The trend that is taking social media by storm isn’t a product or even the newest restaurant, but rather a year. The 2016 aesthetic is gaining popularity on social media, giving viewers a throwback to pre-pandemic life.

Many students have been influenced by social media to also participate in the trends. From the purple-toned grainy filters to the 2010s radio, many students are raving about the nostalgic feeling that the trend brings

East senior Jasmine Gallegos has been keeping up with the 2016 trends on social media, even recreating some videos that she’s created on the old platform ‘Musical.ly’.

“I really like that Tik Tok is like musical.ly so I can recreate my old videos and put them side by side,” Gallegos said.

The 2016 trend is influenced by 2010s music. Popular audios used on ‘TikTok’ include music from Halsey, The Chainsmokers, and Calvin Harris. These audios usually feature catchy lyrics and energetic beats.

Brynn Lange, a senior at East, listens to similar artists from the 2010s and highlights Zara Larsson as one of her favorites.

“I really like symphony by Zara Larsson,” Lange said,” This era of music is just so vibey and good, I can just get down to it.”

Another large part of this viral trend is fashion. The 2016 trend is highlighted by heavily distressed denim, chokers, bomber jackets, and athleisure wear. Students at East can be seen mimicking these styles but with modern twists such as colors or brands.

Senior Keelan Quick has stayed caught up on this recent fashion comeback and has even been influenced to buy some new clothes because of it.

“I think the lace tank tops are very cute. I just bought some for myself,” Quick said.

East is throwing it back to the 2010s with many students reminiscing on their childhood and good memories that they made when they were younger. Many are starting to live 2026 like it is 2016, a simpler time.

Written by senior Hayden Mulacek. Edited by staff writers for Oswego East’s online news magazine The Howl.