As we look ahead to 2023, Gen Z is poised to make a significant impact on the world of fashion, social justice, beauty, web3, financial, food, creator trends, music, and dating. Instagram surveyed Gen Z users across the United States to gather insights on what the coming year has in store. The top responses when asked to sum up 2023 in one word were Healing, Energized, and Main Character Energy. This post will delve into the findings of each of these categories and how Gen Z plans to shape the future.
Fashion – Recycle, Reuse, Reconstruct
Sustainability is a key issue for Gen Z, and in 2023, they plan to take fashion into their own hands. More than half of Gen Z respondents said they plan to DIY their clothes, opting for a sustainable alternative to fast-fashion. They are also frugal and thrifty, cutting back and getting creative with their wardrobe choices. Over a quarter of Gen Z buyers turn to thrifting when a clothing item is out of budget.
Social Justice – Taking Action
Gen Z is an activist generation, and in 2023, more members of Gen Z will use their dollars to support causes and communities they care about. Expect increased visibility and activism for political issues, such as disability advocacy, which Gen Z is passionate about. As more young Americans reach voting age, we can expect to see more Gen Z politicians, such as the first Gen Z member of Congress, Maxwell Frost. Here in Australia, Animal Justice Party MP Georgie Purcell has set the record in 2023 as the youngest woman elected to the Victorian Legislative Council.
Beauty – Climate and Expressive Beauty
Makeup and beauty products are a form of self-expression for Gen Z. They are likely to use makeup to express their personality rather than augment their feeling of beauty. Expect to see Gen Z wear experimental and expressive makeup looks wherever they’re comfortable. Impacts of climate change are driving Gen Z shoppers to buy protective skincare and beauty products, with 2 out of 3 Gen Z shoppers planning to buy such products in 2023.
Web3 – Alt Takes On The Metaverse
Gen Z plans to build a more recognizable world in the metaverse, expressing their individuality and dedication to equity in digital spaces. They expect avatars to better reflect diverse body types, clothing, and skin tones in the coming year. Virtual influencers offer real inspiration, with over half of Gen Z social media users planning to get fashion or beauty inspiration from digital avatars or influencers in 2023.
Financial – The Financial Renaissance
Nearly two thirds of Gen Z plans to use social media to make money in 2023. They plan to monetise their content creation and side hustles, with 64% of Gen Z social media users planning to monetise a project this year. Financial literacy is a priority skill for Gen Z, with 85% planning to learn a new skill in 2023, with a quarter of teen social media users wanting to increase their skills in finance.
Food – Plant-based and Sustainable
Gen Z is increasingly concerned about the environment and animal welfare, leading to a growing interest in plant-based and sustainable food options. Over half of Gen Z respondents said they plan to eat less meat in 2023. They are also more likely to shop for sustainable food options, with two-thirds of Gen Z shoppers planning to buy eco-friendly food products in 2023.
Gen Z is exploring culture through cuisine, and they are open to trying new foods from different cultures that they discover online. They are also more likely to participate in global food experiences, such as cooking classes and food tours.
Creator Trends – Authenticity and Diversity
Gen Z values authenticity and diversity in creators, with over 80% of Gen Z respondents saying they want to follow influencers who are genuine and relatable. They also want to see a more diverse range of creators, with three-quarters of Gen Z social media users wanting to follow an influencer who represents a different culture or background. Expect to see more creators from underrepresented communities on Instagram in 2023.
Music – Return of the Rave and Rise of Global Beats
Gen Z is embracing new sounds and artists, with a majority of Gen Z respondents saying they plan to discover new music in 2023. They also want to see more representation of marginalised communities in the music industry, with over 70% of Gen Z social media users wanting to follow an artist who represents a different culture or background.
Dating – Your 2023 Dating Profile
Gen Z is embracing new ways of connecting, with a majority of Gen Z respondents saying they plan to try online dating in 2023. They also want to see more representation of marginalized communities in dating apps, with over 70% of Gen Z social media users wanting to see more diversity in dating app profiles.
In conclusion, 2023 is shaping up to be a year of healing, energization, and self-expression for Gen Z. They are taking a stand for sustainability and social justice, embracing self-expression in beauty and fashion, building a more diverse and inclusive digital world, and taking control of their financial futures. As we move forward, it’s important to keep an eye on Gen Z’s trends and values as they continue to shape our world.
