Generation Z
Every generation has its own trends. Here are some of Gen Z's.
Oct. 2, 2025, 5:07 p.m. ET

From clean girl aesthetic to soft living, USA TODAY asked ChatGPT to compile a list of trends popular among Gen Z, which is made up of people born between 1997 and 2012. See how this generation is influencing culture through hyper-nostalgia and unapologetic authenticity.
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Digital nomadism including remote work and wanderlust has led to rising interest in minimalist travel and van life among Gen Z.
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Nostalgic tech: Flip phones, digital cameras, and MP3 players are trendy again for the aesthetic and dopamine detox.
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Y2K fashion is popular among Gen Z, consisting of bold colors, loose-fitting or low-rise pants, tinted glasses, and glossy lips.
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Gen Z is pursuing more non-traditional career paths, choosing freelance, creator, or gig economy work.
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Aesthetic trends like “Clean Girl Aesthetic,” which consists of barely-there, glossy skin, fluffy brows, tank tops, gold hoops and neutral tones for an effortless, minimalist look. This has evolved to “Clean Girl Aesthetic 2.0,” which is still natural, but with more defined features like sculpted blush, soft contour, glazed lips. The fashion involves elevated basics like designer accessories, statement tailoring, silk, cashmere and subtle luxury. It’s described by ChatGPT as refined and luxurious, yet still low effort.
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ChatGPT described Hailey Bieber and Sofia Richie Grainge as celebrity examples of “Clean Girl Aesthetic 2.0.”
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Soft living has taken priority over hustle culture among Gen Z. Soft living prioritizes peace, mental health, and “main character energy” over burnout.
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Gender neutral fashion: More androgynous or fluid clothing styles.
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Singer Billie Eilish has had a significant impact on gender-neutral fashion, pushing against traditional fashion expectations for women by sporting baggy, oversized clothes for comfort and body autonomy.
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Eco-consciousness including thrifted fashion, upcycling, digital decluttering, and anti-fast fashion movements.
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ChatGPT listed AI generated content as popular among Gen Z, this includes ChatGPT itself. A survey from Resume.org reported that one in five Gen Z workers use ChatGPT regularly to make tough decisions, get advice, and for mental support. The survey also found that half of Gen Z respondents would rather ask ChatGPT questions than their boss.
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Apps like TikTok, Lemon8 and Geneva are popular among Gen Z.
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