Boomers Did It First: Modern Trends That Aren’t as New as Gen Z Thinks

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Each generation believes they’re the trendsetters, crafting the next big thing. Yet, as Gen Z claims certain styles and habits as their own, they might be startled to realize Boomers got there first. Whether it’s the green movement or the return of vinyl, let’s explore the trends where Boomers can confidently declare, “We started that!”

Tie-Dye

While Gen Z has recently embraced tie-dye as a vibrant and trendy fashion statement, especially during the DIY craze of the pandemic, Boomers were the original champions of this colorful style. Back in the 1960s and 1970s, tie-dye shirts became synonymous with the counterculture movement, peace protests, and the Woodstock music festival. It was a symbol of freedom, individuality, and the hippie spirit. So, every time a Gen Z individual slips on a tie-dye hoodie or socks, they’re channeling some serious Boomer vibes!

Sustainable Living

Before “zero waste” became a hashtag, many Boomers were already practicing sustainable living. They fixed broken items instead of replacing them, reused glass bottles, and grew their own vegetables long before it became a trendy urban hobby.

Vintage Fashion

High-waisted jeans, oversized sunglasses, and tie-dye shirts? Boomers rocked these styles during their youth. What Gen Z considers “retro” or “vintage” fashion was just everyday attire for the Boomer generation.

DIY and Handmade Crafts

While DIY crafts and handmade goods are all the rage on platforms like Etsy, Boomers were the original DIYers. From knitting and sewing to woodworking, they mastered the art of making things from scratch.

Vinyl Records

Vinyl might be making a comeback with younger generations seeking authentic sound experiences, but for Boomers, vinyl was the primary way to listen to their favorite tunes.

Natural and Organic Foods

Before there were organic sections in supermarkets, Boomers were already leaning towards natural foods. They appreciated home-cooked meals made from fresh ingredients, long before the organic food movement took off.

Minimalism

While Marie Kondo might have popularized decluttering for the younger generation, Boomers often lived by the principle of “less is more,” valuing quality over quantity.

Home Remedies

Before Google, there was Grandma’s wisdom. Boomers often relied on home remedies, from honey for sore throats to aloe vera for burns, long before these natural cures became widely popular.

Outdoor Play and Adventure

Before video games and smartphones, Boomers spent their childhood playing outside, climbing trees, and embarking on real-life adventures, emphasizing the importance of imagination and physical activity.

Activism and Protests

While Gen Z is vocal about their causes on social media, Boomers were hitting the streets, organizing, and participating in some of history’s most influential protests and movements.

Thrifting and Upcycling

Today’s youth might think they’ve pioneered the art of thrifting and upcycling, but Boomers were masters at giving old items new life, whether it was furniture, clothing, or household items.

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