Generation Z (born approximately between 1997 and 2012) has introduced a variety of trends that often perplex older generations. Here are some notable examples:
1. Low-Rise Jeans
Gen Z has revived low-rise jeans, a fashion trend from the early 2000s. While Millennials associate them with past fashion mishaps, Gen Z embraces them confidently. The low-slung waistlines create a carefree, rebellious vibe. This resurgence in popularity is not just about nostalgia but also about redefining body positivity. By challenging conventional fashion norms, young people are embracing their unique body shapes. For some, it’s a daring choice, but for others, it’s a statement of freedom. It’s a trend that’s not just about the jeans themselves, but about expressing individuality and confidence.
2. BeReal Over Instagram
Prioritizing authenticity, Gen Z favors BeReal, an app that encourages unfiltered snapshots of daily life, over the curated aesthetics of Instagram. This shift represents a hunger for genuine connections. In an age where digital personas often mask true identities, BeReal offers spontaneity. Users capture raw moments, devoid of editing and filters, making everyday life the highlight. It’s a rebellion against the polished perfectionism of previous social media eras. The app’s popularity underscores a broader cultural movement towards transparency and authenticity. For Gen Z, realness trumps illusion.
3. Middle Parts > Side Parts
The preference for middle parts over side parts in hairstyles has become a defining trend for Gen Z, challenging previous norms. This hair trend is more than just a style choice; it’s a cultural statement. By rejecting the side part, once a staple in Millennial fashion, Gen Z asserts its identity. Middle parts evoke a sense of balance and symmetry, aligning with the minimalist aesthetic favored by many. This simple yet impactful change symbolizes a new era of self-expression. It’s not just about hair, it’s about embracing change.
4. Claw Clips Over Hair Elastics
Gen Z has brought back claw clips, a 1990s hair accessory, favoring them over traditional hair elastics. This retro accessory offers a mix of functionality and fashion. Claw clips provide a quick, chic way to style hair, appealing to those who value convenience and creativity. They are versatile, allowing for various hairstyles, from messy buns to elegant twists. This trend is about more than just hair; it’s about reviving forgotten styles with a fresh perspective. By embracing claw clips, Gen Z honors the past while making it relevant today.
5. Y2K Revival (Including Trucker Hats)
Embracing early 2000s fashion, Gen Z has popularized items like Juicy Couture tracksuits and Von Dutch trucker hats. This revival is fueled by nostalgia and the desire to reinterpret past styles. Y2K fashion is quirky, bold, and unapologetically fun. It represents a playful rebellion against the understated trends of today. Trucker hats, once a symbol of casual cool, are back with a vengeance. For Gen Z, the Y2K revival is not just fashion; it’s a way to create a unique identity. It’s past meets present, with a twist.
6. Digital Burnout > Hustle Culture
Gen Z challenges the traditional “hustle culture” by prioritizing mental health and advocating for a balanced lifestyle. This shift reflects a growing awareness of the impacts of constant connectivity. Rather than glorifying exhaustion, young people seek fulfillment beyond work. The rise of digital burnout has led to a reevaluation of success and happiness. Gen Z promotes downtime and self-care, rejecting the notion that busyness equals worth. This trend is about creating space for reflection and peace. It’s a new way of living that champions well-being over productivity.
7. IRL Activism with a Side of TikTok
Combining real-life activism with TikTok, Gen Z uses the platform to amplify social justice causes. This innovative approach merges digital savvy with passionate advocacy. Young activists leverage TikTok’s reach to spread awareness and mobilize support. It’s a dynamic fusion of online and offline efforts, creating a powerful force for change. TikTok becomes a stage for amplifying voices and inspiring action. This trend reflects a commitment to making a difference in ways that are both immediate and impactful. For Gen Z, activism is a lifestyle, not just a moment.
