It’s no secret that fashion, lifestyle, and cultural trends are cyclical. What’s old often becomes new again, with each generation putting their own spin on things. But sometimes, younger generations might not realize that the “new” trends they’re embracing have actually been around for decades. Case in point: many of the trends that Gen Z is currently loving were originally pioneered by the Baby Boomer generation.
From sustainable living to vintage fashion, Boomers were ahead of the curve in many ways. They were the original champions of many lifestyle choices and innovations that are now being revived and celebrated by younger generations. So, let’s take a trip down memory lane and explore some quintessentially Boomer trends that Gen Z is bringing back – even if they think they discovered them first!
Staycations
Long before Instagram made it cool to explore your own backyard, Boomers were masters of the staycation. They appreciated the simple joy of discovering local gems and enjoying leisure time at home, without the need for expensive, far-flung vacations. Boomers knew that you didn’t have to travel far to have a meaningful and refreshing break from the daily grind.
Writing Letters
In the age of instant messaging and email, the art of letter writing might seem quaint and old-fashioned. But for Boomers, it was a cherished way to communicate with friends and loved ones near and far. The act of putting pen to paper, crafting thoughtful messages, and waiting eagerly for a response in the mail was a meaningful and intimate form of connection that many Gen Z individuals are rediscovering.
Plant-Based Diets
While plant-based diets and veganism have exploded in popularity in recent years, Boomers were exploring these eating habits long before they were trendy. In the 1960s and 70s, many Boomers were drawn to vegetarianism and plant-based eating for a variety of reasons, including health concerns, environmental awareness, and spiritual or philosophical beliefs. They paved the way for the current mainstream acceptance of meat-free lifestyles.
Meditation and Yoga
Mindfulness, meditation, and yoga might be buzzwords in today’s wellness industry, but Boomers were practicing these ancient traditions long before they were cool. Influenced by Eastern philosophies and the counterculture movement of the 1960s and 70s, many Boomers embraced these practices as a way to reduce stress, increase self-awareness, and promote overall well-being. They helped to lay the foundation for the modern popularity of mindfulness and yoga in the Western world.
Tie-Dye
Tie-dye is having a major moment in Gen Z fashion, but Boomers were rocking this colorful, psychedelic style decades ago. In the 1960s and 70s, tie-dye shirts, dresses, and accessories were a symbol of the counterculture movement, representing peace, freedom, and individuality. Boomers made tie-dye a fashion statement that has endured for generations, proving that groovy never goes out of style.
Sustainable Living
Before “eco-friendly” and “zero waste” were marketing buzzwords, many Boomers were already living sustainably out of necessity and a respect for resources. They fixed broken items instead of replacing them, reused and repurposed materials, and grew their own food long before urban gardening became a trendy hobby. Boomers understood the value of living simply and minimizing waste, and their example is inspiring younger generations to adopt more sustainable habits.
Vintage Fashion
Gen Z might be raiding their grandparents’ closets for fashion inspiration, but little do they know, they’re actually channeling some serious Boomer style. High-waisted jeans, oversized sunglasses, and bold prints were all staples of Boomer fashion in their youth. What younger generations now consider “vintage” or “retro” was once the height of fashion for Boomers, who expressed their individuality and creativity through their clothing choices.
DIY and Handmade Crafts
The current popularity of DIY projects and handmade goods owes a lot to the resourcefulness and creativity of the Boomer generation. From knitting and sewing to woodworking and pottery, Boomers mastered the art of making things from scratch. They passed down these skills and the value of self-sufficiency to younger generations, who are now embracing the satisfaction and uniqueness of handmade items in a mass-produced world.
Vinyl Records
While streaming may be the dominant way to consume music today, many Gen Z music lovers are discovering the joy of vinyl records – a format that Boomers know well. For Boomers, vinyl was the primary way to listen to their favorite albums, and the tactile experience of holding a record, admiring the cover art, and carefully placing the needle was a cherished ritual. The current vinyl revival is a testament to the enduring appeal of this classic format.
Natural and Organic Foods
The organic and natural food movement might seem like a recent trend, but Boomers were early adopters of this way of eating. They valued home-cooked meals made from fresh, whole ingredients and sought out natural and organic options long before they were widely available in supermarkets. Boomers understood the importance of knowing where their food came from and how it was produced, paving the way for the current emphasis on clean eating and sustainable agriculture.
Minimalism
While minimalism has become a popular lifestyle choice in recent years, many Boomers were living by the “less is more” philosophy long before it was trendy. They valued quality over quantity and understood the benefits of living with less clutter and fewer possessions. Boomers’ emphasis on simplicity and intentional living has inspired younger generations to reassess their consumption habits and seek out a more minimalist approach to life.
Home Remedies
Before the internet made it easy to look up natural remedies for every ailment, Boomers relied on the wisdom of their elders and traditional home remedies to treat common health issues. From using honey to soothe a sore throat to applying aloe vera to sunburns, Boomers knew the power of natural ingredients and passed down this knowledge to younger generations. The current popularity of natural and holistic health practices owes a lot to the Boomers’ trust in these time-honored remedies.
Outdoor Play and Adventure
In an age where children’s free time is often dominated by screens and structured activities, many Gen Z parents are rediscovering the value of unstructured outdoor play – something that Boomers knew well. Growing up in a time before video games and smartphones, Boomers spent their childhoods exploring the great outdoors, using their imaginations, and engaging in physical activity. They understood the importance of connecting with nature and learning through play, and their example is inspiring younger generations to prioritize outdoor time for their own children.
Activism and Protests
While Gen Z is known for their passionate activism and willingness to speak out on social and political issues, they’re following in the footsteps of the Boomer generation. In the 1960s and 70s, Boomers were at the forefront of some of the most significant social movements in history, from civil rights to anti-war protests. They understood the power of collective action and the importance of standing up for their beliefs, paving the way for the current wave of youth-led activism.
Thrifting and Upcycling
Thrift shopping and upcycling might be popular among Gen Z for both financial and environmental reasons, but Boomers were the original masters of making the most of what they had. They knew how to give old items new life, whether it was mending clothes, repurposing furniture, or finding creative uses for everyday objects. Boomers’ resourcefulness and aversion to waste have inspired younger generations to embrace secondhand shopping and DIY projects as a way to save money and reduce their environmental impact.
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