9 Gen-Z Fashion Trends That Most Millennials Cannot Understand
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Gen-Z is probably better known as the internet generation. Those belonging to this generation were born between the years of 1997 to 2012 and have been coming into their own in recent times. While older Gen-Zs who were born in the 90s probably share more in common with Millennials than they do with the younger generation, some things remain universal among their generation. As of today, every millennial has hit the dreaded late 20s and is over 25 years of age. So there are a few things about fashion that they definitely do not share with those who are younger than they are. So here is a list of 9 Gen-Z fashion trends that most Millenials absolutely do not want to participate in:
1. Bucket Hats
The culture of bringing back trends has become very common among Gen Z. From the 90s street bucket hats to butterfly clips of the 2000s, there is no end to it. However, bucket hats were not exactly a fashion statement back in the day and were mostly considered uncool by many. Bucket hats seem to be a prevalent trend among Gen-Z, and many celebrities and influencers have been spotted wearing them. But when we millennials were younger, bucket hats were only worn by grandparents or toddlers. While we don’t hate the look, we definitely would not want to sport them ourselves.
2. Crocs With Everything
We simply cannot comprehend how crocs went from being universally hated to becoming a trend? These days crocs seem to be a must-have for every Gen-Z, and so many of those who are under 25 seem to be wearing them. We’ve also seen these on those above 25 like Justin Bieber, Bad Bunny, and more. Over the past few years, crocs have been selling out pretty fast. People like Ariana Grande, Lebron James, Kendall Jenner, and more have all been seen wearing somewhat controversial shoes during recent times. This has provided Gen-Z folks with more fashion inspo and perhaps even inspired a few 30 years olds too.
3. Glorifying Cringey Y2K Fashion
Most millenials look back at their fashion sense in the early 2000s and cringe hard. The paper-thin eyebrows, colorful hair clips, layering jackets and shirts on tank tops, and more were a popular trend back in those days (Thanks Disney). These days, Gen Z folks open their older siblings’ closets and grab onto whatever they can. While we don’t hate that chunky platform boots are coming back, we definitely do hate the butterfly clips and mesh tees that are such an eyesore.
4. Clashing Patterns
Every generation subtly works to change fashion rules and improve on things that were set in place before they arrived. In some cases, they try to bring back certain forgotten fashion gems from the past. However, clashing prints is a trend that we wish would stay in the past. Why would you want to wear a leopard print skirt with a tiger print top in opposite colors? Like we don’t understand the purpose of it? Millennials love vibrant patterns too! We just don’t prefer wearing them all at once and would rather wear one or two pieces of patterned items and keep the other looks a bit more simple. Unless you are an edgy fashionista who can literally pull off anything they wear, this is definitely not a good idea if you are simply experimenting.
5. Resin Jewelry
Resin jewelry is the 70s throwback that is heavily trending with the Gen Z crowd, but the rest of us millennials have not been as quick to jump on board. Millennials would prefer wearing statement jewelry and leather (faux) jewelry. Gen Z, however, doesn’t have as much of a problem experimenting with its fashion choices. This accessory definitely takes us back to our childhood pleasures of collecting unique-looking things. But as a grown-up, it looks far from an exotic piece.
6. Super Short Cropped Cardigans
No hate to Gen Z folks, but most millennials would not feel comfortable enough to wear those midriff-baring cropped cardigans. Most millennials would rather wear the Rachel Green approved Cardigan that grazes one’s hips. Short Millenial girls especially preferred avoiding anything that drew attention to their lack of height. Gen Z, on the other hand, was more than happy to pair loose mom jeans or with a super short cropped cardigan.
7. Oversized Jackets
Maybe it’s due to the pandemic or the rise of comfortable sweats over any outfits, but we just cannot understand this oversized jacket trend. Sure, we all had a phase where we wore baggy t-shirts and loose pants, but that does not mean that we wore those clothes 24/7. All of those random vacation souvenir t-shirts and jackets we picked up as kids are now in trend? We just don’t get why. Who wants to look like they’re wearing their fathers’ old clothes?
8. Calf Socks
Ankle socks were a thing during the mid to late 2000s, and showing off chunky-looking socks was frowned upon! Soon, thigh-high socks and tights took over as a trend and, with the introduction of e-girls, gained more mainstream popularity. The only time calf socks were spotted on people, it was among those who played football. These days the calf socks have leaped from the sports field onto the feet of Gen Z folks.
9. Lace Jumpsuit
Of course, we cannot deny that Olivia Rodrigo is loved by Millennials and Gen Z alike, but this look definitely was not it. Probably a lacy jumpsuit like this would suit the extravagant red carpet moments of celebs, but in real life, this is quite a risky choice, even for edgy dressers. While Millennials love wearing lace outfits, we definitely don’t wear all lace outfits all the time. A nice lace top every now and then or a pretty lace skirt sounds lovely, but a lace jumpsuit? Nah. We’d rather skip. Lace linings are a vibe, but an all lace?! We respect the daring dresser but would hardly ever choose it for ourselves.
It’s easy to criticize the fashion choices of the previous generations when our generation itself was no less. We’ll never understand why velour tracksuits, tiny handbags, and gigantic butterfly clips were so popular, and we certainly hope that Gen-Z does not bring back these cringy fashion choices. Do let us know which Gen-Z fashion trend you think is terrible. Any Gen-Z readers should let us know which Millennial fashion trend is better left in the closet. Let us know all of your thoughts on this article in the comment section below.
