Gen Z Fashion Trends: Chunky Shoes, Statement Outerwear, and More

By: Elena Tralwyn  | 
Fashion.
Gen Z is all about self-expression. PeopleImages.com - Yuri A / Shutterstock

For Gen Z — those born between 1997 and 2012 — fashion is less about rules and more about self-expression. These Gen Z fashion trends blend nostalgia, rebellion, and an eye for the future.

Members of this generation have become the gatekeepers of what’s considered "cool" (and what’s not) in 21st-century fashion.

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1. Baggy Jeans

Forget skinny jeans; baggy jeans are back. This trend nods to Y2K style and hip-hop influence. They’re a favorite among the younger generation for both comfort and a laid-back aesthetic.

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2. Low-Rise Everything

Yes, low-rise jeans are making a comeback. While Millennials may still flinch at the thought, Gen Z’ers are embracing this bold cut in both jeans and skirts, often pairing them with crop tops for a true throwback vibe.

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3. Crop Tops and Baby Tees

The crop top isn’t going anywhere. Generation Z loves showing midriffs, especially when styled with oversized bottoms. It’s all about balance, and this combo makes sense for those chasing early-2000s style trends.

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4. Thrifted and Vintage Pieces

Young women thrift shopping
Thrifting is a popular Gen X move. antoniodiaz / Shutterstock

Fast fashion remains popular, but a significant share of Gen Z is embracing thrifted clothing for a more sustainable style. Think Urban Outfitters vibes with a dose of retro flair.

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5. Chunky Shoes and Socks

From platform boots to retro sneakers, Gen Z knows a good pair of shoes can define an outfit. Add high socks for extra edge. This trend works in different ways depending on your inspiration.

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6. Tie-Dye and DIY Looks

Thanks to a rise in self-expression, tie-dye exploded in popularity during the pandemic. Gen Z embraces fun clothes that look handmade, unique, and personal — even if they came from Old Navy.

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7. Gender-Neutral Fashion

Gen Z favors clothing that doesn’t stick to gender norms. Gender neutral styles — oversized button-downs, slouchy trousers, or unisex sets — have become mainstream, especially among young people questioning traditional categories.

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8. Bag Charms and Accessories

Backpacks and purses are getting playful thanks to bag charms. These little add-ons give off major Y2K energy and show how style today is just as much about the extras as the outfit itself.

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9. Statement Outerwear

Fur coat
This fit is simply fire. Kiselev Andrey Valerevich / Shutterstock

Whether it's a color-blocked puffer, faux fur coat, or oversized blazer, Gen Z embraces outerwear that makes a statement. This is the age group that dresses for the 'gram; the coat is often the outfit.

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10. Mixing High and Low Fashion

Gen Z'ers are all about style trends that mix thrifted or fast fashion pieces with designer finds. They’re not afraid to wear Old Navy with a luxury sneaker — and make it look cool.

We created this article in conjunction with AI technology, then made sure it was fact-checked and edited by a HowStuffWorks editor.

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