The Gen Z vs. Millennial Debate: Our Editors Go Head to Head on This Year's Biggest Trends
Our take
The cyclical nature of fashion is a constant source of conversation, and the current debate between Gen Z and Millennial perspectives on trends feels particularly charged. It’s more than just a disagreement about whether thongs are back or bloomers are replacing trousers; it represents a deeper shift in how generations consume, interpret, and ultimately, define style. The Who What Wear UK office’s playful banter highlights a larger phenomenon: a divergence in aesthetic values and a recalibration of what constitutes “trendy.” This isn’t simply about younger generations dismissing older ones’ tastes, but a genuine evolution driven by social media’s accelerated pace and a renewed emphasis on individual expression. We've observed this shift firsthand, noting how runway shows are now built around social media moments now [/post/why-fashion-weeks-are-built-around-social-media-moments-now-cms73uc57036twjtfjqovo7fg], reflecting a desire for immediacy and shareability that differs from the more considered, longer-term trends of the past. The conversation is also influenced by the rise of influential figures like Zendaya, who embodies modern sophistication and effortlessly embodies the spirit of luxury as she shines as Prada Beauty ambassador [/post/zendaya-shines-as-prada-beauty-ambassador-cms73u4vy0369wjtf3lbntq8s].
Millennials, having lived through the rapid rise of fast fashion and the early days of social media’s influence on style, often approach trends with a degree of skepticism and a desire for longevity. They value quality, sustainability, and a curated personal aesthetic – a sensibility reflected in the enduring appeal of classic pieces and brands. Gen Z, on the other hand, grew up immersed in a hyper-visual, constantly evolving digital landscape. They’re more likely to embrace micro-trends, experiment with eclectic combinations, and prioritize self-expression over adherence to established norms. Their fashion choices are often driven by platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where trends emerge and disappear with lightning speed. This isn't to say that Millennials are averse to experimentation; rather, their approach is often more intentional and rooted in a desire for timelessness, a concept we've seen mirrored in the aspirational, considered styling of brands like Jimmy Choo’s fall 2026 campaign [/post/jimmy-choo-s-fall-2026-campaign-is-pure-shoe-temptation-cms6r1csz02p3wjtft55sp3g4]. It’s a difference in pace and purpose—a desire for enduring style versus a celebration of fleeting moments.
The significance of this generational divide extends beyond mere fashion preferences. It speaks to broader cultural shifts in how we define identity, consume media, and engage with the world. The Millennial generation came of age during a period of relative economic stability, fostering a desire for established brands and classic styles. Gen Z, however, has grown up amidst economic uncertainty and social upheaval, leading to a greater embrace of individuality and a willingness to challenge traditional norms. Fashion, as a form of self-expression, reflects these anxieties and aspirations. The rise of vintage and secondhand clothing, for example, is a direct response to the environmental and economic concerns of younger generations, while the embrace of maximalism and playful experimentation signals a rejection of the minimalist aesthetic that dominated the previous decade. This dynamic creates a fascinating tension, as both generations influence and inform each other, leading to a constantly evolving and increasingly diverse fashion landscape.
Ultimately, the Gen Z vs. Millennial debate isn’t about declaring one generation’s style superior to the other. It's about recognizing the distinct cultural contexts that shape their perspectives and appreciating the richness that arises from their differing approaches. The future of fashion likely lies in a synthesis of these viewpoints – a blend of enduring quality, sustainable practices, and a willingness to embrace experimentation and individual expression. The question remains: how will these generational influences continue to shape the industry, and will we see a blurring of the lines between what constitutes “trendy” and “timeless” in the years to come?
Of all of the things you're likely to overhear in the Who What Wear UK office, a good divisive trend is where things get juicy. "Are thongs back in?" "Are bloomers really going to replace wide-leg trousers?" "Wait, when did everyone start wearing backwards caps again?" If you've thought it, we've likely discussed it, but whether a trend has legs or not often comes down to the editors in question.
Don't get us wrong: we would never argue, but a healthy debate can ignite across the boardroom table when it comes to controversial trends. As a team that spans two generations, some of us did things the first time around (team millennial), whilst others are reinventing things for a new decade (team Gen Z), and far from sparring over the wearability of a pedal pusher, we're more likely to learn from each other when it comes to what makes for standout styling.
