Skinny Jeans. Infinity Scarf. Knee-High Boots. Chevron. Louis Vuitton Neverfull. These phrases, icons of the early 2010s “cheugy” era, strike fear into the hearts of all Gen Z fashion lovers. While none of these things are in style today, it is key to remember that fashion trends travel in a repeating cycle, and that 2010s styles are sure to return. However, it seems that Gen Z has a greater animosity for these trends than any other demographic, with its burning hatred for skinny jeans transcending that of any other age group. Today, VALLEY is taking a deeper look into this occurrence in an effort to understand this generational distaste.
An Unpleasant Stroll Down Memory Lane
It’s very important to recognize that clothing is personal and that memories become attached to it. When skinny-jean wearing, Louis Vuitton-toting, younger millennials think of early 2010s styles and the memories and experiences associated with those times, they think of high school. This time of life is connecting with coming of age and increased freedom, not to mention learning to drive and likely discovering one’s style tribe. When Gen Z does the same, they think of … middle school.
No one enjoyed middle school. An awkward and embarrassing time, most people do not look back to ages 11 through 14 fondly. Many unsavory life experiences are related to this period.
By the time children make it to middle school, they are no longer young children, but they aren’t considered older children either, making it difficult to know what to be. Everyone is at a different place at this time when it comes to growing up, making it easy to compare yourself to others. Middle school is the time when many people begin to experiment with clothes for the first time, causing many to look back on their younger selves with embarrassment. Puberty makes the early teen years even more challenging and confusing. Mental health issues become more prominent at this age than they were before, causing many people to experience depression or anxiety for the first time in middle school.
The Proof is in The Jeans
VALLEY can’t help but wonder if there is a connection behind Gen Z’s distaste for 2010s life experiences and its animosity towards the fashion trends that reigned supreme during that time. Could it be possible that Gen Z is especially bitter towards early 2010s styles because it reminds them of unpleasant times? By extension, is it possible that Gen Z has clung to styles such as boyfriend jeans and platform shoes that rose to fame while they were in high school because it reminds them of a happier time?
We would love to hear your thoughts on our fashion theories. Please let us know your take by tweeting us @VALLEYmag.
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