SA’s Gen Z has opened up a brave new world of style

South African youths’ fashion is definitely a vibrant tapestry woven with threads of tradition, global influence, and a dash of: “Did I really just see that?”

Oversized sunglasses have always been a statement, but today’s youth have taken it to entomological extremes.

These bug-eyed behemoths are less about shielding from the sun and more about making sure they’re spotted from space.

One can’t help but wonder if they’re doubling as portable magnifying glasses for impromptu insect studies.

Something that gives me a twitch in my neck is the once ultimate fashion faux pas. Pairing socks with sandals has been resurrected as the epitome of cool.

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It’s as if the youth collectively decided that comfort trumps aesthetics, and who are we to argue? Perhaps it’s a nod to the unpredictability of South African weather – a readiness for both beach and blizzard.

I have also noticed that traditional Shweshwe fabric has made a triumphant return, but with a twist. Young fashionistas are incorporating these vibrant patterns into everything from sneakers to snapbacks, blending heritage with haute couture.

It’s a beautiful homage to culture, though seeing a Shweshwe tracksuit can be as surprising as finding biltong in a vegan café. Why choose between modernity and tradition when you can have both?

Enter the technotribal trend: USB necklaces, beaded earbuds and wireless chargers adorned with Zulu beadwork.

It’s the perfect fusion of past and present, though one does wonder about the practicality of a beaded phone case during load shedding.

High-waisted, wide-legged, and often in the loudest prints imaginable, have made cargo pants a staple. They’re as bold as the youth wearing them, making a statement that’s hard to ignore.

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Practical? Debatable. But in a world where subtlety is overrated, why not? Brave? In my eyes, yes. Eco-consciousness is in vogue, with thrift shopping and upcycling becoming the norm.

It’s heartening to see the youth championing sustainability, though the irony of buying “pre-distressed” jeans for triple the price isn’t lost on anyone.

My eyes sweep over my regular wardrobe and I sigh. Where is the gutsy person hiding these days? Why am I not dressed in a delightful dance of contradictions?

Why can I only write about a generation unafraid to express themselves, even if that expression involves neon dungarees and a hat that doubles as a fruit bowl?

Here’s to the fearless fashionistas leading the charge, one quirky ensemble at a time.

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