Everyone just collectively decided that 2016 is the new 2026—and honestly, we love to see it!
Photo: Kylie Jenner, Bretman Rock, LilyMayMac/Instagram
From the iconic Snapchat dog and flower crown filters, viral songs that dominated everyone’s playlists, fun internet challenges, to pastel aesthetics and grungy, Tumblr-inspired fashion, 2016 was truly the year when everyone was online and having the time of their lives.
And now, the internet can’t help but feel nostalgic! Whether it’s reminiscing about a crazy, abundant life once lived, missing a time when trends felt more organic and carefree, or remembering a time when the internet felt more “real” rather than being overly curated and branded, it’s always nice to pause, look back, and cherish the fun memories of the past while also finding ways to make the present (and future) just as enjoyable.
Indeed, 2016 was an unforgettable era, made even better thanks to the celebrities and online figures who shaped it. They defined trends and created moments that continue to influence pop culture today, while also giving people the freedom to express themselves authentically and creatively in ways that truly resonated with them.
Fast forward to 2026, and your favorites are taking us on a trip down memory lane, sharing throwback photos that instantly bring those moments back into our lives.
1. Kylie Jenner
Kylie Jenner definitely dominated 2016.
Photo: Kylie Jenner/Instagram
From the viral Kylie Lip Kits and iconic Coachella fits to her unforgettable pink and teal hair, Kylie truly lived her best life that year, and the entire internet was there to witness it. Ten years later, she’s reminding the world exactly who’s still on top.
“You just had to be there,” she captioned her Instagram post.
2. Brandon Woelfel
For those who have been chronically online since 2016, you’ve definitely come across Brandon Woelfel, who went viral for his whimsical, luminous shots. His photos were everywhere at the time—everyone started experimenting with their own cameras too, playing with fairy light strings, bokeh effects, and all.
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A decade later, this photographer showed why his photographs have truly stood the test of time.
“I heard we’re bringing 2016 vibes to 2026, so here’s my contribution,” he posted.
3. Bretman Rock
Bretman Rock didn’t just hop on the trend; he was the trend.
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Back when YouTube was at its peak, Bretman Rock (now regarded as one of the OGs of the beauty community) had everyone tuned in for his makeup tutorials as well as his funny, relatable vlogs with his sister, Princess. It’s safe to say that he helped raise a generation of queer beauty creators, all while staying authentic, chill, and refreshingly unproblematic.
“2016 was a movie…. A horror movie, but a movie nonetheless,” he wrote.
4. LilyMayMac
Whether you admit it or not, her photos were everywhere in 2016.
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Filipino-Australian model LilyMayMac truly personified the 2016 aesthetic in a way that thousands (if not millions) of young girls tried to replicate. She has always been that girl, and as she looks back on that era a decade later, she’s nothing but grateful.
“2026 is the new 2016? If so, yes please,” she shared. “2016 was one of the best years of my life-I honestly feel this was the year my life had just started. So many firsts & so much excitement!”
5. Connor Franta
You really just had to be there.
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Anyone who was active on YouTube and Tumblr in 2016 definitely knew who Connor Franta was. From his lifestyle vlogs and his iconic online presence, Connor became one of the most recognizable digital creators of the time. He also proved that internet influence could grow into something bigger and more meaningful—using his platform to inspire and create safe spaces for the LGBTQ+ community.
“Put on my flower crown. Resurrected my iphone 6. Logged into tumblr. Ordered 27 avocado toasts,” he wrote.
ALSO READ: LOOK: Bretman Rock Shares Highlights of His Trip to the Philippines