Keen to hear their thoughts on some of this season's most-discussed trends, I asked editors both Gen Z and millennial for their takes on the latest styles to go viral on socials. From Harry Styles' penchant for short-shorts to the much-discussed runway shoe that no one saw coming, these are the watercooler moments (read: Diet-Coke-vending-machine topics) that we like, loathe or fall somewhere in between. And, if you happen to agree, you can shop our looks.
See-Through Shoes
The Millennial Editor: Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor
"My first thought when it comes to transparent shoes? One word: condensation. I've sat patiently through "barefoot" toe shoes, toe rings, toe posts and floating heels, but any closed shoe that asks the wearer to be pedicure-prepped and sweaty-footed is a bridge too far for me. I will, however, advocate for a jelly, which is as close as I will come to flashing my feet.
See-through enough without being totally transparent. At least a well-ventilated jelly allows feet to breathe, and it may be the millennial in me that gets so excited about Chloé's rubbery take on princess shoes, but 6-year-old me is screaming at just how good jellies look with a demi heel. Having owned a pair of jelly shoes as a child, a teen (the OG Melissa style), in my twenties (courtesy of Alexa Chung X JuJu Jelly) and now pining after Jimmy Choos in my thirties, I'm convinced that they may be around for a lot longer than you might think. Not sold on the texture full stop? I'd urge you to take a look at Dear Frances' Balla boots. With a mesh body that shows the mere suggestion of a foot, it's the grown-up way to wear the trend throughout autumn too."
Shop Remy's Look:
The Gen Z Editor: Imani Francis-Tsolaki, Junior Fashion Editor
"The one trend I thought I’d never be on board with was that of the see-through shoe. When I say that, I’m not referencing the princess jellies that have Remy's heart, but rather the completely transparent, plastic shoe. However, the high fashion runways have recently made a case for clear shoes that has helped edge this "no" into a solid "maybe".
During spring/summer 2026, Simone Rocha and Louise Trotter showed hyper-ladylike see-through styles, which, although they still don't work for me, did remind me of their styling potential. At Loewe, kitten-heel booties were all over the runway, featuring a myriad of interchangeable, coloured socks. The cooler-toned PVC felt far less offensive, whilst the looser fit keeps the style (and your feet) feeling fresh. Just change your socks with each wear. Similarly at Maison Margiela, Glen Martens refreshed the Tabi with a clear, knee-high boot. Whilst the sculptural heel gave the silhouette a cooler, grittier appeal, it was the styling of a nearly-sheer-but-not pair of white tights that really tickled my fancy. Just think how festive they could look with a vivid red stocking? Now this is something that I can get on board with."
Shop Imani's Look:
P.E Sportscore
The Gen Z Editor: Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer
"The most stylish thing that a person can do is seeing a trend that’s going viral and not having to buy into it, knowing it’s not quite for them. This is exactly how I feel about the rise of retro sportswear trends or the "Pilates princess aesthetic"—lovely on someone else, but not quite right for me. I’m someone who will only really wear activewear to exercise and immediately change out of it the moment it’s done. I have never really gotten around to investing in three-stripe tracksuits, should I run the risk of cosplaying Liam Gallagher or Mel C.
There is only one exception to this rule for me—track shorts. I would happily wear them in a Zoë Kravitz or Carrie Bradshaw way, which is to say I’d pair them with a graphic T-shirt or peasant blouse, which provides an element of contrast against the sportif staple. I currently own a few pairs from the likes of With Jean and Mode Mischief, but these are simply intended to be worn with kitten-heel flip-flops or a chic top. If you want to look like you’ve just gotten home from physical exertion in baggy capris and a tank top à la Keira Knightley in Bend It Like Beckham, do it by all means. But I’d much prefer to keep my athleisure usage secretive and inconspicuous."