8. Gender-Neutral Fashion
Gen Z embraces inclusive fashion, breaking traditional gender norms and promoting gender-neutral styles. This trend is about acceptance and individuality, transcending categories. It’s a reflection of a broader cultural shift towards diversity and equality. By rejecting rigid gender binaries, young people celebrate freedom of expression through clothing. Gender-neutral fashion is not just a style; it’s a movement towards a more inclusive future. It challenges stereotypes and empowers individuals to dress authentically. For Gen Z, fashion is a form of identity, not a constraint.
9. “Cheugy” Is a Thing
Gen Z has coined “cheugy” to describe outdated or unfashionable trends, often targeting Millennial favorites. This playful term has sparked conversations across generations. It’s a way for young people to critique and examine cultural shifts. “Cheugy” embodies a lighthearted perspective on evolving tastes. It highlights the fluid nature of trends and the humor in clinging to past styles. For Gen Z, it’s about embracing what’s current and leaving behind what no longer resonates. This term adds a witty layer to the generational dialogue about style and relevance.
10. Irony-Driven Humor
Gen Z’s humor is characterized by chaotic, random, and ironic elements, such as memes about Shrek or “corecore.” This style reflects a unique ability to find comedy in absurdity. It’s a blend of satire and silliness, capturing the essence of contemporary culture. Often irreverent and spontaneous, irony-driven humor is a way to cope with the world’s complexities. For Gen Z, memes are more than jokes; they’re a language of their own. This trend showcases creativity and wit, providing both entertainment and insight into the generation’s worldview.
11. Tiny Sunglasses Over Oversized Frames
Preferring tiny, Matrix-style sunglasses, Gen Z moves away from the oversized frames popular in previous generations. These sunglasses make a bold fashion statement with their minimalist allure. They offer a futuristic vibe that resonates with those who want to stand out. This trend reflects an appreciation for subtlety and precision in fashion. It’s a departure from excess, embracing simplicity and elegance. Tiny sunglasses capture the essence of “less is more,” appealing to those who appreciate understated style. For Gen Z, it’s about redefining cool with a fresh perspective.
12. Cottagecore Everything
Gen Z’s “cottagecore” aesthetic romanticizes rural life, embracing vintage and pastoral themes. This trend is a nostalgic escape from modern chaos. It celebrates simplicity and nature, offering a sense of tranquility. Cottagecore is about crafting a world where slow living and beauty in the mundane reign supreme. It’s a reaction against the rapid pace of contemporary life, encouraging reflection and appreciation. For Gen Z, this aesthetic is a sanctuary, a way to find solace in a fast-changing world. Cottagecore invites a return to cherished, simpler times.
13. DIY Bangs and Haircuts
Embracing a do-it-yourself attitude, Gen Z is unafraid to cut their own bangs or experiment with hairstyles. This trend is about taking control and expressing individuality. DIY haircuts offer a canvas for creativity and self-discovery. It’s a bold move that reflects a fearless approach to personal style. For some, it’s an act of rebellion; for others, a form of self-care. This trend encourages experimentation without fear of judgment. By cutting their own hair, young people redefine beauty standards, celebrating imperfections and uniqueness.
14. Depop Over Thrift Stores
Gen Z prefers online thrifting through platforms like Depop, valuing convenience and unique finds. This trend reflects a shift towards sustainable fashion and individuality. Online thrifting provides access to a vast array of styles, catering to diverse tastes. For young people, it’s not just about shopping; it’s about discovering pieces with stories. Depop offers a platform for creative expression and eco-conscious choices. This trend highlights a preference for curated, personal style over mass-produced fashion. It’s a modern approach to discovering and sharing unique fashion finds.
Well, hello there!
My name is Jennifer. Besides being an orthodontist, I am a mother to 3 playful boys. In this motherhood journey, I can say I will never know everything. That’s why I always strive to read a lot, and that’s why I started writing about all the smithereens I came across so that you can have everything in one place! Enjoy and stay positive; you’ve got this!