Why Is Gen Z Obsessing Over The 'Recession Core' Trend?

Ever spent hours analysing the shopping cart before eventually removing almost everything? Congratulations, you are officially a part of the 'Recession Core' trend. Matcha looks aesthetic—until you look at the price of this trendy Japanese green powder. Labubus may dominate social media, but the exorbitant amount is enough to buy a good 100-rupee keychain for our bags. 

During the pre-COVID era, haul videos dominated social media. People would often enjoy watching luxury travels, 'branded' clothes hauls, luxury wedding celebrations, and the infamous 10-step skincare and makeup routine. However, the recession period changed everything!

What luxury travels? People are now eyeing the 'budget-friendly' trips. Hostels are now gaining popularity compared to hotels, and people are loving the idea of backpacking over a luxe trip. Gone are the eras of big fat Indian weddings; couples nowadays are opting for intimate celebrations with minimal expense. The money saved is wisely invested in a joint property, SIPs, or even used for an extended honeymoon!

The noticeable shift, however, came in the fashion and beauty industry. Look at the trends Gen Z is ardently following. Gen Z is obsessed with the idea of wearing a comfortable oversized hoodie and loose pants. Party dress, who? The idea of a house party and a comfortable piece of clothing is enough to turn the party mood on. 

The Hemline Theory

Ever heard of the Hemline Theory? The Hemline Theory suggests that women's skirt lengths tend to rise in economic booms and fall during downturns. Proposed by economist George Taylor in the 1920s, it reflects how fashion may mirror consumer confidence. Though debated, it's a symbolic intersection of economics and style, not a precise predictive tool.

In 2025, both long and short-length skirts are in trend. Short-length skirts are for the freer, the impulsive, yet bolder look, and long-length skirts express conservative realism. While it may not have a greater significance in today's times, clothing is now more than just getting dressed. It is about making conscious decisions over spending impulses. A notable aspect of this statement is the growing preference for wearing thrifted clothes over branded ones.

Repeating clothes over and over again, choosing comfort over convention, describes the shift where 'needs' are being prioritised over 'wants'.

Rebranding the Beauty Industry

The beauty industry has experienced a drastic change in consumer demand in recent years, and minimalism is rightfully dominating the markets! People are now tending towards the 'No-Makeup' Look over the 'Full Glam Look.' Even modern-day brides prefer wearing less makeup on their special day. Beyond the superficial world, people now prefer proudly donning their flaws. Why hide it when you can flaunt it?

The beauty market has experienced the rise of tinted moisturiser, nude-shaded lip gloss, balmy textures, and a cream blush to rock the look. Gone are the days when spending money to buy makeup products for a single use was normalised. People are now rightfully loving buying makeup for practical use, and it is totally worth it!

The Rise of Soft Clubbing 

Gen-Z is not only known for their work-life balance, but they're also gaining recognition for prioritising a healthy lifestyle. Which sometimes makes us wonder—why are they always gushing over That Girl?

Who is That Girl, anyway? Someone who makes drinking a cup of matcha and going to Pilates look cool. A girl who has it all: healthy skin, an ideal figure, a balanced lifestyle, and productive hobbies. Amid the That Girl trend, Gen Z has started taking their lifestyle more seriously. From avoiding alcohol to cancelling all-night clubbing plans, they're doing it all!

But does that make them boring? Not really!

Gen Z is finding themselves partying during golden hour, sipping on espresso shots. Slowly but surely, soft clubbing is making its way into the party circuit.

Lately, India has been witnessing a surge in new café openings. Whether it’s serving a curated coffee menu or blending music to match the vibe, café and restaurant owners are doing it all. Instead of waking up with a terrible hangover, people are turning into coffee connoisseurs and enjoying quality time with friends.

This Recession Core feels specific and relatable at the same time. This is honestly the only trend we can keep up with. We are prioritising our needs over our wants, spending money wisely, living a healthy lifestyle, and prioritising our comfort. 

Views expressed are the author's own