Cora We need to forget about those fashion rules that are outdated like the “one size fits all” approach or the one that says that fashion must trickle down from the runway. Gen Z is now rewriting the fashion script entirely and it’s honestly very refreshing.
This generation is the one that was born between the mid-90s and early 2010s. They have come of age in a world where the information is instant, identities are now fluid and self-expression is considered a superpower. When it comes to fashion, they are leading a style revolution that’s not about following trends. It’s about inclusivity, authenticity and creativity in their own terms.
This is how Gen Z is changing fashion and we can learn from it.
Personal style is in
In the past, fashion used to follow a linear path. Designers would present their collections. Magazines would cover them and then consumers would follow suit months later. Gen Z on the other hand is not waiting around.
Gen Z leans hard into personal aesthetics instead of chasing trends. Now we get to see people online repping different styles. Like “cottagecore”, or “cyber grunge” to clean girl vibes. And all of these can exist simultaneously. There’s no longer one dominant look per season, and that’s the point.
For this generation, fashion is a form of storytelling. It’s not about fitting in, it’s about standing out and showing who you are right now. This means that your look today doesn’t have to match your vibe tomorrow.
Image from: https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/2022/12/27/gen-z-fashion/
There are no gender norms
Gen Z is over the rule that fashion should be divided by gender. This generation is breaking down the binary one outfit at a time and they’re embracing genderless collections and fluid silhouettes.
You can think about oversized button-ups and wear them as dresses. Or skirts styled with sportswear and sneakers. Also, boys in pearls and nail polish without anyone batting an eye. Gen Z won’t ask if a specific piece is for men or women, but instead if that piece feels like them.
They’re also embracing clothing as a form of expression, and not as a category. Major designers are listening and more brands are creating unisex lines or even marketing pieces without assigning a gender at all.
Image from: https://www.businessinsider.com/gen-z-fall-fashion-trends-2023-9
Sustainability is a must
Fast fashion is still dominating some corners of the internet, but Gen Z is the most eco-conscious of the generations so far. They question everything, like where are their clothes made, and how they are sourced, produced and discarded.
They will be proud thrifters. They’ll swap, upcycle and support slow fashion brands that prioritize ethical practices. Their message is quite clear: style shouldn’t come at the cost of the planet.
Even on social media, there’s a big change. Hauls are now being replaced with closet re-wear challenges or even thrift flips. Outfit repeating is celebrated and no longer a taboo.
Image from: https://fashionista.com/2017/01/generation-z-shopping-habits
Digital Fashion
Now, fashion that doesn’t exist in real life is making waves, thanks to this generation. From digital fashion skins in the metaverse to AR filters, you’ll be able to wear virtual outfits. Gen Z is leading the charge in blending tech and style. While the millennials had the Sims, Gen Z is styling entirely digital closets on apps or designing clothes that live only on their avatars.
To them, self-expression doesn’t end with the physical world. It can be an Instagram fit pic or even a virtual runway walk. Fashion will live as vibrantly online as it does offline.
Image from: https://www.forbes.com/sites/oliviaobryon/2021/07/19/gen-z-fashion-trends-to-try-that-arent-mom-jeans/
Fashion is for everyone
They are done with outdated beauty standards. They are embracing body diversity, size inclusivity and real representation, especially in fashion campaigns, influencer spaces and runway shows.
They push back against Photoshop, filters and the idea that only certain body types should wear certain pieces. Nothing is off-limits based on shape or size, like crop tops, bold patterns and miniskirts.
The shift is so powerful. Now, social media is flooded with creators of all sizes, identities and backgrounds. And they’re all showing off their styles with confidence. You don’t have to change your body to be fashionable, instead, fashion should change to fit you.
Fashion is political
Gen Z is using fashion to speak out more than any other generation. They can use protest gear or message tees. Fashion is activism for them. Gen Z isn’t afraid to make their values visible on their bodies. They’re not interested in being apolitical or even passive consumers. For them getting dressed is part of participating in the conversation.
