The 'Things We're Bringing Back in the 2020s' meme format emerged as a reflection of the cyclical nature of culture, heavily influenced by the resurgence of early 2000s (Y2K) aesthetics and 90s nostalgia. It typically features a list or a specific item—ranging from wired headphones and digital cameras to specific slang or fashion trends—that has regained popularity among Gen Z and Millennials. The meme is used both sincerely to celebrate the return of beloved classics and ironically to mock the recycling of outdated or controversial trends. It gained significant traction on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where creators showcase how the 2020s have become a curated remix of previous decades.