, my favorite white cropped T-shirt, and a grey chunky cardigan.

Ahead, shop my most coveted crystal denim styles. They will, in the words of Rihanna, make you “shine bright like a diamond.”