Just like the fashion of every past decade, the late ’90s and early ’00s are making a comeback—and new pieces from the era are returning to the zeitgeist at lightening speed. Think: slinky halter tops, butterfly clips, chunky statement jewelry, and (as you might have guessed) tube tops. (!) Yes, the tube top is back on our radar—but it’s both better and more size-inclusive than ever.
While the style itself hasn’t really changed at all, the pieces we have to pair it with have evolved in the best ways. Low-rise velour pants have been replaced with high-waisted joggers. Patchwork Bermuda shorts are now Princess-Diana-approved bike shorts. Knee-length denim skirts have turned into preppy pleated minis. Essentially, anything you would have paired with plus-size tube tops in the Y2K era has been massively updated—making this trend incredibly easy to wear in the year 2021.
During the late ’90s and early aughts, we really weren’t giving tube tops the tools they needed to succeed. But now that we’re well-equipped with clothing that (hopefully) won’t make us cringe in 10 years, this trend can shine like the star she is. Not to mention, the availability of tube tops in plus sizes has expanded tenfold. From sporty-chic tube tops—for casual weekends or low-key coffee dates—to statement tube tops—for nights out on the town—the possibilities feel limitless.
So grab your sturdiest strapless bra (Or go bra-less. The world is your oyster.) and slip on a trendy bandeau top this season. Paired with your coziest sweatpants or sexiest jeans, you can’t go wrong with plus-size tube tops. Y2K is back, baby.