The GenZ era has been an iconic moment for fashion expression. Thanks to the Internet, people now go online to look up several fashion trends just to select the ones that conform with the current popular culture. This has made the GenZ fashion space a highly competitive platform for new trends to thrive.
GenZ Values: What GenZ Looks For?
For the GenZ, everyday is an opportunity to showcase exclusive fashion sense. This is why they are always on the lookout for the next GenZ fashion trend that will put them in the spotlight.
The GenZ fashion revolves around clothing that brings comfort and tick every aesthetic need the modern society requires. Some of the specific preferences that they value in fashion and jewelry include:
- Individuality
Standing out is the new fashion. The world has seen eras when fashion was all about uniformity. Where people go around wearing similar attires, matched in the same colour and style. That’s not how it is anymore. GenZ fashion gives room for everyone to express their individual fashion preference without being judged.
- Sustainability
How carbon emission has brought about severe global warming has influenced more awareness for sustainable products. Countless clothing is being produced today under the guise of fast fashion, posing more threat than good. This is why most GenZ now trace the carbon footprint of each product they purchase to help maintain a sustainable environment.
- Authenticity
Authenticity has always been a problem in the fashion space. GenZs are on the lookout for authentic products. Reliable products that can be traced to a source widely known for its craftsmanship and attention to detail.
Key Characteristics of GenZ Fashion Trends
GenZ fashion has witnessed countless trends, with inspirations drawn from past decades. These trends are mixed with recent styles to birth a new age for GenZ fashion.
They include:
Retro Styles and Nostalgia
Going retro is a way to bring the nostalgic effect back to life. A certain amount of GenZ style is characterised by trends picked from the 90’s and early 2000’s. Wearing these outfits will practically give you a feel of how things used to be in that era. Some of them are low raised pants, bold crop tops, chunky chains, platform shoes, etc.
Oversized and Gender-neutral Clothing
Oversized clothing is a vibrant aesthetic drawn from the mid 90’s. It disappeared for a while but recently gained momentum as an important part of GenZ fashion. Examples are baggy trousers, platform shoes, boxy tees, bold chins, etc.
Gender-neutral clothing on the other hand is a trend that represents a futuristic culture. Clothings under this class are fabrics and accessories that are not gender specific; they can be rocked by both genders.
Streetwear and Athleisure
Athleisure clothing is one prominent streetwear for the GenZs. They offer a sense of comfort and style. Adding some joggers, hoodies, tracksuits, and sneakers to your cart will get you hooked to this trend. Apart from athleisure, some other streetwears to look out for are graphic tees, authentic jerseys, vintage shirts, cargo pants, and statement chains.
Sustainable Fashion
In recent times, sustainability is a driving force behind many trends. Once a product is perceived to be unsustainable, there are chances it wouldn’t stay long on the trend table. This fashion movement is all about meeting our present needs without compromising the needs of generations yet to come.
Jewelry Trends Popular with GenZ
Ever wondered what jewelry is popular with GenZ? Or why does Gen Z wear so many rings? GenZs choice is often influenced by the jewelry in vogue.
Personalized Jewelry
Personalised jewelries are pieces that share a personal detail about the user. It could be a name, date, design, or anything that sparks a reaction at a glance. This GenZ jewelry trend is quite famous because it preserves memories and also gives room to express one’s individuality.
Minimalist Jewelry
If you’re the type that prefers simple and elegant jewelries, this is all you need. Minimalist jewelries are durable and long lasting pieces with little ornamentation. GenZs don’t take it for granted because it is one of the few jewelries that can be paired with both casual and formal outfits.
Nostalgic Jewelry
This type of jewelry trend will take you down memory lane. Its inspiration was drawn from the late 90’s. But it’s still a popular trend due to the detailed attention paid to each craft. Some notable examples are chunky chain or ring, colourful beaded necklace, bright amulet, etc.
Gender-Neutral Jewelry
This type of jewelry can be worn by any gender. That’s why it’s nicknamed “unisex”. Jewelries like this are mostly designed with neutral colours and materials to keep a balance between the male and female gender. Their designs are mostly minimalist with symbolic motifs that are not particular to anyone.
Tech-infused Jewelry
For GenZs whose daily activities revolve around tech, owning a tech-infused jewelry won’t be a bad idea. Jewelries like this come with features beyond aesthetics or beautification. They include smart bracelets or watches that can be used to track fitness level, record body temperature, or mirror phone notifications. There are also smart earrings that can work as wireless headphones.
Statement and Bold Jewelry
As opposed to the minimalist trend, this jewelry is big and bold. It’s most ideal for GenZs who want to make a statement with their jewelry. Its boldness wouldn’t make you go unnoticed as it sets you apart from everyone in the room.
Colorful and Quirky Jewelry
This particular trend belongs to the GenZ fashion nomads, especially people who want their jewelry to have several colours and designs. With this jewelry, you don’t have to worry about the colour of your outfit because it will blend in naturally. Typical example of a quirky accessory is the pearl jewelry and baroque jewelry.
