Justin Timberlake hopes everyone forgets his infamous denim look from AMAs

The singer reflects on his unforgettable fashion blast from the past.

February 2, 2021, 10:31 AM

Justin Timberlake is still ruing the day he decided that it was a good idea to wear denim to the 2001 American Music Awards.

He and then-girlfriend Britney Spears hit the red carpet with matching outfits, with the pop princess sporting a jean dress while Timberlake settled for a three-piece denim suit and hat.

The "Can't Stop the Feeling" singer appeared Monday on The Hollywood Reporter's songwriter roundtable and had to endure some teasing from his fellow A-listers when they celebrated the 20th anniversary of his fashion faux pas.

"I confess that there was maybe a period in the '90s where I could skip over some of the outfits that were public, but the internet will never," said Timberlake when reflecting on his early music days.

John Legend, who was also part of the roundtable, cackled, "Denim on denim on denim on denim that will never be forgotten!"

"Thanks, John," Timberlake deadpanned. "The internet won't allow me to forget them."

PHOTO: Justin Timberlake at the The 28th Annual American Music Awards, Jan. 8, 2001.
Justin Timberlake at the The 28th Annual American Music Awards, Jan. 8, 2001.
Kmazur/WireImage via Getty Images, FILE

Despite wishing he could shake some fashion sense into his younger self, the "Palmer" star admits that he's not losing sleep over his past mistake by admitting, "It's all good."

While wearing jeans to the American Music Awards is among his worst ideas, Timberlake also revealed that he hopes his theme for 2021 will be "redemption," saying "if you make a really big mess, it takes a little longer to clean up, you know?"

Timberlake and Spears wore their matching denim outfits on Jan. 8, 2001 -- both were nominated that year for internet fans artist of the year.

Timberlake, who was part of NSYNC at the time, took home the trophy.

The "Cry Me a River" singer recently celebrated his 40th birthday and received a loving message from his wife, Jessica Biel.

In an Instagram post, Biel said "the most creative and fulfilling year to date. Happy 40th, my love."