In a world where trends come and go at lightning speed, it’s easy to assume that everything popular today is a novel concept. However, many trends that Gen Z considers new were actually pioneered by the older generation.
From fashion statements to lifestyle habits, these cross-generational phenomena have deep roots. Here are 16 things that Gen Z thinks are new but Boomers did first.
1. Thrift Shopping as a Fashion Statement
Thrift shopping is now a trendy way to curate a unique wardrobe, yet it’s far from a new idea. Boomers started this movement, embracing thrift stores as a means to find affordable, unique clothing. This practice gained momentum during times of economic hardship, where making do with less was a necessity.
A visit to a thrift store was not just about shopping; it was an adventure, a treasure hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces that told a story. Today, the sustainable aspect of thrifting resonates with environmentally conscious Gen Z.
The excitement of finding a hidden gem remains unchanged, bridging the gap between generations through shared values and an appreciation for individuality.
2. Taking Polaroids for Aesthetic Appeal
The charm of Polaroid photos lies in their instant gratification and nostalgic kick. Boomers were the original fans of Polaroid cameras, capturing memories in an instant without the need for digital screens. It was a revolution in personal photography, as every snap provided a tangible memento.
Today, Gen Z embraces Polaroids for their retro appeal and the warm, imperfect quality that digital photos often lack. It’s not just about capturing an image but creating an aesthetic that feels authentic and timeless.
Whether decorating a dorm room or building a scrapbook, Polaroid photos continue to weave connections across generations, celebrating moments both ordinary and extraordinary.
3. Protesting for Social Causes
Social activism is not a new phenomenon, and Boomers were at the forefront of protests during the 1960s and 70s. From civil rights to anti-war demonstrations, they marched passionately for justice and change.
Today, Gen Z carries this torch with digital-savvy campaigns and viral movements. The platforms may have evolved, but the spirit of standing up for what’s right remains strong.
Boomers paved the way, showing that collective voices can indeed drive social change. The link between the past and present activism is undeniable, with each generation learning from the successes and failures of the other, fostering a continual fight for a better world.
4. Wearing Bell-Bottoms and Flares
Bell-bottoms are a quintessential symbol of 1970s fashion, embraced by Boomers who wore them as a statement of rebellion and individuality. These wide-legged pants were synonymous with the free-spirited ethos of the era.
Now making a comeback, Gen Z has revived bell-bottoms as a stylish nod to retro aesthetics. The flared design, paired with modern twists, offers a fresh take on a nostalgic trend.
Fashion may be cyclical, but the comfort and flair of bell-bottoms have proven timeless. Their enduring appeal lies in their ability to adapt to new generations while retaining their vintage charm.
5. Listening to Vinyl Records
The rich, analog sound of vinyl records is something that Boomers cherished long before the digital age. Records were not just about music; they were an experience. The large album covers, the ritual of placing the needle—each step was savored.
Gen Z has rediscovered this joy, finding an escape from the digital with vinyl’s tactile and auditory appeal. Collecting records has become a hobby, a way to connect with music on a deeper level.
Much like their predecessors, today’s youth find solace in the warm tones and nostalgic crackles that only vinyl can provide, bridging a gap between the eras.
6. Decorating with Houseplants Everywhere
Houseplants have been a staple of home décor for decades, with Boomers particularly fond of filling their homes with greenery during the 1970s. Plants like ferns and spider plants were popular choices.
Today, Gen Z has embraced houseplants as a means to create tranquil, natural spaces amid urban living. The lush, green aesthetic provides a soothing contrast to hectic digital lives.
This love for houseplants is more than visual; it’s a lifestyle choice that promotes well-being and sustainability, echoing the values shared by Boomers and today’s generation.
7. Riding Bikes as Eco-Friendly Transport
Long before the modern focus on sustainability, Boomers used bicycles as a practical and environmentally friendly mode of transport. Riding bikes was not only a means to get around, but also a form of recreation and exercise.
With growing concerns over climate change, Gen Z has embraced biking as an eco-conscious alternative to driving. The benefits are clear: reduced carbon footprints and improved physical health.
The spirit of freedom and exploration that comes with cycling transcends generations, as both Boomers and Gen Z pedal towards a cleaner, greener future.
