Is 2026 the new 2016? Inside the viral #BringBack2016 trend

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Summary:

  • Gen Z is embracing the nostalgia of 2016 with fashion trends and viral challenges on TikTok.

  • The “Clean Girl” aesthetic is being replaced with chokers and satin bomber jackets from the Mannequin Challenge era.

  • The reason behind Gen Z’s fascination with 2016 remains a mystery, sparking curiosity and discussion online.

Gen Z has officially declared a “factory reset” on pop culture.

The hashtag #BringBack2016 is taking over TikTok, with creators trading the “Clean Girl” aesthetic for chokers, satin bomber jackets, and the chaotic, unserious energy of the Mannequin Challenge era.

But why is an entire generation obsessed with this specific year?

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