These Trends Are Cringe For Millennials But Oh-So-Cool To Gen Z

I was born in 1993, so I’m a quintessential Millennial. I host a show that covers entertainment news and pop-culture, and before that I worked in pop radio for about seven years. I would like to think I’m pretty open-minded when it comes to embracing different fashion and pop-culture trends in general considering it’s my whole career. So when Gen Z started to transition into baggier jeans I was right there with them. I packed all of my skinny jeans in a plastic container and set it in the top, back corner of my closet. I was already a crop-top fan, and I’ve been sporting a middle part for years.

There are a few other trends that Gen Z seemed to embrace though that definitely surprised me just because when I was in high school we wouldn’t have been caught DEAD wearing this stuff! Here are some of the fashion trends that have been shot back into the spotlight for the babes born anywhere from 1997–2012. The only thing I want to say before we start is — Gen Z didn’t invent these styles, they just stole them from Millennials and Gen X!

1. Baguette Bags

Everytime I see one of these I think of Carrie on Sex and the City struggling to whip a cigarette out before one of her dates with Big. These are DEFINITELY a ‘90s trend. The downside: all you can fit in it are your credit cards and a stick of gum.

2. Itty Bitty Sunglasses

It’s not that I hate them, it’s just that they are so impractical. Looks-wise, I’m definitely not opposed to teeny tiny ‘90s sunglasses, but let’s be real here: these do nothing to shield your eyes from the sun. Hopefully the next generation will bring back massive, early 2000s sunglasses because at least those fulfilled their purpose.

3. Square-Toed Heels

Probably one of my absolute fave accessory trends to see Gen Z dust off is the square-toed heels. Gosh, these are just so IT. Very much a fan. I’m especially a fan of wearing heels that are barely heels at all and more like an elevated sandal so that my feet don’t hurt. FTW.

4. High-Waisted Mom Jeans

Feeling a little bloated after Chipotle? Don’t worry. You don’t have to stuff yourself into skinny jeans any longer. Baggy, loose-fitting clothes à la ‘80s and ‘90s are on trend, and I hope they never go out of style. I will riot though if they try to bring low-rise jeans back.

5. Chunky Sneakers and Long Socks

It would have been social suicide to show up to school in 2010 with dad sneakers and thick tall socks. We used to wear the TINIEST, most uncomfortable no-show socks that constantly slinked off our feet inside our shoes just so you couldn’t see them. Comfort is key to Gen Z, which in my eyes is deserving of a Nobel Peace Prize.

Love Evie? Let us know what you love and what else you want to see from us in the official Evie reader survey.