What I wore in HS 2016!

Wow, doesn't it feel like 2016 was just yesterday, yet also a lifetime ago? So many of us are looking back at that era with total nostalgia, especially when it comes to high school fashion. It wasn't just about what *I* wore, but what everyone seemed to be rocking. It was such a distinct time for teen style, a bit of a bridge between the early 2010s and what we see today, really solidifying some trends while hinting at others. When we talk about 2016 high school fashion, one thing immediately comes to mind: skinny jeans. They truly reigned supreme! Whether they were dark wash, light wash, ripped, or distressed, you couldn't go wrong. We paired them with just about everything. And complementing those jeans, graphic tees were absolutely everywhere. From band tees to ironic sayings or pop culture references, a good graphic tee was a staple. I remember everyone had their go-to, often tucked in or worn with a casual knot at the side. Comfort was definitely key, which brings us to the glorious era of leggings as pants. Yes, I said it! Black leggings were a daily uniform for many, perfect for those long school days. They were often styled with oversized sweaters, tunics, or even under those popular striped jackets or classic denim jackets that added a cool, effortless layer. Speaking of jackets, bomber jackets were also really starting to pick up steam, giving any outfit an instant cool factor. For tops, the off-the-shoulder top and its cousin, the cold-shoulder top, were incredibly popular. They were perfect for school dances, weekend outings, or just feeling a little dressier without too much effort. I saw so many patterned off-the-shoulder tops, often in floral or geometric designs, that felt so chic at the time. Accessories really helped define our 2016 looks. Chokers were a huge comeback trend – velvet, tattoo, or layered delicate ones, everyone had at least a few! We also saw a lot of simple headbands or even bandanas used to tie back hair. And let’s not forget the glasses trend; big glasses became a fashion statement, often paired with eye-catching accessories like big earrings to complete the look. For footwear, while sneakers like Vans and Converse were staples, tall boots were essential, especially when paired with leggings or over skinny jeans. Ankle boots were also a versatile choice. Makeup and hair were also evolving. While some of us were still figuring things out, there was a general move towards more defined brows (the start of the "Instagram brow" era!), winged eyeliner, and matte liquid lipsticks were just starting to really hit it big. Hair was often kept casual – messy buns, half-up styles, or just naturally wavy. And for those of us navigating our teen years, having braces was just part of the journey, often adding to that genuine high school aesthetic. Looking back, 2016 high school fashion felt like a unique blend of comfort, subtle rebellion, and truly experimenting with trends that felt unique to our generation. It wasn't always glamorous, but it was authentic to us. It's funny how quickly styles come and go, but the memories of those outfits, those graphic quote tees, and those trusty skinny jeans, stick with us. It makes you wonder what future generations will look back at from today's trends with the same fond nostalgia!