Under Rihanna’s Creative Eye, Y2K Fashion is Reborn

Even fashion icons like Rihanna have their style regrets. The multi-talented superstar, known for her bold and trendsetting fashion choices, recently opened up about one outfit from the 2000s that still makes her cringe. In a candid moment of reflection, Rihanna admitted to wondering, “What the f— was I thinking?” when looking back at the ensemble.

The Outfit in Question

While Rihanna didn’t hold back in expressing her regret, the outfit in question is a snapshot of early 2000s fashion: a time defined by low-rise jeans, chunky belts, and daring, often experimental looks. Rihanna, just stepping into the spotlight at the time, donned an ensemble that many fans might remember as quintessentially “of the era.”

From glittery accessories to mismatched prints, the outfit embodied the maximalist trends of the early millennium. Though it may have fit the style of the time, it’s clear that Rihanna’s current polished aesthetic no longer aligns with the look.

A Lesson in Growth

Rihanna’s honesty about her past fashion missteps is a reminder that even style icons evolve. Over the years, she has transformed into a fashion powerhouse, launching her own lines like Fenty Beauty and Savage x Fenty and dominating the red carpet with her daring, high-fashion ensembles.

Reflecting on her early style, Rihanna said,
“Back then, I was just experimenting and figuring out what worked for me. It’s all part of the journey.”

Rihanna is looking back on her style evolution.

On Monday, Dec. 23, TikTok user Mystery Fashionist spoke to the singer about her style choices—past and present. The mom of two is widely known for her daring, trailblazing and even empowering looks and fashion philosophies.

For the video interview, Rihanna, 36, donned a khaki-colored suede coat with fur lining and paired it with black baggy pants, a baseball cap, and pointed toe heels. She wore an emerald green handkerchief tied around her neck and kept her hair down, and finished the look with a bulky black leather belt with silver hardware.

“I love it. It’s giving a little Christian Dior,” she said about her outfit that she rated a 10, pointing out the sleeves of her jacket. She also highlighted her YSL pants, boots, and belt.

Fans React

As always, Rihanna’s candor sparked plenty of reactions on social media. Many fans appreciated her ability to laugh at herself and relate to the universal experience of regrettable fashion choices.

One fan tweeted:
“If Rihanna can regret her 2000s outfits, there’s hope for all of us who wore butterfly clips and cargo pants!”

Another joked:
“Rihanna roasting her own outfit is peak 2000s nostalgia. We all had those moments.”

A Fashion Evolution

From her early days in the industry to her current status as a style icon, Rihanna’s journey is a testament to the power of personal growth and reinvention. Her willingness to take risks—whether in fashion, music, or business—has made her one of the most influential figures in pop culture today.

Even as she laughs at her past mistakes, Rihanna’s early experimentation laid the groundwork for the bold, confident style she embodies now.

Rihanna’s reflection on her 2000s outfit is a refreshing reminder that even the most fashionable among us have moments of doubt. Her ability to own her past choices with humor and grace only solidifies her status as a relatable and inspiring icon. After all, every fashion journey comes with a few missteps—but it’s how you own them that truly defines your style.