As time goes on, it becomes more and more apparent than Gen Z seemingly controls the trend cycle. Where we go, others (and TikTok!) will follow, complete with of-the-moment accessories and micro-trends that come and go faster than your brain can comprehend them.
As an editor whose job it is to be on the lookout for the next, biggest It item or movement, I have to admit at times, it feels like Gen Z is not taken seriously in the fashion conversation. Sure, our love for -core-ified aesthetics and "ugly" styles may raise a few eyebrows here and there, but the fact remains that Gen Z is growing up to be one of the largest demographics as it pertains to purchasing power and style decisions. So sit down and buckle up.
I asked six Gen Z tastemakers and editors what trends they're most excited about in the upcoming year. Whether it's the comeback of Tumblr-esque dressing or subtle runway-inspired details that have been on the rise for a minute now, read below to discover the Gen Z approved 2024 trends you should hop on before everyone else.
Eclectic Grandpa
"I'm excited for the eclectic grandpa look to have its moment! All of my favorite outerwear was sourced directly from my grandpa's closet, so my take on the trend is quite literal, but I think there are so many fun ways to interpret it." — Kayla Allen, Associate Social Media Editor atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing
Hero items: sweater-vests, librarian glasses, and vintage-looking jackets
Major Maximalism
"I feel like maximalism is back! Quiet luxury had its reign, but the girlies are accessorizing again and wearing color and bold silhouettes." — Aniyah Morinia, Fashion and Beauty Editor, Branded Content atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing
Hero items: interesting layers and colorful accessories
Flashy Reds
"I would say the color red is majorly in. It's always been a staple in my wardrobe. (I also have red-ink tattoos.) Growing up, my Mexican mom told me red was 'too much' or 'too scandalous,' so I used to never wear it. I'm excited to incorporate it even more in my wardrobe (like through red tights or pieces I wouldn't normally wear). Who cares if it's flashy!" — Maya Ernest, Branded Fashion Editor at Bustle Digital Group
Hero items: red tights, shoes, hobo bags, and knits
The Return of Indie Sleaze
"I've been stuck in my indie sleaze phase for about half my life, so I'm thrilled to see everyone else catching up to its grungy glory. Largely thanks to Saltburn, we're seeing remnants of some late 2000s/early 2010s trends creeping back into fashion and pop culture—which means it's time for everyone to put Alexa Chung back on their mood boards and rightfully place Peaches back on their pregame playlists. So if there are remnants of glitter, smudged eyeliner, torn tights, and leather, we're all in." — Samantha Olson, Assistant News Editor at Cosmopolitan
Hero items: lived-in garments, leather, miniskirts, and chunky boots
Not-So-Basic Basics
"Last November, I stole my dad's tuxedo shirt from my parents' wedding, and it's been my all-time favorite. I praise basics and have lately been on a quest for finding not only the best quality but something that I like to call 'not-so-basic basics.' You know, jeans in a particular silhouette and huge pockets, white shirts with small cuts or alterations, and now I feel like the not-so-basic basic white shirt is having a big moment. Dolce Gabbana brought back the tuxedo, Ariana Greenblatt wore it at the Golden Globes, and Uma Thurman at the Oscars 2022, and now I've seen different white shirt alterations and representations in brands like Harunobumurata." — María Fernanda Lara, Fashion Coordinator at Instyle México
Hero items: barrel jeans, imaginative everyday bags, alternative tops
Drop-Waist Silhouettes
"I'm really excited about drop-waist skirts and dresses for 2024 because they feel like the mature older sister to the miniskirt. I think 2023 was the year of mini EVERYTHING, so it's refreshing to see elegant drop waistlines working their way into the mainstream. Award show season and red carpets have shown a lot of drop-waist styles so far, so I think the trend will only grow as the year progresses." — Kayla Curtis-Evans, Associate Creative Editor, Branded Content at Hypebeast
Hero items: full-length, hip-grazing dresses and skirts
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