Generation Z: Fashion Over Functionz

Generation Zoomer. Idealistic, progressive, open-minded people who zoom around in boots, clogs and other funky pieces of footwear. Gen Z takes fashion inspiration from previous generations, but adds its own pizzazz, buying less from large corporations and instead focusing on unorthodox, quirky and accessible small-businesses to push social and stylistic boundaries. 

The first thing someone might notice about a young person is the shirt they’re wearing or the accessories elevating their outfit. Gen Z accessorizes like no other generation — the “ring guy” has become a recurring character in Gen Z men’s fashion, according to The Wall Street Journal. Gen Z is constantly finding bracelets, necklaces and rings to add flair to their outfit and transform their pre-existing style.

Yet the accessories members of Gen Z purchase don’t always have a function. Previous generations may admire their wedding ring or a promise necklace given to them, but Gen Z has thrown away the notion of sentimental fashion. Gen Z is instead sentimental about non-traditional pieces and uses unusual pieces of jewelry to celebrate it, according to The New York Post.  

This aversion to function is also true for the shoes Gen Z is interested in. Uggs, for example, are incredibly popular among members of the generation due to their cozy, simple style. Although the function of Uggs is to be worn for warmth, members of Gen Z often wear them in the summer months, using them to achieve a “high-love” style, which combines formal wear with casual accessories, according to Vogue. 

Look around any L car or sidewalk and there’s a possibility a Zoomer will be wearing Uggs, despite the company’s original intention. 

For some members of Gen Z, clothing styles are meant to be cute and comfortable, combining high fashion with the everyday. However, like any generation, Gen Z is multifaceted. 

The Zooomer style can be loud and strange, according to The Washington Post. Within Gen Z exists fashion archetypes — casual, emo, kawaii and many more. Gen Z may have predictable shopping patterns, but there’s no predicting what Gen Z is going to be wearing next. 

Despite the chaotic nature of Gen Z style and a fluctuating fashion market, Gen Z seems to be interested in nostalgic or vintage pieces, often sacrificing function by refusing to buy new. In 2022, the RealReal — an online resale store for luxury pieces — saw a 50% increase in sales of vintage archival pieces, finding Gen Z purchased and sold 52% more than in previous years, according to the Fashion Network. 

While some of these pieces may be outdated, Gen Z purchases make up half the consumer base for the RealReal. Members of Gen Z adorn themselves with retro pieces they have no reason to buy for non-aesthetic reasons, following the same trend presented through their jewelry and shoe purchases and usage. There seems to be a clear choice of fashion over function. 

While companies and big brands are doing studies looking for the next potential trend, not even members of Gen Z know what they’ll be wearing next. 

Whether it be online or in person, Gen Z’s style when shopping is framed by the generation’s chaotic nature. For Gen Z it doesn’t matter if the winter boots with fur are worn during summer or the purse someone is wearing is 30 seasons late.

 When clothing’s function is transcended only one thing remains — an admiration for style.