2023 Gen-Z Fashion Trends

There is no avoiding the fact that Gen-Zers are making waves in the fashion industry. Gen-Z, also known as the Zoomers, is believed to be more financially independent, thrifty, and health-conscious than any previous generation. Though fashionistas currently like the Gen-Z era's fashion, in 2022, we can expect to see Y2K inspirations make their way into mainstream culture.


Eyewear is no longer what it used to be. Glasses are now more than simply an accessory to see, with the coolest, most fashionable frames available. Sunglasses are a staple of Gen-Z fashion, and they're just as important now as they were in the early 2000s.


Check out these interesting fashion trends and discover how we can help you learn more about this fun fashion movement, specifically eyewear. We’re going to break down each trend and how Gen-Zers wear them.


Maybe you’ll find something that you want to wear!

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Trending Gen-Z Fashion of 2023


So, what’s trending in the Gen-Z fashion world?


It wouldn't be summer without some love for the Gen-Zers that use sunglasses as a staple of their outfits. But with such a wide range of eyewear available in the market, it may be difficult to find one that meets all of your fashion requirements. Luckily, we've done this work for you by identifying some key trends in eyewear that are popular among Gen-Z in the year 2023. You’re about to find the best sunglasses for you!


Which Sunglasses Are Trending in 2023


The 2000s brought a tremendous change to what it meant to be fashionable. This is likely because of the cultural influence of popular music and movies like The Notebook, High School Musical, and Mean Girls. Popular sunglasses in the 2000s were very square, large, bright, and decorated with phrases like “Don’t Hate.”

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When it comes to eyewear, sunglasses are a great accessory for expressing yourself and showing off your personality.


Oversized and statement glasses are still going big in 2023. But, we're also seeing a move toward more classic shapes like Aviators and Cat-eyes. And, while bright colors are still popular, we're seeing a lot of people opting for more subdued hues like black, brown, and tortoiseshell.


Nordstrom’s fashion director for accessories and footwear Beth Kanfer says, “From futuristic to retro (silhouettes), or bright and bold color, it is all about sunglasses in striking shapes.” Scott Murchison, Illesteva’s West Coast regional manager, says, “Thick acetate frames with fun and vibrantly tinted lenses are the year’s must-have item.”


One of the biggest Gen-Z trends we're seeing for 2023 is the resurgence of retro styles. Think thick, black frames reminiscent of your favorite '80s movies. But, instead of being made from plastic, they will make these glasses from more sustainable materials like bamboo, and recycled plastic.


Another big trend we're seeing is the rise of eco-friendly glasses. More and more people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint, and choosing eco-friendly sunglasses is a great way to do that. Look for frames made from sustainable materials like bamboo, acetate, or even recycled aluminum.


We're also seeing Gen-Z opting for prescription sunglasses instead of just wearing contacts or regular glasses. Prescription sunglasses offer the best of both worlds – you can still see clearly, and you don't have to worry about losing them at the beach!


Get the Look: Top 5 Gen-Z Sunglasses Trends 2023 


One of the biggest trends for 2023 that Gen-Z has made a part of their personality is statement sunglasses. These are sunglasses that make a bold fashion statement. They can be big and colorful, or they can have unique shapes and designs. If you want to stand out from the crowd, statement sunglasses are the way to go.


Another trend we think is popular with Gen-Z in 2022 is tonality. Tonality is when everything you're wearing is either one color or various shades of one color. For example, you could wear all black or all white. Or you could mix different shades of blue or green. This trend is casual and encouraging because it's easy to put together and it looks good on everyone.


Looking for the perfect pair of sunglasses to elevate your style? Here are four Gen-Z sunglasses trends of 2023.


1. Oversized Frames


Oversized frames were all the rage in 2021, and they're not going anywhere in 2022. If you want your preferred pair of sunglasses that hide half your face yet have an Uber look, the aesthetically oversized sunglasses are just for you. It is everywhere yet again in 2022, recently spotted by many celebrities.




This look is perfect for the Gen-Z youth who want to make a statement with their eyewear. Oversized frames are also great for those who have wider faces, as they help to balance out the proportions. They look classically feminine and dominating.

For an elegant look, try a traditional fashioned outfit, such as an oversized, unisex shirt, creating a style that is both svelte and workwear-ready, while being stylish.

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           ​​ @leoniehanne

2. Colorful Lenses and Frames


Colorful lenses are another trend that continues to be big in 2022. If you want your sunglasses to really stand out, go for a pair with colorful lenses. From vibrant greens to electric blues, there are endless possibilities with lens colors.


Gen-Z prefers bold framed spectacles for an energetic look, and this season there is a colorful variety to pick from. Choose a color that matches your outfit while sticking to a shape you're already familiar with.

For an eye-catching style, pair bold spectacles with a vibrant cashmere sweater or turtleneck.

3. Mirrored Lenses


Mirrored lenses are perfect for those who want to add a little bit of edge to their style. These sunglasses have a reflective surface that helps to reflect light away from your eyes. This trend will be especially popular among those who love athleisure wear.


Gen-Z, who wants to make a sporty look with their sunglasses, goes for a pair with metal frames. Mirrored sunglasses can help to reflect light and reduce glare, making them perfect for days spent outdoors.


Find a striped button-down top and pair it with a navy blue jacket, thin pants, white lace-up flat shoes, and mirrored sunglasses, to create a sporty, elegant look.


4. Cat-Eye Lenses


Cat-eye frames are timeless and chic, and they're always in style. If you want a classic pair of sunglasses that will never go out of fashion, go for a pair of cat-eye frames. There are lots of different takes on cat-eye sunglasses, so you can find a pair that suits your personal style.


Cat-eye sunglasses were all the rage in the 1950s and Gen-Zers are making it a comeback in a big way. This retro style is perfect for those who want to add a touch of vintage glamour to their look. Paris Hilton, a globally popular fashionista, was recently seen in an oversized cat-eye silhouette.


This retro-classic vintage-inspired look will look great with any of your favorite midi skirts with a throwback touch.


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5. Retro Oval Sunglasses


When you think of Hepburn you think of her beautiful black dress; when you think of Monroe you think of her blonde hair, and when you say Kurt Cobain you think of that retro oval frame.


This style came back into the limelight, pushing the popularity of oval sunglasses to a climax. If you're looking for a timeless pair of sunglasses, oval sunglasses are the way to go. 


As the crowd leads Y2K clothing back into the fashion world, Gen-zer, who is looking for a new trendy and retro chic look, will not miss such a pair of sunglasses.


Y2K fashion has a distinct style due to fusing millennium pop culture with the newest technological breakthroughs.


The top Y2K fashion trends available right now, in 2022 are Shiny Outfits, Baby Tees, Wide-Leg Denim Jeans, Double Denim, Ribbed Cardigans, Mini Skirts, Tie-Front Tops, Velour Track Sets, Translucent Clothing, Baguette Bags, Kitsch Accessories, Bandanas, Butterfly Hair Clips.    


Conclusion


According to Dr. Courtney Jorda, "Gen-Zers don't want to spend money on things they're not sure are right for them." Fashion trends will continue to change as the generations go by, and not everyone will follow every trend that is out there.

Eventually, Gen-Z will be the leaders of society and older generations will follow the Gen-Z trends that appeal to them the most.