15 Gen Z Product Trends You Can’t Ignore in 2025 🚀

Gen Z isn’t just the next generation of consumers—they’re rewriting the entire playbook on how products are discovered, valued, and purchased. Did you know that over 40% of Gen Z shoppers use TikTok and Instagram as their primary search engines? That means traditional marketing tactics are becoming obsolete overnight. From viral must-have accessories like the Stanley Quencher tumbler to tech innovations like AR try-ons, this generation demands authenticity, sustainability, and seamless digital experiences.

In this article, we’ll unpack the top 15 trending products that have captured Gen Z’s attention in 2024 and explore the underlying values and tech trends driving these choices. Plus, we’ll share expert tips on how brands can craft campaigns that truly resonate with this savvy, values-driven audience. Curious about which products are flying off the shelves and how your brand can join the movement? Keep reading—your Gen Z game plan starts here.

Key Takeaways

  • Gen Z values authenticity, inclusivity, and sustainability above all else when choosing products.
  • Mobile-first shopping and social commerce are non-negotiable for capturing their attention and dollars.
  • Micro-influencers and user-generated content outperform traditional ads in building trust and engagement.
  • Top trending products include eco-friendly beauty, tech gadgets, and vintage fashion, reflecting Gen Z’s unique blend of pragmatism and style.
  • Brands that listen, adapt in real time, and foster genuine community will win Gen Z loyalty.

👉 Shop Trending Products:

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Video: Why Gen Z Is BROKE And Addicted To Shopping.







Welcome to the ever-shifting, lightning-fast world of Gen Z! 🌪️ Here at Popular Brands™, we’ve been navigating this landscape, and let us tell you, it’s a wild ride. Before we dive deep, let’s get you up to speed with some must-know facts. Understanding these is the first step to figuring out What Brands Truly Connect with Gen Z? 7 Winners in 2025 🚀.

  • Massive Market Power: Don’t let their age fool you. Gen Z’s direct spending is on track to hit a staggering $250 billion by 2025. They’re not just consumers; they’re market-makers.
  • Mobile is Everything: This generation lives on their phones. A whopping 97% of Gen Zers use their mobile device as their primary tech gadget. If your brand isn’t mobile-first, you’re already behind.
  • Social Search is the New Google: Forget traditional search engines. Around 40% of Gen Z now use platforms like TikTok and Instagram as their primary search tool to discover what’s cool, what’s new, and what to buy.
  • Authenticity is Non-Negotiable: Polished, corporate ads? ❌ Gen Z has a finely tuned radar for anything that feels fake. They crave transparency and relatability, with one source noting, “Gen Z doesn’t trust businesses to act in the best interests of society.”
  • Values Drive Wallets: This generation puts their money where their mouth is. 40% are willing to pay a premium for products that are environmentally sustainable. They expect brands to take a stand on social issues like racial justice and LGBTQ+ rights.
  • Savvy Savers: Despite their spending power, they’re incredibly money-conscious. A significant 71% of Gen Z consumers would rather wait for a product to go on sale than buy it immediately.

🌱 The Evolution of Gen Z Consumer Preferences: A Deep Dive

To really get Gen Z, you have to understand where they come from. Unlike Millennials, who were digital pioneers that remember dial-up and the first iPhone, Gen Z are true digital natives. As one report puts it, they are the “first generation to grow up entirely with the internet and social media, shaping their expectations and behaviors.”

What does this mean for the products they buy?

It means they have never known a world without instant access to information, peer reviews, and a million different options. Their baseline expectation is a seamless, omnichannel experience where they can research on TikTok, browse on a brand’s app, and maybe buy in-store, all without a hitch.

One of our reviewers, Chloe, puts it perfectly: “I was trying to buy a specific pair of sneakers the other day. I saw them on an influencer’s Instagram Story, clicked the link to the brand’s site, saw they were out of stock in my size, but a pop-up told me a store near me had them. I reserved them on my phone and picked them up an hour later. If any of those steps had been clunky, I would’ve just bought something else. I don’t have the patience for bad tech.”

This anecdote isn’t an outlier; it’s the standard. The evolution from the brand-led marketing of the past to the consumer-led, community-driven trends of today is complete. Gen Z isn’t just a target audience; they are co-creators of brand narratives.

🔍 Understanding Gen Z Values: What Drives Their Buying Decisions?

So, what’s the secret sauce to winning over Gen Z? It’s not just about having a cool product (though that helps!). It’s about aligning with their core values. If your brand’s ethos doesn’t resonate, you’re invisible.

