All over social media platforms people have been raving about the new year becoming the past. People are bringing back so many trends of 2016 involving music, fashion and much more.
This viral social media trend of the nostalgia of 2016 brings back so many memories. 2016 is remembered as a more carefree time, simpler life before all the major global events like the pandemic hit. This remembered era was filled with specific music types, fashion icons, and popular apps that most of the young generation missed out on. The hope being the new year of 2026 hopefully brings back similar vibes.
2016 is more known as the last joyful year before COVID-19 which evolved into the raising of AI that has brought down all the younger generations’ innocence.
The major apps known in 2016 were Snapchat, where people were obsessed with funny filters like the dog ears or the flower crowns with a tinted background and attaching music to edits.
Bold makeup with cut creases and fashion trends that included chokers, bomber jeans jackets, and loose flowy dresses called slip dresses.
Aliso Niguel student Siena Lassegard (12) claims, “ I like that some brands are bringing back clothing lines and trends from 2016, it reminds me a lot of that time.”
Brands like Zara, Saint Lauren and more are bringing back those 2016 styles like jean jackets with prints on them, backless loafers, high-waisted skinny jeans, fringe tops and even graphic tees.
Pop culture during that year included iconic moments like Super Bowl 50 where the Denver Broncos defeated the Carolina Panthers 24-10 with their lead quarterback, Peyton Manning.
Hit songs written by Drake, Justin Bieber and especially The Chainsmokers became very popular. Justin Timberlake’s “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” The song was a major hit and reigned for many years.
As well as Rihanna’s “Work” song and Sia’s “Cheap Thrills” that are still well listened to this day. The Big Debut of Frank Ocean’s album “Blonde” took a major thrill of 2016 culturally and mentally for many people. Bruno Mars’ 24K Magic was announced in October 2016 with his comeback after four years with retro and a funk sound that led to highly popular and successful excitement throughout the year.
Millions of Instagram and Tiktok posts are featuring 2016 Hashtags nostalgically looking back and old photos or videos of themselves.
“The colors of 2016 were so bright and full of light. I loved making Snapchat videos with those funny little filters. Knowing that people are trying to bring it back makes it so real. I miss my childhood,” said Abigail Lee (12).
Most students at our high school remember this year as a significant time to remember when we were all younger and at the age where being a kid was fun and enticing.
In a world full of romanticized timelines and crazed eras, 2026 may finally stand out as a reset to the previously jumbled era. 2016 marks a moment of nostalgia and childhood memories where society has taken under its wing to bring back the past to make an easier future to live in.