8. Making Homemade Bread and Kombucha
Homemade bread has always been a comfort staple, and Boomers were no strangers to the art of bread-making. In times where convenience foods were not as prevalent, making bread at home was a common practice.
The recent resurgence in baking, coupled with the popularity of kombucha, has seen Gen Z embracing these traditional skills. The process of baking bread and fermenting kombucha offers a satisfying escape from screen time.
It’s a tactile, rewarding experience that connects the maker to food in a meaningful way, continuing traditions that have nourished generations.
9. Talking Openly About Mental Health
While the conversation around mental health has gained significant traction in recent years, it was not entirely absent among Boomers. Some forward-thinking individuals in the past began challenging the stigma surrounding mental health issues.
Today, Gen Z is leading the charge with open and honest discussions, breaking down barriers and fostering understanding. The dialogue is more inclusive, encouraging individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.
This ongoing conversation is crucial for breaking the chains of silence, building a supportive community that spans across generations.
10. Side Hustles Before They Were Called That
The concept of a side hustle is not new. Boomers often took on additional work to supplement their income or explore passions outside their primary careers. Whether it was crafting, freelancing, or investing, these endeavors were integral to financial security and personal fulfillment.
Today, Gen Z hustles with digital gigs and entrepreneurial ventures. The term might be new, but the hustle mentality is deeply rooted in past generations.
These side hustles are a testament to creativity and resilience, bridging the generational gap with the shared goal of achieving more than what a single job can offer.
11. Growing Their Own Food in Small Gardens
Victory gardens were a necessity during wartime, and Boomers learned early on the value of growing their own food. The satisfaction of harvesting home-grown produce was unmatched.
Now, with urban gardening on the rise, Gen Z has taken to cultivating small gardens in limited spaces. It’s a sustainable practice that promotes self-sufficiency and a connection to nature.
Through gardening, both Boomers and Gen Z find joy in nurturing life and reaping the fruits of their labor, fostering a sense of accomplishment and well-being.
12. Prioritizing Work-Life Balance
The quest for work-life balance has long been a priority, even among Boomers who sought to carve out time for family and leisure alongside their careers. This pursuit often involved setting clear boundaries and making deliberate lifestyle choices.
Gen Z continues this pursuit, with a heightened focus on mental health and well-being. Flexible work arrangements and remote opportunities have enabled greater balance.
The ongoing struggle for equilibrium is a universal challenge, with each generation learning from the other, striving for a harmonious life.
13. Buying Secondhand Furniture for Style
Boomers were among the first to appreciate the charm of secondhand furniture, often out of necessity or a love for unique designs. Vintage pieces added character to homes, each with its own story to tell.
Today, Gen Z embraces this approach, finding joy in the hunt for preloved items that express individuality. It’s a sustainable way to furnish living spaces without compromising on style.
The allure of secondhand furniture transcends time, offering a blend of practicality and nostalgia that resonates across generations.
14. Turning Hobbies into Businesses
For Boomers, turning hobbies into viable businesses was a way to explore passions and diversify income streams. Whether it was crafting, baking, or photography, these ventures provided a sense of purpose and creativity.
Gen Z is no different, leveraging digital platforms to transform hobbies into thriving enterprises. From crafting to content creation, the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well.
This shared journey highlights the timeless nature of innovation, with each generation building upon the successes of the past.
15. Wearing “Retro” Glasses That Aren’t Actually New
Those ‘retro’ glasses that are all the rage today? Boomers wore them first. The oversized, round frames were a staple of past fashion, seen on celebrities and everyday individuals alike.
Gen Z has revived these vintage frames, appreciating their quirky charm and bold statement. It’s a testament to the cyclical nature of fashion trends.
The enduring popularity of these glasses illustrates the blend of nostalgia and modernity, as each new wave of trendsetters makes them their own.
16. Making Friendship Bracelets and Handmade Gifts
Friendship bracelets were, and still are, a timeless symbol of connection. Boomers crafted them during summer camps and school breaks, weaving colors that represented bonds and memories.
Today, Gen Z continues the tradition, creating handmade gifts that carry personal significance. The act of making something by hand fosters creativity and mindfulness.
These tokens of friendship highlight the universal nature of human connection, a simple craft that spans generations and remains imbued with meaning.