by Samara Morris
The fashion landscape is ever-evolving, and with the emergence of Generation Z, trends are shifting once again. First, they took on skinny jeans, and now, it seems they're redefining the very essence of comfort wear.
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Leggings, once a staple in every Millennial woman's wardrobe, are now facing scrutiny from the style arbiters of Gen Z. In their place? The rebirth of an old favorite — enter flared yoga pants.
The Millennial Legging Era:
For years, leggings were the unofficial uniform for those born between 1981 and 1996. Found in almost every Millennial woman's dresser drawer, these soft, stretchy, all-purpose pants became synonymous with comfort and versatility. Whether paired with a going-out top for a night on the town or a hoodie for a quick run to the store, leggings were the epitome of casual chic. However, Gen Z has declared them "cheugy," or outdated, and has set its sights on a new comfort champion — flared leggings.
The Rise of Flared Leggings:
Gen Z's style revolutionaries, often found on TikTok, are advocating for the transition from leggings to what they fondly term "flared leggings" but what Millennials might know as yoga pants. Hannah Brown, a Millennial TikToker, has explored this shift in her viral videos, seeking style advice from the fashion-forward Gen Z community. According to Gen Z, leggings are out, and flared leggings are in.
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The Gen Z Aesthetic:
Flared leggings, the new go-to for Gen Z, are characterized by their tight yet comfortable fit. Typically styled with platform UGGs or Birkenstocks, a crewneck sweater, and delicate gold jewelry, flared leggings embody what Gen Z considers the "holy combo." The versatility of these bottoms allows for a seamless transition from casual outings to more elevated occasions, making them a wardrobe staple for the discerning Gen Z fashionista.
Yoga Pants Reinvented:
While yoga pants may be a familiar term for Millennials, Gen Z has put its own spin on this classic comfort wear. Flared leggings are distinguished by their solid colors and thin waistbands, a departure from the vibrant prints and thick waistbands favored by Millennials. This shift reflects Gen Z's preference for a more minimalist and refined aesthetic.
The Y2K Revival:
In addition to redefining leggings, Gen Z has embraced a range of Y2K trends, some of which resonate with Millennials, while others may stir mixed emotions. Slip dresses, popcorn shirts, and flip phones have made a comeback, signaling a nostalgic nod to the early 2000s. However, not all Y2K trends have been universally embraced, with micro miniskirts, over-plucked brows, and low-rise jeans causing a stir.
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Looking Ahead:
As Gen Z continues to reshape fashion trends, the influence of the oldest Gen Alphas is on the horizon, marking a potential shift in the taste making landscape. The evolution of comfort wear, from leggings to flared yoga pants, serves as a testament to the cyclical nature of fashion, where each generation puts its unique stamp on the trends of the past. As we bid farewell to leggings and embrace flared yoga pants, we eagerly anticipate the next sartorial journey that Generation Z will lead us on.