Why does Gen Z relive the past?

Recently, fashion has been looking more and more to the past, with Gen Z leading the way. You've probably seen trends and styles from the '70s to the 2000s being revived, like Y2K style, yoga pants (now called flare pants), and more. But why are young people so interested in the past, even though they're such a modern and forward-thinking generation?

After some research, I have to say that bringing back trends, styles, and music from the past is a form of escapism from the present. This happens because the past doesn't offer space for the unpredictable, uncertainty, and fear. People who lived in those times tend to feel a bit "resentful" about this revival, as they often wore things they didn't even like just to fit in with the fashion of the time. Unlike today, where we have the freedom to choose and adapt these trends to our personal style.

Movies, music, and series as gateways to the past.

Disco Style 70s

Disco Style 70s

Disco Style 70s

We have so much access to information, and that's one of the reasons for this nostalgia. Movies, music, and shows from the past connect young people with an era they never lived through, and they begin to idealize it as if things were better than they are today. Some examples of shows and movies include: Gossip Girl, Sex and the City, Mean Girls, among others. Music is also quite influential, especially music from the '70s and '80s, like disco, all of which conveys the idea that life was better back then and people were happier. Well, this may be true, but have you ever thought that maybe it was a distraction, just like today?

How is the past reinterpreted in today's fashion?

We’re returning to the past, but with a modern twist. The new generation has reinterpreted past trends, mixing old pieces with current items to create looks that blend with contemporary style. Some examples of this reinterpretation include flare pants (formerly called yoga pants or bell bottoms), Y2K style (with early 2000s clothing), disco looks, and much more. Cinema also plays a part in this, as we see in the series Stranger Things, which strongly draws from '80s inspiration. Additionally, music from those eras has been reinterpreted and started influencing current artists, who use these sounds as a base for their productions.

Y2K Style

Y2K Style

80s Style

Why is the past so attractive?

The revival of past trends is so appealing to young people as a form of escapism from reality, as mentioned earlier. But it can also be explained by the emotional connection behind series, films, and music—allowing them to identify with the history, style, and even culture, which creates a sense of belonging to something bigger. Another factor is the search for exclusivity and authenticity that these revivals provide. By revisiting old clothes, music, and aesthetics, young people can differentiate themselves from the crowd and express themselves in a more unique way. Mixing the new with the old results in something original that can easily be adapted to their personal style.

Y2K Style

How far can this search for the past take us?

The search for the past can lead us in many directions, and it's interesting to think about it considering both the positive and negative sides. On one hand, what makes this revival interesting is that it can also serve as a foundation for innovation. Art, fashion, and culture will always draw inspiration from the past, but to create something truly new, we need to digest these influences and create from what the world needs now.

Taking into account the pessimism, the Gen Z nostalgia reflects the search for genuine connections, and that's not necessarily bad. It provides comfort and transports us to a different reality, giving us a break from the digital world. However, if we love the past so much, maybe it's time to focus on creating new memories. After all, one day, everything we experience now will also be nostalgia. Additionally, the idealization of the past can lead to disconnection from the current reality, making people forget the achievements and progress in areas like sustainability, social movements, and technology.