The ’90s are back. If you need proof, just go on Instagram or TikTok, where you’ll find all of your favorite Gen Z pop stars, like Addison Rae and Ice Spice, with a sparkly gemstone on their navel. Rae gave her fans a small glimpse of her new bling on an Instagram carousel from the Charli XCX Boiler Room set—paired with her vintage bralette—for a look that was absolutely “2 Die 4”.
During the late ’90s and early 2000s, navel jewelry was a popular trend amongst celebrities like Britney Spears and Beyoncé. However, the fad slowly faded away into the 2010s, with more and more young performers coming out of the Disney Channel and Nickelodeon networks. But the piercing has slowly been making a comeback in recent years. Billie Eilish was spotted with some belly bling on her social media, and the accessory got the fashion stamp of approval when Daniel Roseberry made a custom Schiaparelli look for Margot Robbie that featured a fitted corset gown with a navel ring on the bodice that gave the illusion of a piercing.
At last night’s Vanity Fair Oscar party, the stars made a case for the piercing in 2024 in sheer and sexy looks. Rapper Ice Spice proved that jewelry isn’t needed when your rhinestone piercing pops through your lace Dolce & Gabbana look. And former but not yet retired pop stars like Vanessa Hudgens also endorsed the trend, proving that even in maternity style, there’s always room for a piercing.
With the overwhelming influence of Addison Rae and Ice Spice on Gen Z, it wouldn’t be surprising to see this trend everywhere in 2024. It’s even started making appearances in street style, along with ’90s baby tees. But be warned of the pain that comes with a navel piercing before making any rash decisions!