Gen Z Says is a bi-monthly column chronicling the latest trends in the fashion-and-beauty space through the lens of Who What Wear's own Gen Z editors. Expect a download on the upcoming class of tastemakers, emerging designers, and shopping and style choices straight from the generation setting the trends.
I just turned 29, and while that's still an incredibly young age (your words, not mine), I can't help but feel a wee bit out of touch with the youth. Over the last few years, my personal style has remained in the "selectively trendy" department, clear of viral aesthetics and TikTok personas—I mean, just yesterday I had to look up what "dark academia" was. A millennial being out of touch with Gen Z is not breaking news, so instead of me trying to explain things to you, I got my fellow editor, Kaitlin Clapinski, to do all the hard work. She's bringing you three of the most wearable, Gen Z–approved ensembles to try as we enter the colder months—all from Nordstrom. These looks range from rain-ready to an off-duty ballerina vibe that is both comfortable and cool, and while they're all on-trend, they aren't as intimidating as you'd think. Take it from me.
"I feel like I'm cosplaying a preppy private school kid, and I'm not mad about it. This look combines a bunch of my favorite popular pieces and cold-weather trends, including a sport jacket with a funnel neck that's equal parts functional and cool. I'm really into the Longchamp revival—I think they're the best totes. And although I was initially averse to Hunter boots, I get it now. They're such a fun option compared to sneakers or Chelsea boots for rainy days." — Kaitlin Clapinski
"I styled a casual long-sleeve T-shirt with cargo pants, but the cozy navy fleece from Free People really completes the look. In L.A., it can go from a brisk morning to near-summer temperatures come afternoon, so layers are everything. The Salomons are a comfortable, sporty touch too." — Clapinski
"These Puma sneakerinas (I know, I cheated on my Salomons) are shockingly comfortable and don't require laces, which I love. I like how they just barely peek out from underneath the flared pants. The entire look feels like a modern Gen Z take on the early 2000s Pilates princess or balletcore trend." — Clapinski
