While Millenials are known for obsessing over brunch and stocking up on avocados, the Gen Z population is a whole other can of worms. They post dance videos online, they use confusing words like slaps, and their style is unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. Seriously, since when did tiny sunglasses become fashionable?
Gen Zers are kids (and I say kids because, well, most of them are) born between the years 1995 to 2019 and they are the hardest demographic to shop for. I am only a couple of years older than the oldest Gen Zer and even I struggle to understand what they’re interested in. But, after a little bit of research and a few too many hours on TikTok, I think I’ve cracked the Gen Z code.
So, if you’ve got a couple of Gen Zer’s on your Christmas list this year and you’re struggling to figure out what to buy them, you’ve come to the right place. From simple stocking stuffers to pricier items, here are some gift ideas for that Gen Z in your life.
Athleisure
The teens love athleisure. In fact, it’s all they wear these days. They wear athleisure to school, they wear athleisure to the mall…heck, they even wear athleisure to parties. You cannot go wrong with picking up a pair of leggings, biker shorts, joggers, sweatpants, or a sweatshirt as a gift. Oh, and you’ll get bonus points if said athleisure wear is tie-dye.
Scrunchies
The ‘80s are back in so many different ways, one of them being the return of the scrunchie. Forget those tiny black bands I used to pull up my hair with back in high school, teens are all about the scrunchie these days.
Ring Light
Ring lights used to only be something Kim Kardashian used to take selfies and now they’re everywhere. If the person in your life is trying to become a TikTok star or they want their YouTube career to flourish, purchasing a ring light is the way to go.
Cool Sneakers or Boots
When in doubt, go for a cool pair of sneakers. Nike Air Force 1’s are very in style these days with the teens, as is Doc Martens and Converse. Kids are wearing their sneaks with everything, so you’ll at least know your gift will be worn.
Skincare Over Makeup
As the years have gone by, teens are becoming less and less interested in the “heavy makeup look.” Yes, the Kardashians have encouraged all of us to contour our faces within an inch of our lives, but kids these days tend to prefer a more natural look.
Instead of going for that contour kit or eyeshadow palette, grab a skincare product instead. In fact, Glossier is a great place to find light, natural makeup the Gen Z in your life will love.
AirPods
It’s true that people of all ages love AirPods, but I don’t know if Gen-Zers know how to function without AirPods. They’re in their ears all the time. AirPods are a tad pricey — especially if you chose to get the AirPods Pro — but I promise the teen in your life will be jumping for joy when they open those precious headphones.
