Emily Flores
Trends rarely appear out of thin air—they usually have history stitched into them. Gen Z might feel like they’re reinventing the cultural wheel, but plenty of their favorites echo choices Boomers made decades ago. Curious to see how yesterday’s cool turned into today’s “new”? Let’s compare notes.
Embracing Retro Fashion
People say trends come back around, and wearing retro fashion stays evergreen. Boomers once wore bell-bottoms and tie-dye to protest conformity, turning clothing into a statement of rebellion. Now, a new group puts its own spin on those vintage looks by pairing them with modern items for a fresh look.
Vinyl Record Revival
Before digital streaming existed, that generation collected vinyl records by the millions. Listeners would even wait in long lines for a new album and make music a truly physical experience. Fast forward to today, and many young collectors feel that same excitement when they look for a limited-edition Taylor Swift record.
Thrifting For Unique Finds
Gen Z has embraced thrifting as part of the sustainable fashion movement, using apps like Depop to hunt for one-of-a-kind outfits. However, this trend carries forward the spirit of decades ago, when shoppers visited secondhand stores to find unique clothes and push back against mass consumerism.
Polaroid Photography
With just a press of one button, a single moment came to life for Boomers and made instant photography feel like pure magic. And their Polaroid SX-70 was an icon of its time. Years later, Genz wants to experience the charm again. In fact, they are drawn to analog photos for their physical presence and the nostalgic feel they bring.
Activism For Social Change
Youth activists of the present time rely on online organizing and viral hashtags to push for change, with Gen Z at the forefront. An approach reflecting the 1960s, when an entire generation championed causes through marches and public demonstrations and made voices heard nationwide.
Minimalist Living
Minimalist living has roots in the 1970s, when many embraced nature through small cabins and communal lifestyles. Today, the trend has shifted indoors: decluttering homes and simplifying possessions to improve mental well-being and foster a deeper appreciation for essentials.
Sneaker Obsession
Nowadays, people are paying top money for classic retro sneakers, with the new generation seeking the timeless vibe of Adidas Sambas and Nike high-tops for streetwear. Back then, footwear was also a huge style statement. That older generation made Converse and Adidas sneakers iconic by wearing them to rock concerts and protests.
Home Gardening Boom
During the ’70s, many chose to grow their own food. This was not a pastime, but a practical way to achieve self-sufficiency. Today, these same urges draw a new group to the soil. They love planting heirloom tomatoes, and a big part of the fun is sharing homegrown bounty on social media.
Board Game Nights
Gen Z has brought new life to game night and uses strategic games like “Catan” during social gatherings. Decades earlier, however, Monopoly and Scrabble served as essential family entertainment and kept people engaged around a table for hours at a time.
DIY Crafting Craze
In the 1970s, an interest in handmade artistry swept through the culture. Everyone was knotting macrame plant hangers and making beaded jewelry. That creative spark has certainly been rekindled. Nowaday, young adults are busy crocheting their own stylish hats or making handmade sweaters, keeping the need to create something by hand very much alive.