why is y2k so expensive

It's not if you thrift your stuff

A lot of the cost for y2k stuff recently has been caused by tiktok tbh. the rise in popularity causes the prices to rise shits a simple supply and demand case. I would 100% recommend thrifting for ur clothes if ur serious about this cuz with some time and effort u can get gas shit for like $5 each.

Honestly, go to the thrift store if you can. Much cheaper and a lot of the items are authentically from that era - typically resulting in a better quality item that will last anyway. I know thrift stores are getting more expensive overall, but you definitely won't be spending $70 on a pair of jeans there.

because stuff from 20 years ago is popular now and people want to profit off of it

I’d say thrifting and diy is your best bet to make things cheaper, tons of older diy tutorials from the 2000s on how to alter ur clothes :333