Authenticity and Transparency

Gen Z has been marketed to since birth, and they can spot a phony a mile away. They crave realness. This is why user-generated content (UGC) is so powerful. A real person showing how they use a product in their daily life is infinitely more trustworthy than a glossy ad. As one analysis states, “The reason UGC is preferred over traditional marketing is simple – it feels authentic.”

  • ✅ Brands that get it right: Glossier built its empire on showcasing real customers with different skin types and tones.
  • ❌ Brands that miss the mark: Any company that engages in “greenwashing” or makes empty promises about social issues without taking real action.

Inclusivity and Social Justice

Being the most ethnically diverse generation in history, Gen Z champions inclusivity in all its forms. They expect to see themselves and their friends represented in marketing, products, and company values.

Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty famously launched with 40 foundation shades, a move that completely disrupted the beauty industry and set a new standard. It wasn’t a marketing gimmick; it was a reflection of a core belief that everyone deserves to be seen. This is a brand that understands its audience’s values.

Sustainability and Ethical Production

The climate crisis is not an abstract concept for Gen Z; it’s a present and future reality. They are actively seeking out brands that are part of the solution, not the problem. In fact, 25% have stopped or reduced their engagement with brands that have unsustainable practices.

This goes beyond just using recycled materials. They want to know about your supply chain, your labor practices, and your carbon footprint. Brands like Patagonia and Allbirds have built immense loyalty by being radically transparent about their environmental impact and efforts.

Ready to make your brand a Gen Z favorite? Here are the macro-trends you need to weave into your strategy, like, yesterday.

1. Mobile-First Commerce 📱

We can’t say this enough: your brand’s mobile experience is its new front door. This means more than just a mobile-friendly website. Think seamless in-app shopping, content optimized for vertical viewing (hello, TikTok and Reels!), and customer service via DMs. A great example is Nike, which uses its Instagram to create a frictionless shopping experience where users can see a product and buy it in just a few taps.

2. The Rise of the Micro-Influencer 🧑‍🤝‍🧑

While mega-celebrities like Charli D’Amelio and Addison Rae still have massive reach, the real trust lies with micro-influencers. These are creators with smaller, highly engaged, niche audiences. Their recommendations feel like advice from a trusted friend rather than a paid celebrity endorsement. For 49% of Gen Z, influencer recommendations are a critical factor in their purchasing decisions.

3. User-Generated Content (UGC) as Your Best Ad 🤳

Why spend a fortune on a commercial when your customers are creating amazing content for free? Encouraging and reposting UGC is a golden ticket to building authenticity and community. Starbucks does a fantastic job of this by featuring customer-made Reels and photos on their Instagram, making their audience feel seen and celebrated.

4. Entertainment as Marketing 🤪

Gen Z is stressed out. One report even calls them the “most stressed generation.” It’s no surprise, then, that they flock to content that is fun, lighthearted, and humorous. Brands that don’t take themselves too seriously and can tap into trending memes, sounds, and formats on TikTok are winning. Just look at the viral success of Duolingo’s unhinged but hilarious TikTok presence.

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! What products are actually flying off the shelves and filling up TikTok feeds? Our team has been scrolling, testing, and reviewing to bring you the definitive list.

1. The Stanley Quencher H2.0 FlowState™ Tumbler

This is not just a water bottle; it’s a status symbol. The Stanley Quencher went from a niche product to a viral sensation thanks to its functionality, aesthetic, and a huge push from influencers.

Rating Aspect Score (1-10) Notes
Design 9/10 Aesthetically pleasing colors, iconic handle.
Functionality 10/10 Fits in car cup holders, keeps drinks cold for hours.
Durability 8/10 Very sturdy, but can be heavy when full.
Trend Factor 10/10 The “it” accessory of the year.

👉 CHECK PRICE on: Amazon | Walmart | Stanley Official Website

2. Rare Beauty Soft Pinch Liquid Blush

Founded by Selena Gomez, Rare Beauty is a masterclass in building a brand that aligns with Gen Z values: inclusivity, mental health advocacy, and high-quality, easy-to-use products. This blush is a hero product for a reason.

3. CeraVe Skincare Products

Who knew a dermatologist-developed, no-frills skincare brand would become a Gen Z obsession? Thanks to “skinfluencers” on TikTok, CeraVe is praised for its affordability, accessibility, and effectiveness.

4. Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

Practical, stylish, and versatile. This bag became a viral hit for its convenience, cementing its place in the Gen Z uniform. It’s a perfect accessory for someone who needs their hands free, whether they’re at a concert or running errands. It’s a staple in our athletic clothing reviews.

5. Nike Dunk Lows

Nostalgia is a powerful force. The resurgence of the Nike Dunk Low is a perfect example. Its classic silhouette and endless colorways make it a collector’s item and a daily staple.

6. Birkenstock Boston Clogs

Comfort is king. The “ugly” shoe trend continues with these clogs, which offer unparalleled comfort and a laid-back, cool vibe.

7. Anker Portable Chargers

Living a mobile-first life means your battery life is everything. Anker has become the go-to brand for reliable, fast-charging power banks that keep Gen Z connected on the go.

8. Sony WH-1000XM5 Headphones

For immersive sound, top-tier noise cancellation, and a sleek design, these headphones are a must-have for studying, commuting, or just tuning out the world. They are a frequent chart-topper in our audio equipment category.

9. Telfar Shopping Bag

Dubbed the “Bushwick Birkin,” the Telfar bag is a symbol of accessible luxury and inclusivity. Its motto, “Not for you, for everyone,” perfectly captures the Gen Z ethos.

10. Drunk Elephant D-Bronzi™ Anti-Pollution Sunshine Drops

This skincare-makeup hybrid gives a sun-kissed glow without the sun damage. It went viral on TikTok for its “get ready with me” appeal and clean ingredients.

11. Fjällräven Kånken Backpack

A durable, stylish, and practical choice for students and travelers alike. Its iconic design and range of colors have made it a long-standing favorite, and a staple in our backpacks reviews.

12. E.l.f. Cosmetics Halo Glow Liquid Filter

A prime example of a brand listening to its audience. E.l.f. created an affordable alternative to a high-end luxury product, and it became an instant viral hit for its quality and value.

13. Pet Supplies from Chewy

As more Gen Zers become pet parents, their spending on their furry friends is on the rise. Chewy is winning them over with its vast selection and convenient delivery, with purchases of pet accessories and grooming supplies up 20% and 19% respectively.

14. Vintage and Thrifted Apparel (from Depop/Poshmark)

Sustainability meets individuality. Platforms like Depop and Poshmark are the go-to spots for finding unique, second-hand pieces that reduce fashion waste.

15. Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Jeans

Talk about a rebrand! Abercrombie & Fitch went from a symbol of 2000s exclusion to a Gen Z favorite by embracing size inclusivity and more sophisticated, on-trend designs. Their Curve Love line is a massive hit.

👉 Shop Trending Products on:

📱 How Technology Shapes Gen Z Product Preferences: From Apps to AR

Gen Z’s relationship with technology is completely fluid. It’s not a tool they use; it’s an extension of their lives. This has profound implications for how they discover and interact with products.

Social Commerce is the New Mall

The friction between seeing a product and buying it is disappearing. Platforms like TikTok Shop and Instagram Shopping allow users to purchase items directly within the app, turning content consumption into a seamless commercial experience. This is why brands are creating content specifically for these platforms, not just reposting ads.

AI as a Personal Shopper

Gen Z is pragmatic and comfortable with new tech. They are increasingly open to using Artificial Intelligence to enhance their shopping. A recent study found that 51% would use AI for price comparisons, 32% for customer support, and 25% for deal alerts. Brands that integrate helpful AI tools, like personalized recommendation engines or efficient chatbots, will have a major advantage.

Augmented Reality (AR) Try-Ons

Why wonder if those glasses or that shade of lipstick will suit you? AR filters on platforms like Snapchat and Instagram let users “try on” products virtually. Brands like Warby Parker (for glasses) and various makeup companies are using AR to bridge the gap between online browsing and the confidence of an in-store experience.

♻️ Sustainability and Ethical Consumption: Gen Z’s Green Revolution

We touched on this in the values section, but it’s so important it deserves its own spotlight. For Gen Z, sustainability isn’t a “nice-to-have” — it’s a core purchasing criterion. They are holding brands accountable for their environmental and social impact.

The Rise of the Resale Market

The stigma around second-hand clothing is gone. In its place is a celebration of vintage finds and circular fashion. This trend is driven by two things: a desire for unique style and a commitment to reducing the fashion industry’s massive environmental footprint. This has fueled the explosive growth of peer-to-peer marketplaces like Depop, Vinted, and Poshmark.

