Forget "new year, new me." This year, the vibe shift is heading somewhere a little more familiar. Instead of reinventing the wheel with impossible resolutions and entirely new wardrobes, the internet has collectively decided to look backward for inspiration. Specifically, we are looking back to the golden era of the "Tumblr Girl," the King Kylie reign, and the peak of grid-pattern aesthetics.

That’s right: 2016 is back.

If you’ve been scrolling through TikTok lately, you’ve likely noticed the resurgence of a very specific energy. It was a time when messy buns were an art form, bomber jackets were non-negotiable, and your phone case was the most important accessory in your mirror selfie. As we head into the new year, the best style resolution you can make isn't about futurism—it’s about embracing the nostalgia of the recent past.

The Return of the 2016 Aesthetic

Fashion cycles are speeding up. We used to wait twenty years for a trend to come back around, but the internet has hit the fast-forward button. Suddenly, the defining trends of 2016 feel fresh again.

But what exactly does that look like? It’s a move away from the "clean girl" minimalism that dominated the last few years. 2016 fashion was a bit louder and a lot more fun. It was defined by choker necklaces, oversized denim jackets with patches, skater skirts, and heavy highlighter. It was the era of The 1975 playing in the background and curated chaos in your camera roll.

This revival is less about copying the look exactly and more about capturing the spirit. It’s about not taking your style too seriously and remembering that fashion is supposed to be expressive. It’s the perfect antidote to the pressure of strict New Year's resolutions.

Wildflower Cases: The Original "It Girl" Accessory

You can’t talk about the 2016 aesthetic without talking about Wildflower Cases. Founded by Devon and Sydney Carlson, the brand is practically synonymous with the era. They didn't just sell phone cases; they sold a lifestyle.

During the peak of Instagram’s rise, a Wildflower case was a signal. It meant you knew what was cool before everyone else did. The brand embodied that handmade, boutique feel that every "cool girl" wanted. Their designs—vintage florals, iconic flames, and standout pink styles—fit perfectly into the revived 2016 aesthetic because they never really left.

While other tech accessories leaned into boring utility or hyper-minimalism, Wildflower kept the fun alive. Bringing a Wildflower case into your New Year’s rotation is the easiest way to nod to the trend without looking like you’re wearing a costume. It’s an instant distinctive marker of taste that ties an outfit together, just like it did seven years ago.

How to Style Your Resolutions

So, how do you incorporate this nostalgia into your current style without looking dated? The key is mixing the old cues with modern silhouettes. Here is how to build a resolution-friendly wardrobe that honors the comeback:

Prioritize the Mirror Selfie

In 2016, the outfit didn't exist unless you took a picture of it in a dirty mirror. Make a resolution to document your style more. And since your phone is front and center in those shots, swap out that boring clear case for a bold Wildflower print. Let the accessory do the heavy lifting.

Mix High and Low

The 2016 look was heavily influenced by streetwear mixed with feminine touches. Try pairing an oversized vintage tee or a hoodie with a cute, patterned phone case and stacked jewelry. It’s about the contrast between comfort and curation.

Accessorize Everything

Minimalism is out; maximalism is in. Resolution number one? Don't be afraid of clutter. Layer your necklaces, stack your rings, and pick a phone case that clashes with your outfit in the best way possible. The goal is to look like you had fun getting dressed, not like you followed a strict set of rules.

Embrace the Nostalgia

As the new year begins, release the pressure to become a completely different person. The best parts of your style evolution might be things you loved years ago. Whether it’s the music, the attitude, or the accessories, the energy of 2016 offered a sense of digital community and creativity that is worth revisiting.

Grab your Wildflower case, put on your favorite playlist, and make this year about rediscovering what makes fashion fun.

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