A recent video featuring a young thrift enthusiast has captured the attention of millions online. Gabriela Silva, known on social media as @vintageprincessxoxo, showcased her experience trying on a pair of Y2K low-rise jeans, a fashion trend from the early 2000s. The video, posted from her home in Burbank, California, has received over 436,000 likes and 4.2 million views, highlighting the growing interest in retro fashion among younger generations.
In her video, Silva expressed surprise at the extreme low-waisted design of the jeans. “Honestly? I was surprised by how uncomfortable—and low—they are,” she told Newsweek. Coming from a family with a rich history in vintage and antique dealing, Silva has always been open to exploring different fashion trends. The clip features her modeling the jeans, her astonishment evident as she notes the unconventional fit.
Silva reflected on her fashion influences, stating, “I feel so prudish, having grown up in the era of mom jeans and having a personal style that emulates Ms. Frizzle.” Ms. Frizzle, a character from the animated series The Magic School Bus, is known for her vibrant and eclectic outfits, contrasting sharply with the low-rise aesthetic.
As someone passionate about vintage clothing, Silva hopes to establish a fashion-based nonprofit that empowers individuals through style. Although she does not personally remember the low-rise jeans trend from the 1990s, she recounted hearing negative sentiments about the style. “Almost as if they were not to be spoken of—similar to Voldemort,” she quipped.
Trying on the jeans offered Silva a “completely new and very sensational experience.” She expressed disbelief that such jeans were once standard attire. “You mean to tell me these sort of jeans aren’t just for the weekends and bank holidays? How is that even possible?” she remarked, showcasing the generational gap in fashion trends.
Through the comments section of her video, Silva learned about the Y2K fashion rule that paired low-rise jeans with thongs. “I’m sorry, a what? I hardly own any!” she responded, humorously noting her unfamiliarity with the style. She attempted to recreate the look, often referred to as the “whale tail,” which was deemed essential by her “new millennial parents.”
Silva’s commentary on the cyclical nature of fashion highlights a broader trend where Gen Z shows increasing appreciation for styles from the 2000s. “We live in a time where fashion is a blank canvas for many, and low rise is definitely back for those who want it to be,” she stated, adding that she plans to embrace low-rise styles in the future. “I certainly will be rocking more low rise in 2026. Minus the lower back tattoo. But I am eyeing a navel ring!”
The viral video spurred a flurry of comments from viewers sharing their own memories related to low-rise jeans. One user, Cutrina Solomon, commented, “Look up Paris Hilton’s low-rise jeans—they can go lower,” while another user, Amanda, remarked, “Oh honey … those aren’t low-rise jeans. Those are ALMOST what was considered ‘mom jeans’ at the time.”
The conversation continued with Tiffany noting the cultural impact of low-rise jeans on thong popularity, and Becca humorously reflecting, “My 2000s low-rise jeans would be APPALLED by the size of my underwear now.”
As the fascination with Y2K fashion continues to grow, Silva’s experience serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of past styles on contemporary fashion. The dialogue surrounding these trends not only engages younger audiences but also brings to light the evolution of fashion preferences across generations.
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