In the past five years, it is safe to say that Generation Z and Alpha have begun to emulate the fashion trends from bygone eras in an attempt to revitalize them. This sudden influx in fashion forward individuals has really shown that what goes around comes around. Styles that used to be considered antiquated have become retro and sought out.

One of the first instances of a decade’s defining trends being inspired by those before it is one that most people take after even today: the 1960s. On top of that, it was also the first notable instance of the 20 year rule, as it was a revival of the 1940s and 1950s. Early into the decade, people saw the return of the “Jackie Look,” which introduced boxy suit jackets and pillbox hats. Later on, when the Counterculture Movement took the world by storm, military clothing from the 1940s wartime era were worn as a stylistic rebellion of sorts. At the same time, thrifting was truly born not only as a counterculture fashion statement, but to also meet the needs of those during the Great Depression.

Fast forwarding to the 1990s, a new interpretation of the 1970s arose, while bringing remnants of other eras along for the ride. The 1990s brought back 1970s trends like platform shoes, patchwork and denim-on-denim. Fashion in skate culture was a staple of the decade that owes itself to the 1980s, heralding the birth of loose clothing and bright colors. The 1960s also made a comeback, mainly seeing a rise in the popularity of bell bottoms.

Come 2026, and we’re seeing remixes of many vastly different time periods and with this, the gap between decades we’re inspired by closes faster and faster. Recent years have seen a resurgence of numerous eras, from the 1990s and its perfect blend of the past, the 1960s and its vintage vibes, and even the beginnings of a 2010s rebound in the previous two months, which raises the question of whether or not the 20 year rule will still stand in the future or if it will be considered obsolete by our yearning for the past.