These Nostalgic Brands Have Made a Comeback and They're Better Than You Remember

We said what we said. Their activewear line is a huge part of why we’re loving the new and improved Old Navy. This longline bra is comfortable, lightly supportive, and fits like a dream, whether we’re doing a Pilates class or running errands. The matching bike shorts are a must. ($10.97+, Old Navy)

Another reason we’re back at Old Navy like it’s 1999? The workwear. When we tried on these trousers, we found that the fit was perfect and loved that the waistband is elasticized in the back, so they stay comfortable for long hours sitting at a desk. The matching blazer makes getting dressed easy. ($18.47+, Old Navy)

Where do we even begin with Abercrombie’s heroic resurgence? With our favorite jeans, of course. These are our weekend warriors, our pride and joy, we’d be lost without them (Abercrombie, are you listening?). They’re high-rise with a slouchy straight leg that literally looks good with all our shoes. Grab them in multiple washes. You’ll be wearing these weekly. ($110, Abercrombie & Fitch)

The new, impossibly chic Abercrombie has outfitted us in some of our favorite wedding guest outfits. This strapless linen number in French Blue would be perfect for a spring or summer wedding, no matter the venue. Check out more of their dresses here. ($130, Abercrombie & Fitch)

We remember going to J.Crew as kids with our moms, but now that we’re looking for sophisticated pieces we can wear daily, there’s no better place. With a flattering square neckline and breezy linen fabric, this top will be making regular appearances in our spring and summer wardrobes. Pair it with jean shorts or the matching pants. ($64.50, J.Crew)

J.Crew swim, you’ll always be famous. This one-piece is made of soft, stretchy fabric that’s ruched to accentuate your waist. We love that the straps are removable so you can play around with the silhouette. The red or hot pink will turn heads. ($59.99+, J.Crew)

When Aerie first started as mainly intimates and pajamas, we never could have guessed how the brand would expand. We still love their underthings, but don’t sleep on the activewear. These leggings are great for any type of workout, from Pilates to running, and thanks to the V waist, they stay up and hug our curves. ($26.97+, Aerie)

And if you want your waist to be snatched at the beach, look no further. The same crossover style comes in a chic high-waisted black bottom that goes well with this top. Aerie swimsuits are affordable, but never skimp on quality. ($14.50, Aerie)

While vintage Levi’s have always been cool, we can’t resist adding to our denim collection with some fresh pairs. These are our go-to denim shorts, since they’re just slouchy enough to be comfortable and long enough to keep us covered. They look good with sneakers or sandals and get better with wear. ($69.50, Levi’s)

Yes, these are the jeans Sydney Sweeney wore in “Anyone But You” (stream it here if you haven’t seen it already). The fit is just right; they hug our curves in the right places but never feel too constricting. The straight leg is roomy without being overly baggy and looks good with any footwear. ($98, Levi’s)

These are not the Birkenstocks that have been around forever. These are made of flexible, cushioned material that’s waterproof and incredibly lightweight. Wear them to the pool, on the beach, or to get a pedicure. We find ourselves slipping into these regularly. Plus, they come in fun springy colors. ($49.95, Nordstrom)

We got these before a big trip where we knew we’d be walking a lot, and they really passed the test. The chunky silhouette is a bit trendier than the usual style, and they look equally cool with dresses and jeans. Though the price tag is a bit steeper than your traditional Birkenstock, trust us, they’ll last for years. ($220, Free People)

Even Taylor Swift. Polo is back in a big way, and in our opinion, it’s always been in style. This cotton chino hat is great for the beach, but also lends a cool girl vibe to a T-shirt and jeans or dress. It comes in several different colors, so take your pick. ($34.99+, Polo Ralph Lauren)

Name something more iconic than the Polo American flag sweater. We’ve seen a resurgence of brands copying it lately, so it must mean a new generation has found it. It’s an investment, but one your kids will be lucky to have passed down. ($398, Polo Ralph Lauren)

While Anthropologie never really needed a comeback, we think they’re chicer than they’ve ever been. We also love that their extended size offerings are really improving. This dress would look pretty on anyone, thanks to a zip-up front (so you can adjust how much skin you want to show) and a stretchy smocked waist. The yellow is so pretty for spring. ($170, Anthropologie)

From the flattering V-neck to the cinched waist, we can see why this cotton dress has so many fans. It’s comfortable, pairs well with almost any shoe, and goes from the office to an after-work happy hour with ease. The new lemon print is the perfect addition to your spring dress collection. ($168, Anthropologie)

Similar to Anthropologie, the site we perused in our teens for Doc Martens and band tees has stepped up their game when it comes to plus-size options. This dress from the Curve line is a showstopper. From the trendy green shade to the off-the-shoulder neckline to the draping ruffles, this one is begging for compliments. ($54.99, Asos)

These are the type of pants you see models wearing in the airport and they look impossibly put together. They're soft trousers with a “dad fit,” which basically means you can sit down in them without counting down the hours until you can take them off. They’ll quickly become your new favorites. ($45, Asos)

While we’ve been wearing this brand forever, the New Balance renaissance has brought out some of the coolest styles we’ve ever seen. These 990s come in a black and white colorway with a cream bottom that makes them look retro. They’re so cute with a dress but work well with leggings at the gym, too. ($209.99, New Balance)

These reissued basketball sneakers are so comfortable and look good with athleisure, dresses, and skirts. They came back in 2020 and have been a hit with the fashion crowd ever since. These can be difficult to find, so grab them before they’re gone. ($109.99, New Balance)

We’ll let you in on a little secret: We never got rid of our Uggs from our middle school days. So when they became acceptable to wear in public again, we were the first ones on that bandwagon. These ultra-minis are a more modern interpretation of our calf-height ones, and they’re the perfect slip-on-and-go shoe. They’re also great for padding around the house. ($150, Ugg)

There’s nothing better than a shearling-lined slipper you can also wear to go to the mailbox, to grab coffee, or when you’re headed to a workout class. Since they have a back, you won’t be slipping and sliding around too much. ($110, Ugg)

These running shoes brought Adidas back into our lives in a big way. They’re super cushioned and flexible, and they come in fun colors. You can bet we’re going on our daily walks in these. ($133+, Adidas)

And to round us out, here’s a little prediction for what’s about to have a big moment: track pants. Specifically classic styles like these. The loose fit is effortlessly cool, especially when you pair them with an unexpected shoe like a ballet flat. They also look cute with the matching jacket, of course. ($70, Adidas)