Sustainable and Ethical Jewelry
Jewelers producing this type of jewelry pay more attention to sustainability and ethical standards. This way, they are sure their production activities are not disrupting the environment. The GenZ’s on the other hand have embraced this culture and incorporated it into their daily lives.
Why are Pearls Perfect for GenZ Style?
Jewelries made out of pearls are a core part of GenZ fashion. This is because they are distinct and universal, making them easy to blend into any GenZ style.
Form of Self-Expression
Pearls are unique gemstones that can be transformed to any shape, size, or colour that matches with your style. It is one of the few pieces of jewelry that can be used to symbolize the current mood or situation of its user. White pearls stand for new beginning and innocence, while black pearls represent resilience and strength.
Versatility
GenZs are on the lookout for versatile products. Jewelries made out of pearl can appear in either minimalist or maximalist form, depending on individual preference. It can be paired with casual wear but its beauty becomes evident when utilized with formal attire.
Ethical Sourcing
Unlike some other accessories, sourcing of pearls does not have a negative impact on the environment. It involves a farming process where little or no carbon is emitted into the atmosphere.
Budget-friendly
Creating different styles on a budget is possible with pearls. While there are expensive pearls, there are also budget-friendly pearls. The difference in price is often influenced by factors like source, brand, and amount of detail put into the jewelry.
Timeless Classic
Pearls are not just perfect for GenZs but for every single generation that existed before them, and those yet to come. Jewelries made out of pearls can be traced as far back as human civilization. It is not just a piece of jewelry but a timeless classic, impossible to fade with time.
How to Select Pearls to Match the GenZ Style?
Pearl jewelry will always remain an intigral part of the GenZ style; just like they have always been through all fashion era. Trying to select pearls the GenZ way? Follow this process:
Pearl Type
Pearl type is basically determined by the location where the pearls were harvested. This plays a significant role in determining what price a pearl will be sold to end users.
- Baroque Pearls: These are irregular pearls formed in different shapes or sizes. Its distinct shape formation makes it an important feature that propels individuality in the GenZ fashion style. However, it is a bit pricey compared to other pearl types.
- Freshwater Pearls: These are regular pearls that can be found in glaciers, lakes, and rivers. This makes them quite affordable and available to anyone willing to style on a budget.
Pearl Size
When it comes to making fashion statements, the size of your pearl really matters. For GenZs who want their outfit to speak louder than their voice: the bigger the pearl, the better.
- Smaller Pearls: This is otherwise known as minimalist pearls. Pearls like this are always giving a simple look because of the little detail crafted within. If you’re the introverted type who wants to step out unnoticed, this is for you.
- Larger Pearls: Jewelries like this are sometimes paired with gold or silver to meet luxury standards. They always turn out bold and capable of stealing the show.
Pearl Color
The primary colour of a pearl is determined by the colour on the lip of the mollusk (when sourcing). However, a lot of pearls still undergo colouring stages to form a perfect blend.
- White Pearl: These pearls are classics that can be paired with any shade of colour. It is a go-to jewelry for gender-neutral GenZs because it strikes a balance.
- Colored Pearl: These are the vibrant ones. They are either natural or painted during crafting. Colored pearls are extremely eye-appealing, making your presence to be noticed in any gathering.
How to Combine GenZ Fashion with Jewelry Styles Like a GenZ Pro?
Fashion without jewelry is incomplete. For GenZs, getting the perfect jewellery combo to compliment various outfits is key. Here is a few fashion and jewelry styles to consider:
Layering and Stacking
Stacking multiple jewelries around their neck is a lovely style for GenZs. The jewelries should be of different sizes, arranged to complement an outfit. For instance, pairing a minimalist pearl jewelry with double metal chains.
Playing with Colors
What is GenZ favorite color? GenZs prefers bright and bold colors paired appropriately. Nevertheless, it is advisable not to exceed three colour shades on an outfit for better intricacy. One way not to go wrong with this is to integrate bright colour outfits and mixed colour jewelry. This pattern will create a monochromatic statement that’s loud and clear.
DIY Jewelry
Unlike most jewelries that require a certain level of expertise, you can make some without professional knowledge and incorporate them in your outfit. They include: charm necklace, beaded bracelet, and choker made from beaded pearl.
Mixing Textures and Metals
Mixing texture with metal is popular culture amongst GenZs. This is done by rocking different types of metal jewelry and fabric at the same time. For example; instead of pairing denim on denim, a denim jacket can be paired with baggy pant, while two or three different metals are layered round the neck.
Balancing Maximalist and Minimalist Styles
As a GenZ, you don’t want to go full minimalist or maximalist with any of your styles. It’s best to keep it in-between by pairing both to create a balance. A minimalist shade and necklace will blend with whichever casual wear you desire.
Key Takeaway
The GenZ fashion space is full of constant, evolving trends, most of which were drawn from notable fashion eras in the past. The difference is that the previous eras’ styles have been merged with the current trends to birth a new era that embraces fashion values like; individuality, sustainability, and authenticity.
