Babydoll Tops? The Henley Top Deserves a Comeback Too.

Y2K+ Fashion for now

Mean Girls (2004) : Lindsay Lohan as Cady wearing a baby blue Henley top. Image: IMDB.

A recent microtrend making waves on TikTok is the Hollister babydoll top. For younger millennials and later Gen Z, this trend might bring back memories of the mid-to-late 2000s—think Twilight marathons, YouTube back-to-school hauls and Bath & Body Works candles. It’s a throwback to a simpler time.

But while babydoll tops are having their moment again, let’s not forget another classic: the Henley. This snug, button-front top was an everyday staple back then, with a laid-back charm that made it the perfect go-to piece. Whether paired with low-rise jeans and Converse for that effortlessly cool indie vibe or tucked into a mini skirt for a preppy twist, the Henley top was versatile, comfortable, and stylish. It’s time we gave it more love.

Henley Tops in Film: A Quiet Icon of 2000s Fashion

Henleys were more than just wardrobe staples; they were often seen in some of the most iconic teen films and TV shows of the 2000s, adding an approachable, down-to-earth touch to our favourite characters’ wardrobes. Here are some moments to look back on:

Mean Girls (2004). Image: IMDB.

• Mean Girls (2004) Cady Heron, played by Lindsay Lohan, brought a relaxed, authentic style to Mean Girls. Henley tops captured Cady’s down-to-earth vibe.

Zathura (2005). Image: Pinterest.

• Zathura (2005) Before Kristen Stewart was Bella Swan, she starred in Zathura as Lisa, with a layered Henley wardrobe. It was the epitome of mid-2000s casual style— effortless and relatable.

Twilight (2008). Image: Pinterest.

• Twilight Saga (2008-2012) Moving on to her role in Twilight, Kristen Stewart’s Bella Swan became the ultimate teen icon. Her wardrobe of Henleys and low-rise jeans perfectly captured the Pacific Northwest’s laid-back, everyday style that so many of us aspired to have back in 08.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (2009). Image: The Telegraph.

• Harry Potter Franchise (2001-2011) Even Hermione Granger, played by Emma Watson, sported Henleys, particularly in Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince above (2009). Paired with jeans, her look was a blend of casual comfort and practical style.

Cheaper By the Dozen (2003). Image: Business Insider.

• Cheaper by the Dozen (2003) Hilary Duff’s character, Lorraine Baker, embodied early 2000s fashion with Henley tops among her everyday looks. And it wasn’t just in Cheaper by the Dozen—Hilary’s Henley moments were also a staple in Lizzie McGuire, where her character often sported these tops, adding to the quintessential 2000s teen aesthetic.

Henley Styles on the Catwalk for 2024/25

Gucci Spring 2024

Gucci Spring 2024 - Grey bodysuit henley. Image: Vogue Runway.

Tom Ford Spring 2024

Tom Ford Spring 2024- Black bodysuit henley . Image: Vogue Runway.

ANDREADAMO Spring 2024

ANDREADAMO Spring 2024- White bodysuit henley. Image: Vogue Runway.

ACNE STUDIOS Spring 2024

ACNE STUDIOS Spring 2024 - Cream short sleeved henley. Image: Vogue Runway.

Chloe Resort 2025

Chloe Resort 2025 - Baby blue henley. Image: Vogue Runway.

Henley’s to Buy Now

If this article has you eager to add some Henleys to your current wardrobe, here are some picks that bring the 2000s charm into today’s fashion landscape:

• Zara – Ribbed Henley Bodysuit
  This bodysuit offers a fresh take on the classic Henley style in a warm, orange shade—perfect for autumn. Its fitted silhouette makes it ideal for layering or wearing on its own with high-waisted jeans, adding a touch of bold, cosy chic to any outfit.

• Ralph Lauren – Garment-Dyed Waffle-Knit Henley
  Made with stretch cotton, this Henley features a waffle-knit texture, garment-dyed and washed for a sun-faded look. A take on the classic, offering a lived-in aesthetic.

• Urban Outfitters (UK) – Out From Under Lovella Lace Hooded Henley Top

  A modern take on the Henley, featuring a lace hood for added style and comfort—perfect for layering over your favourite tank or bralette.

• H&M – Fine Knit Henley Top

  This sleek, fitted Henley works well for layering or wearing on its own, offering versatility for both casual and slightly dressed-up looks.

• Free People – Red Cashmere Henley
  So chic in cashmere, this cosy Henley features a slouchy, relaxed fit. Perfect for any season, it adds a touch of texture and luxe comfort to every outfit.

• Skims – Long Sleeve Henley Bodysuit

  Combining comfort with a chic, updated silhouette, this Henley bodysuit is perfect for pairing with high-waisted jeans or a mini skirt for a contemporary twist.

• Abercrombie & Fitch – Icon Henley Ribbed Top

  A nod to the classic, this ribbed Henley offers breathable comfort with a stylish edge, making it an easy go-to for everyday wear.

• Hollister – Ribbed Short Sleeve Icon Henley

  Staying true to its roots, this top captures the nostalgic essence of the original Henleys we all loved, but with fresh styling for today’s trends.