Nearly a third of Gen Z-ers want to dress more creatively, says Instagram report

Fashion trends for 2024 include modest dressing, an interest in vintage items, and the adoption of a more "unexpected" and personal style of dressing. Photo: AFP

Instagram is anticipating that the importance of authenticity will continue to grow in 2024.

The social network has revealed its major trends for the year, highlighting the habits and interests of the Gen Z.

In the spotlight is a focus on more sustainable fashion, meaningful connections on social networks, and a willingness to take responsibility for themselves and to educate others on important issues.

In collaboration with WGSN, the 2024 Instagram Trend Talk survey gathered data from members of the Gen Z in various countries, including the US, the UK, Brazil, India and South Korea, to explore their interests and preferences in a variety of areas.

Beauty gets more sustainable, individualised

When it comes to fashion and beauty, the Gen Z is moving towards more sustainable choices, with a tendency to buy fewer new clothes, reuse existing outfits and favor local shopping.

Fashion trends for 2024 include modest dressing, an interest in vintage items, and the adoption of a more "unexpected" and personal style of dressing.

A third of the Gen Z participants surveyed said they wanted to be more creative in the way they dressed.

In the realm of beauty the focus is on individual expression, with particular attention paid to new hairstyles and the discovery of signature fragrances.

A quarter of the Gen Z respondents surveyed plan to "express themselves by discovering a signature" fragrance in 2024.

More meaningful connections

When it comes to social networks, young people intend to prioritise meaningful connections, using social media to maintain contact with those around them and keep up to date with the latest trends.

Interactions on Instagram, such as sharing stories, sending reels or memes in DMs, play a key role in connecting with others.

When it comes to love, members of the Gen Z will focus more on personal development and deepening their current relationships.

Sixty-three percent of the respondents said they were single.

Swapping Instagram handles instead of phone numbers is becoming a common practice in social interactions, with 28% of participants having already taken the first step in this way.

Among the techniques used to flirt on Instagram, young people prefer to like their crush's story, add them to their list of Close Friends to share more personal stories, or put them in a photo in a story or photo dump.

A better version of one's self

In terms of lifestyle, Generation Z plans to focus on self-improvement and personal development, envisioning 2024 as a year of personal growth. Their priorities include staying healthy, exploring different career paths and traveling.

As far as what they plan to eat, there is a growing interest in vegan and plant-based products, with almost half of those surveyed interested in experimenting with these dietary alternatives.

When it comes to celebrities and activism, a large proportion of the Gen Z identify themselves as belonging to various fan communities, with these fandoms mainly themed around television, music and video games.

Young people also plan to become actively involved in causes close to their heart, notably through education, voting and using social networks to raise awareness of various issues.

These trends create a portrait of a generation concerned with sustainability, authentic relationships and self-expression, actively shaping global culture through their choices and habits on platforms like Instagram. – AFP Relaxnews