With an estimated spending power of $360 billion, Generation Z (or Gen Z for short) is influential. They’re also opinionated about the clothes they wear.

They are incredibly comfortable with technology and digital communications since they were raised with the internet and social media. Gen Z is also very savvy—they’re often able to see through marketing ploys and spot fake news.

What sets Generation Z apart from other generations is their online influence. They are always connected to devices, and their social media platforms have given them a megaphone to broadcast their voices to the world.

So, how can you adapt your designs to fit the wants and needs of Gen Z?

Well, you must learn to stay on top of trends. Whether it be political, economic, or just fashion-related, knowing what is trending is basically knowing what Gen Z is talking about.

Who Exactly Falls Under Gen Z?

There are multiple generations who have been affected by the internet. You have the Millennials who were born from 1981-1996. They spent their childhood watching TV, and then as they got older, they spent a lot of time on their phones and social media. Millennials are either already in the workforce or are beginning to make a name for themselves.

Next, you have the Gen Zers, who were born between 1997-2012 and grew up with answers readily available with the touch of a button. Most of them are still in school and starting to figure out what they want to do with their lives. Gen Z is independent and technologically savvy.

Now, Generation Alpha will be the most consumed by technology. They are the generation of people born from 2013 to 2025.

But one thing each of these recent generations have in common is that they are always connected to their screens. Whether it’s their phone, laptop, or tablet, they are always on the go and connected to the internet.

How Do You Know if You’re a True Gen-Zer?

Here are 7 surefire signs:

1. You were born in 1997 or later.

2. You’re the first generation to grow up with social media.

3. You’re comfortable with change and embrace diversity.

4. You’re tech-savvy and always connected.

5. You’re entrepreneurial, and you have a can-do attitude.

6. You’re a global citizen who is aware of social issues.

7. You’re creative and expressive.

What Does Gen Z Even Like?

In order to design for Gen Z, you must know what they like and enjoy. There’s no point in using Millennial trends to sell to Gen Z.

You have to convince this generation your products are worth buying. Here are some topics Gen Zers care about to get you started on your design journey.

Social Media, Duh

There’s no denying that social media is one of the biggest trends to pay attention to with Gen Z.

But why? Well, there are a few reasons.

For starters, Gen Zers use social media to stay connected with friends and family. With platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat, it’s easy to stay in touch with the people they care about—no matter where they are in the world.

Gen Zers also use social media to find out more about pop culture and the causes they care about. It’s important to create brand experiences that interest Gen Z and stand out on social media.

Finally, Gen Z expresses themselves through social media. They share photos and videos of their life with the world daily. On Twitter, they share their thoughts and opinions on the latest news and events.

If you can find a way to implement popular social media trends into your designs and connect with your consumers through online experiences, you are basically guaranteed to succeed with Gen Z.

Climate Change

Climate change has been a hot topic throughout the entire lifespan of Gen Z. It’s not something that’s new to them. They’re also a very pragmatic generation, so they tend to take things as they come and try to find practical solutions.

Creating designs that show support for the fight against climate change is a great way of designing for Gen Z. You can also choose to use inks that are more eco-friendly, such as certain water-based inks.

Video Games and Streaming Services

Whether they’re playing Fortnite or Call of Duty, Gen Zers love their video games. In fact, gaming is one of the most popular activities among this age group. With the rise of esports, gaming is only getting more popular.

Another popular pastime for Gen Zers is streaming content on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime Video. With so much great content available at their fingertips, it’s no wonder that they’re big fans of streaming services.

Creating designs based on popular shows, movies, or even video games could allow you to establish a clear connection between your custom shirts and Gen Zers.

Shopping Online

Last but not least, Generation Z has a shopping addiction. It’s like it is engraved in their DNA.

Gen Zers are big fans of shopping online, especially when it comes to brands that they love. From fashion to beauty to tech, they’re always on the lookout for the best deals and the latest trends.

Having cool designs that they enjoy is good enough, but selling them online is the cherry on top of designing and selling to Gen Z.

Let’s Make a T-Shirt for Gen Z

To stand out to Gen Z, your designs must attract their attention quickly. Make sure to appeal to their interests and create an attractive online presence.

Once you have your design and you’re ready to put it into production, work with us to manufacture it! Here are just a few reasons to choose Scrappy Apparel:

• We are a 100% online solution for custom apparel manufacturing
• We offer free shipping to your doorstep
• We use luxury-level inks and fabrics
• Our Brand Building Process (BBP) ensures the entire ordering process is simple and stress-free for you
• We offer a variety of printing methods and specialty screen printing options
• We have an excellent private labeling program
• Our customer service team is the best in the game!