I think the idea of being a nerd is changing. A lot of successful and popular people these days would have been considered nerds and uncool 20 years ago. Fashions tend to change, and they come and go. Nerds are becoming more accepted, and they are being more respected for their intelligence and abilities (as opposed to how they dress or act).
Its pretty amazing how trends change. Something that is not accepted now, may be accepted and considered cool in the future (and vice versa).