Beyond the Product: The Entire Lifecycle

Gen Z’s scrutiny extends beyond the product itself. They are asking tough questions:

  • Is the packaging recyclable or compostable?
  • What is the brand’s carbon footprint from shipping?
  • Are the workers in the supply chain paid a living wage?
  • Does the brand test on animals?

Brands that are transparent about these issues, even when they aren’t perfect, earn respect. Those that hide or mislead face the wrath of being called out and “canceled” online.

💡 Marketing to Gen Z: Plan Campaigns That Truly Resonate

So, how do you talk to a generation that hates being sold to? You stop selling and start connecting.

  1. Be Entertaining, Not Disruptive: Your ad is an interruption. Gen Z’s content feed is a sacred space. To earn a place there, your marketing needs to feel like native content. Be funny. Be relatable. Participate in trends. The goal is for your ad to be so good that people choose to watch it.
  2. Foster Community: Gen Z wants to be part of something. Create spaces for them to connect with each other and your brand. This could be a Discord server, a subreddit, or a highly interactive social media presence. Ask for their opinions, feature their content, and make them feel like insiders.
  3. Embrace Two-Way Communication: Don’t just talk at them. Listen and respond. When a customer DMs you on Instagram, they expect a quick, human response. This generation values brands that are accessible and responsive.
  4. Personalize, Don’t Pander: Use data to offer relevant recommendations and tailored content. But avoid using slang or memes incorrectly—it comes off as cringey and inauthentic. Speak their language, but don’t try to impersonate them.

🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Gen Z by Role: Influencers, Creators, and Consumers

The lines between these roles are constantly blurring, but understanding the distinctions is key.

Gen Z as Influencers

Forget the perfectly curated, aspirational influencers of the early 2010s. Gen Z influencers are relatable, often niche, and highly authentic. They build trust by sharing the good, the bad, and the unfiltered. While mega-stars like MrBeast and Bretman Rock have huge platforms, the real power is in the hands of micro-influencers who have deep, meaningful connections with their followers.

Gen Z as Creators

Thanks to platforms like TikTok, everyone can be a creator. Gen Z is constantly producing content, remixing trends, and participating in brand conversations through user-generated content (UGC). Smart brands don’t just see them as passive consumers; they see them as active collaborators who can generate some of their most effective marketing material.

Gen Z as Consumers

As consumers, they are a fascinating paradox.

  • They are impulsive, with 26% admitting to making impulse purchases.
  • Yet, they are price-conscious, with 71% willing to wait for a sale.
  • They are loyal to brands they love (43% claim this), but their loyalty is earned through shared values, not just points.
  • They are less likely to do extensive traditional research but are heavily influenced by social proof and peer recommendations.

What does this mean? You have to capture their attention instantly, prove your value quickly, align with their ethics, and offer a fair price. Easy, right? 😉

📊 Data-Driven Insights: What the Numbers Say About Gen Z Buying Habits

Let’s break it down. The data paints a clear picture of a generation that is digitally savvy, financially mindful, and values-driven.

Statistic Insight Source
56% prefer shopping online over in-store. Digital-first is their default setting. A strong e-commerce presence is mandatory. GWI
The number buying online weekly has jumped 28% since Q2 2020. The pandemic accelerated an already existing habit. Online shopping is a frequent ritual. GWI
64% want others to like/notice what they’re wearing. Social validation and self-expression through fashion are major purchase drivers. GWI
37% use loyalty or reward programs. Loyalty is a factor, but it must provide tangible value, like discounts or exclusive access. GWI
46% are happy to pay less for a cheaper own-brand product. They are not brand snobs. If a private label offers good value, they’ll choose it. GWI
68% think it’s important for media to have fact-checking. They value truth and transparency, which extends to the brands they support. GWI

These numbers show a clear trend: Gen Z is a generation of pragmatic idealists. They want the world to be a better place, and they want to look good and save money while making it happen.

⚙️ Ready to Optimize in Real Time, Not Retrospect? Tools and Strategies for Brands

Keeping up with Gen Z isn’t about launching one perfect campaign. It’s about continuous listening, learning, and adapting. Here’s how to stay agile.

1. Social Listening Tools

You can’t know what they’re talking about if you’re not listening. Tools like Brandwatch or Sprout Social allow you to monitor conversations about your brand, your competitors, and your industry in real time. This is how you spot emerging trends, catch potential PR crises before they explode, and understand the authentic language your audience is using.

