The “Y2K problem” engendered a litany of concerns ... In 1995, Gap introduced the arch logo hoodie as a kids-only exclusive; in 1998, it migrated to the men’s section, too.

Think of McBling as a glitzier evolution of Y2K. Grounded in the idea of conspicuous consumption, the flashy style emerged roughly after 9/11, when political leaders encouraged Americans to spend ...