My friends have joked that I'm a "fake Gen Zer" despite being born in 1995. Admittedly, they're not wrong. I'm always in tune with what's happening among 20-somethings, watching the same shows and listening to the same music. Yes, I'm obsessed with Sterling Point and Olivia Rodrigo. I'm equally fascinated by Gen Z fashion, specifically the trends they're adopting. Most recently on my radar? Winter's buzziest silhouettes. Sure, I may be a millennial, but that's not stopping me from trying a few of these looks on for size.
Honestly, many influencers I follow for fashion inspiration fall into the Gen Z camp. Think Ruby Lyn, Hadley Greene, and Lucy McFadin. After taking a quick scroll through their profiles and others, I have a pretty good idea of which cold-weather trends will be a hit among this age group. But I have a feeling they'll resonate with other generations too, or at least, that's what I'm telling myself.
Without further ado, check out six winter trends endorsed by Gen Z fashion people.
Military Jackets
(Image credit: @hadleyhgreene)For millennials, military jackets are by no means new, having been a sought-after staple in the early aughts. (Even Beyoncé was a fan.) Gen Z, though, is likely trying the trend for the first time. Rather than pairing the outerwear with 2000s-inspired skinny jeans, the Gen Z style set is opting for baggy denim. I'm so on board.
Shop Military Jackets Free People Fitted Velvet Military Jacket Amanda Uprichard Emma Jacket H&M Short Cotton Jacket Lioness Rush Hour JacketLeather Pants
(Image credit: @hannahlovey)Most of us own a leather jacket, but how about leather pants? Sure, the bottoms may have a rock 'n' roll reputation, but Gen Z fashion people are taking them in a more polished direction this winter. Up top, a silk cami or crisp white button-down softens the edgy silhouette.
Shop Leather Pants Gap Mid Rise Recycled Vegan Leather Relaxed Straight Pants J.Crew Zoe Barrel Pant in Faux Leather Eloquii Adjustable Waist Faux Leather Wide-Leg Pant Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Vegan Leather High Rise Wide Leg PantFaux-Fur Scarves
(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)From what I've observed, Gen Zers tend to be practical dressers, often prioritizing comfort. As such, it's no surprise 20-somethings are keeping warm in style this winter. Enter faux-fur scarves. Whether in classic black or rich brown, the accent strikes the perfect balance between functional and fashion-forward.
Shop Faux-Fur Scarves Apparis Kai Faux Fur Scarf Ann Taylor Faux Fur Wrap By Malene Birger Pella Scarf ZARA Faux Fur Scarf With Slit in EcruFlannel Tops
(Image credit: @lucyraemcfadin)In high school, I had quite the collection of flannels from Hollister and Abercrombie & Fitch. Though I don't think I've owned one since, I'm now tempted to welcome the cozy shirt back into my wardrobe thanks to Gen Z's newfound affinity for the checkered shirt.
Shop Flannel Tops Madewell The Easy Shirt in 100% Cotton Flannel Universal Standard Maine Stretch Flannel Shirt Elodie the Label Henrietta Plaid Shirt Aerie Anytime Fave Flannel Oversized ShirtCamo Print
(Image credit: @rubylyn_)Suddenly, I'm spotting camo print everywhere, including on the feeds of my favorite Gen Z influencers. A jacket in the utilitarian pattern makes perfect sense for chilly weather, but don't sleep on camo pants, either. They're sure to get just as much wear.
Shop Camo Pieces KanCan Jax Faux Fur Camo Jacket ZARA Trf Printed Baggy Fit Jeans Tna Mighty Cotton Wicket Longsleeve The North Face Lhotse LT Insulated JacketSlouchy Boots
(Image credit: @allisonho)The slouchier, the better seems to be the motto among Gen Zers. Many are gravitating toward suede designs, though leather slouchy boots are equally chic. When the weather is unbearably cold, tuck your pants into the roomy shoes for a cozy, effortlessly cool look.
Shop Slouchy Boots Staud Wally Suede Slouch Boots H&M Knee-High Split Suede Boots Free People Kiki Kitten Heel Boots Anonymous Copenhagen Jasmina 50 Stiletto Calf Suede & Sleek Leather Cinnamon & Dark Taupe