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The Millennial Editor: Jane McFarland, Editor-in-Chief
"Honestly? For me, most sportswear is best left to athletes, but recently, celebs have shown just how elevated their off-duty looks can be when athleisure is styled up. Whilst I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all of Charlize Theron’s recent 'fits, it was a Tom Ford look combining a silk shirt and co-ordinating shorts, topped with a black blazer that really nailed this season’s sportscore brief, albeit with plenty of grown-up energy.
For something more weekend-coded, I’m all about Ralph Lauren’s classic windbreaker with a pair of statement sunnies, but it's highly unlikely you're going to catch me participating in any actual sports whilst doing so."
Shop Jane's Look:
Prints Galore
The Gen Z Editor: Imani Francis-Tsolaki, Junior Fashion Editor
"As a Gen Z fashion editor, getting experimental and playing with prints and patterns comes with the territory. This season, however, I’m less interested in the “grandma's carpet florals” that seem to come back around every spring and summer. I’m after a print that packs a punch—Zebra.
Bold, dynamic and a little bit unexpected, it's all about the tone and texture with this eye-catching motif. From the sculptural berets in Yves Saint Laurent's A/W '93 collection to the eye-catching, textured Mombasa showcased during Tom Ford’s tenure at Gucci in 2002, the graphic stripe casts a striking finish that makes a moment out of simple denim and fitted skirts. While Chanel showed a wild, fringe maxi dress for A/W '26, Haute Couture signalling the return of Zebra, this year, I’m all about printed accents. Think a pair of contrasting court shoes or Fendi’s red, white, and black beaded re-edition Baguette styled with a denim midi skirt and fitted white tee. Perfection."
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The Millennial Editor: Remy Farrell, Fashion Editor
"I wouldn't describe myself as much of a minimalist dresser, but this mostly comes down to my love of colour. Unable to stick to capsule wardrobes and restrained colour palettes, my "aesthetic" tends to vary from day to day, but one thing you won't find featuring in my wardrobe is print-heavy pieces.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not entirely print averse, but I am very particular about what I like, and this season, amongst the stripes, florals, animals and abstract art, the only style to get me thinking has been polka dots. Before you write me off as a pearl-clutching millennial, I'm not suggesting twee, old-fashioned spots, but instead campy, Euro-summer dots. Jacquemus! Jean Paul Gaultier! Nina Ricci! Vetements! Fashion is riding the wave of nostalgia-obsessed maximalism, and if this season is my opportunity to dress like the cast of Rivals in the French Riviera, more power (dressing) to it."
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The New '90s
The Gen Z Editor: Ava Gilchrist, SEO Writer
"As someone who likes to call themselves a child of the ‘90s despite being born only six months before the turn of the millennium, I find a kindred spirit in this decade’s sartorial redux. Historically, the trend emerged as a response to the lurid glamour and over-excess of the 1980s, so after a period of logomania and hyped streetwear in the 2010s, it's obvious why people are interested in this vein of divisive minimalism again. With everyone fawning over Carolyn Bessette Kennedy’s wardrobe, as seen on Sarah Pidgeon in Love Story—there’s no denying that the cardinal silhouettes are chic, effortless and approachable, and whilst contemporary labels like Toteme, St. Agni, The Row and Colleen Allen emulate this energy the best, for me, there’s no overlooking the masters.
The technicality of Miu Miu’s SS'99 collection, the sensuality of Tom Ford’s SS'96 Gucci show, Jil Sander’s SS'94 show—this is also the decade that gave us Martin Margiela for Hermés, Helmut Lang after all. And the best thing about this trend’s reincarnation is proof of its timelessness, so there’s no need to add frills and repackage it under niche aesthetics like “office siren” or “quiet luxury”. Because as a real ‘90s baby would tell you, it really was better back then."
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The Millennial Editor: Jane McFarland, Editor-in-Chief
"As my favourite decade, there's something about '90s style that has always had me in a chokehold; that is, the minimalist era as opposed to Y2K. Tailoring never goes out of style, and I love this season’s sharp updates like a contrast lapel or Givenchy's oversized shoulder. I've never quite nailed a skirt length that suits me, but I do find myself increasingly intrigued by '90s-eqsue knee-length skirts with a twist—see Bottega Veneta’s fringed wool iteration for insight into my current mood board."
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