Instagram Presents Top Trends For 2024, Under The Lens Of Gen Z
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As the world spins into 2024, Instagram, in partnership with trend forecasting company WGSN, has taken a deep dive into the pulse of Generation Z’s culture, unveiling insights that are set to shape trends in the year ahead—from vibes to “icks.”
The survey, spanning continents from the US to South Korea, peeks into the minds of the most digitally savvy generation, offering a glimpse into future trends across fashion, social media, lifestyle, and more.
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Peek below to discover more.
Fashion
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Fashion-wise, 2024 heralds a fresh wave of sustainability and personal expression. Gen Z’s style outlook points to a preference for thrifted and vintage finds, a nod towards eco shopping habits, with about 65% of respondents showing a preference for acquiring second-hand over new clothing. Moreover, a significant 70% of Gen Zers are planning to embrace repeating outfits, breaking the stigma of wearing the same clothes more than once, and highlighting a sustainable fashion approach.
The DIY fashion trend is also gaining traction, with around 60% of young people keen on wearing clothes in unique and unexpected ways. Wardrobe choices are expected to reflect a mix of modest dressing and creative DIY fashion, blending environmental consciousness with a dash of personal flair.
Social media
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In the social media landscape, Gen Z appears to be steering away from self-promotion and the superficial, and towards a shift in creating genuine connections with friends and family on social media. It’s less about showcasing and more about engaging in meaningful ways, whether it’s through liking stories or sharing memes in DMs. Another finding is that nearly 50% of Gen Z users are planning to use social media to stay abreast of current trends in various domains like fashion and technology.
Lifestyle
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The year 2024 is set to be Gen Z’s chapter of self-growth, with priorities like staying healthy, exploring career paths, and embracing travel. Approximately 80% of respondents prioritize staying healthy through regular workouts and a balanced diet. 75% of Gen Zers express a desire to explore different career paths, and 70% planning to travel more.
Entrepreneurial by nature, a significant chunk of this generation sees self-employment as a viable route to success.
Dating
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In the dating arena, Gen Z’s approach is unique and digitally driven. According to Instagram, “Gen Z is as single as ever,” with 63% identifying as single. Nonetheless, strengthening current relationships is a key focus.
In a digital twist to traditional dating rituals, 28% of Gen Zers prefer exchanging Instagram handles over phone numbers as a first step in a new relationship, the platform proclaims. Interestingly, Instagram handles are becoming the new phone numbers in the dating game. Top “icks” or dating deal-breakers include bad meme taste and following an ex on Instagram.
Food and celebrities
As for food trends, there’s an appetite for sustainable food options. About 45% of respondents are keen on trying vegan products, and 42% are interested in experimenting with plant-based meat alternatives.
When it comes to their social universe, a significant majority (75%) are part of online fandoms, ranging from television shows to musicians and video games. Reaching out to celebrities via Instagram DMs has become a popular form of fan interaction too.
Activism
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Unsurprisingly, activism remains a cornerstone for Gen Z in 2024, with a strong emphasis on self-education, voting, and utilizing social media to spread awareness about critical issues. This proactive stance on social and environmental issues is a defining characteristic of this generation.
[via PetaPixel, CNBC, Social Media Today, Instagram, images via various sources]