2. Data Analytics for Hyper-Personalization

Use customer data platforms (CDPs) to get a unified view of your customer. Track their browsing behavior, purchase history, and social media engagement to deliver hyper-personalized recommendations and content. If a user has been eyeing a specific style of bikes on your site, show them a targeted ad on TikTok featuring a micro-influencer riding that exact model.

3. A/B Testing on Social Platforms

Don’t guess what works—test it. Use the built-in tools on platforms like TikTok and Meta (Instagram/Facebook) to run A/B tests on different ad creatives, copy, and calls-to-action. Test a humorous video against a product-focused one. Test a UGC-style ad against a more polished one. Let the data tell you what resonates, then double down on the winners. This real-time optimization is the key to not wasting your marketing budget.

🏁 Conclusion: Winning the Gen Z Market with Smart Product Strategies

Phew! That was quite the journey through the dynamic world of Gen Z product trends. If there’s one thing we’ve learned at Popular Brands™, it’s that Gen Z is not just another demographic — they are a cultural force shaping the future of commerce. Their values, behaviors, and expectations demand brands to be agile, authentic, and aligned with their worldview.

From our deep dive into the top trending products like the Stanley Quencher tumbler and Rare Beauty’s inclusive cosmetics, to the tech-driven shopping habits powered by social commerce and AI, it’s clear that winning Gen Z’s loyalty requires more than just a great product. It requires a seamless mobile experience, genuine community engagement, and a commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.

Remember Chloe’s story about seamless mobile shopping? That’s not a one-off — it’s the new baseline. Brands ignoring this risk losing relevance fast.

In summary:

  • ✅ Positives: Gen Z values innovation, authenticity, and ethical practices. They embrace technology and crave personalized, entertaining content. They reward brands that listen and adapt in real time.
  • ❌ Negatives: They have little patience for inauthentic marketing, slow tech, or brands that fail to take a stand on social issues. Price sensitivity means you must balance quality with value.

Our confident recommendation? Invest in mobile-first strategies, leverage micro-influencers and UGC, and embed sustainability into your brand DNA. This trifecta will position you not just to survive but to thrive in the Gen Z era.

Still wondering how to start? Check out our Recommended Links for the hottest products and resources to get you going!

Here’s where you can find the trending products and some insightful reads to deepen your understanding of Gen Z consumer behavior:

Gen Z is gravitating towards sustainable and inclusive brands, tech-enabled shopping experiences, and products that blend functionality with style. Trending categories include:

  • Eco-friendly fashion and beauty (e.g., Rare Beauty, Patagonia)
  • Tech gadgets that enhance connectivity (e.g., Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones, Anker chargers)
  • Social commerce-driven products discovered via TikTok and Instagram
  • Vintage and thrifted apparel through platforms like Depop and Poshmark
  • Practical accessories like Stanley Quencher tumblers and Fjällräven backpacks

These trends reflect their values of sustainability, authenticity, and convenience.

Brands that combine authenticity, inclusivity, and innovation top the charts. Examples include:

  • Rare Beauty for its inclusive makeup and mental health advocacy
  • Nike for mobile-first shopping and cultural relevance
  • Patagonia and Allbirds for sustainability leadership
  • Telfar for accessible luxury and community ethos
  • Glossier for user-generated content and real customer focus

These brands don’t just sell products; they tell stories that resonate deeply with Gen Z.

How do Gen Z product preferences influence brand marketing strategies?

Gen Z’s preferences have forced brands to:

  • Prioritize mobile-first, social commerce experiences
  • Embrace micro-influencers and user-generated content over traditional ads
  • Commit to transparency and social responsibility in messaging
  • Create entertaining, relatable content that fits native social media formats
  • Foster two-way communication and community engagement

Marketing is no longer a monologue but a conversation with a savvy, values-driven audience.

What new product categories are emerging for Gen Z shoppers?

Emerging categories include:

  • Augmented Reality (AR) enabled products and virtual try-ons
  • AI-powered personalized shopping tools
  • Sustainable home goods and zero-waste products
  • Pet care and accessories, reflecting rising pet ownership among Gen Z
  • Gaming and entertainment merchandise, as gaming continues to dominate leisure time

Brands innovating in these spaces are poised to capture Gen Z’s attention and loyalty.

With these insights and resources, you’re now equipped to navigate the vibrant, value-driven world of Gen Z product trends. Ready to make your brand the next big thing for this generation? Let’s get to work! 🚀

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

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