Before your favourite Gossip Girl [1] stars became onscreen style icons [2], they dabbled in the classic trends of the early 2000s. A look back at what Blake Lively [3] and Leighton Meester [4] wore during that era (tube tops and wide belts) confirms that they couldn't escape the fads of this definitive time in fashion. A lot of these trends have recently been making a comeback [5] and as long as low-rise jeans are left on the back-burner [6], we're here for it.
Even though some of these looks are a bit risky, the style of this era defined pop culture. We've all had a few of these nostalgic pieces in our closets [7]. Though the cast of Gossip Girl have gone through dramatic style transformations since then, we'll have fun reminiscing over these red carpet outfits. Keep reading to take a look back at what they wore before they hit the Upper East Side for a nostalgic blast from the past.
— Additional reporting by Paige Hagerman
Overly Cuffed Jeans
Low-rise jeans paired with heels, check. Belt, check. Tiny sweater, check. Blake Lively [8] was working all the early-2000s trends with this outfit.
The wedge platforms with the cuffed jeans really take Leighton Meester [9]'s look to the next level.
Belly-Baring Tops
The Hermes belt is definitely Lily van der Woodsen-approved.
We're kind of obsessed with Blake's accessories for this casual look.
Leighton's choker and scarf belt combo is the perfect ensemble for a 2000s red carpet 'fit.
Chunky Belts
Worn with a white tank top and jeans, of course.
Blake loved her belt so much, she wore it again on another occasion — this time with a pink henley shirt.
Tube Tops and Dresses
Ruched tube tops and dresses were all the rage during this time, like this one Blake wore to the 2005 Teen Choice Awards.
Leighton opted for a silk tube top to wear underneath her bomber, and paired it with slinky sandals.
It seems like Taylor Momsen took notes from Little J for this red carpet look.
We'd love to see Blake bring back the babydoll tube top trend.
Beaded Necklaces
Her bangles prove that this era was truly unmatched in the accessories category.
White Ribbed Tanks
These were essential for the early 2000s starlet, and it's no wonder that this closet staple is making a comeback.
Leighton's look was so2000s, with her beaded necklace and white tank top.
Halter Tops
Leighton called attention to the style by pinning a brooch right in the middle.
Thick Hemlines
Jessica Szohr [10] topped off this minidress with a clutch for the ultimate early '00s statement.