Popular Generation Z Clothing Brands for 2020

Popular Generation Z Clothing Brands for 2020

Who is Gen Z?

Generation Z, also known as Gen Z, is made up of tween through young adults (age 23). Gen Z kids are those born between 1995 and 2012. As of October 2018, these are the most Popular Generation Z Clothing Brands among teens and young adults.

Most Popular Clothing Brands of Generation Z

  • Adidas
  • Nike
  • Patagonia
  • Brandy Melville
  • Champion
  • Vans
  • Tommy Hilfiger
  • Calvin Klein
  • Gucci
  • Supreme
  • Pink
  • Lululemon

How Gen Z Wears Clothes

Gen Z values comfort and function, so it stands to reason that most of the brands listed are casual streetwear and athleisure. They love to put together outfits that seem less “put together.” They enjoy making something their own, combining leggings or nice joggers with a denim jacket; intentionally oversized clothing is preferred.

While a lot of key brands are important o Gen Z, they are less label-conscious. Preferring to wear what feels right for them, they are more likely to go with ‘unique’ and ironic than to be a billboard for a brand label.

READ: How Tweens Will Be Dressing in the next year

What Clothes Generation Z Likes Most

Gen Z prefers limited edition pieces, collaborations, and one-of-a-kind items. This is perhaps the only place where they prefer less inclusivity. Gen Z is into exclusivity — when there are fewer items available, for a short period of time. Gen Z wants to look unique. They love different and weird. For them, the quirky attitude is a statement of confidence.

Gen Z’s mantra is “Come as you are.”

Generation Z believes in owning your individuality. They are attracted to confident, feel-good, body-positive images. This inclusivity builds trust from their favorite brands.

Popular Brands of Generation Z, and Why

Brandy Melville

Brandy Melville was created by Italian father and son duo Silvio Marsan and Stefan about 20 years ago in Italy. The company, which was first introduced in the USA about 5 years ago, appeals to the tween and teen audience and is quickly on the rise to outperform American Eagle as far as popular clothing in the teen market.

How did this obscure boutique brand from Italy suddenly come out of nowhere and dominate here in the US? The company relies heavily on its social media marketing and e-commerce site. Brandy Melville is essentially a brand based on a fictional character (their target demographic persona as mentioned in the previous chapter) who embodies the overall vibe and body of a “Brandy Girl.” This brand image, along with the fact that all of their clothes are one-size-fits-all. Girls love Brandy because of the exclusivity of having a clothing brand that feels all their own, the inclusivity of being a part of brand culture, and a positive identity associated with being “a Brandy girl.”

Forever21

Forever 21 has been on top for a long time in the juniors market and even in the kids wear market. The clothes are on point, the prices are right and the placement – it’s easy to access at any mall or online. Forever21 is another staunch follower of the 4 P’s, and where they lack in Packaging, they make up for in Product and Pricing. Although the online selection for girls and tweens seem a bit limited, there is not a girl or teen I’ve met who doesn’t immediately say “Forever21” when asked what her favorite store is.

Five Below

This retailer is winning big time in the Gen Z market for its wide selection of fun and cost-effective shopping. With everything being $5 or less, a teen can shop for everything for her bedroom, school or just for fun and still have money left over. If you haven’t had a chance to visit a Five Below in your area, I urge you to stop in and see what the glitter, squishy, collectible toys, and candy commotion is all about.

Urban Outfitters

UO is also another heavy hitter in the Gen Z marketplace and a hub for trends. From vintage tees to high waist shorts and festival shawls, Urban Outfitters has become a #1 destination for Gen Z. Their pricing has also decreased dramatically over recent years to reflect the demands.

American Eagle

AE has had the #1 selling jeans in the USA for a long time. AE jeans and clothing are affordable, on-trend with nice fits and a good range of sizes. Taking cues from Brandy Melville style, they launched their latest collection, Don’t Ask Why.

Nike

Nike reigns top on the list of fashion loves by so many Gen Z-ers worldwide because it’s athleisure style is on point. They have managed to maintain its position as the world’s most valuable apparel brand even in 2018. In December, it was reported that Nike struggled in the North American market amidst growing competition from brands such as Adidas. But never fear, Gen Z still loves this classic giant.