Whether it be the music of the 80s, fashion of the 90s, or movies of the 2000s – each decade seems to hold a special place in everyone’s heart for their iconic moments that defined generations of pop culture for years to come. Now that we are halfway through the decade, reminiscing on these nostalgic moments has made me wonder what will make people look back on the 2020s and say, ‘that is sooo 20s!’
Baggy Jeans and Jorts
Looking back at the skinny jeans movement of the 2010s can feel like torture, so its no wonder why baggy jeans and jorts have made such a comeback in recent years. From bootcut to wide-leg to bell bottoms and straight leg – everyone wants a staple baggy pant in their closet.
The loose fit has played a major role in current trends as fashion has become more about functionality and sustainability. The shift in popularity towards thrifting especially has inspired the culture to appreciate a pant that may not fit perfectly, but at least it’s better than fast fashion. This generation recognizes the impact that consumerism has on the environment, so when the current trends come back in 20 years, hopefully a stronger and more wide-reaching appreciation of environmental sustainability comes with it, as well.
Pop is So Back
Whether you’re ‘bumpin’ that’ to brat or ‘just another girl on the subway’, the female artists of the 2020s have officially confirmed that pop music is back. Charli XCX, Sabrina Carpenter, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Tate McRae, Chappell Roan, and the list goes on and on and on.
In 2025, pop albums and singles topped the charts with The Life of A Showgirl by Taylor Swift in October, So Close to What by Tate McRae, and Sabrina Carpenter’s A Man’s Best Friend in August. Similarly, singles “The Giver” and “The Subway” by Chappell Roan took the world by storm after fans fell in love with her yearning and earnest lyricism.
Girl group, KATSEYE, also earned the undying love of their fans and global recognition with popular songs such as “Gnarly”, “M.I.A.”, “Gabriela”, and the highly anticipated release of “Internet Girl”. Their dynamic energy, talent, and unique music has garnered them the title of an ‘international girl group’ as their members have come from all across the world to be a part of this K-Pop inspired group.
Pop is not one dimensional, but a unique blend of styles and genres which has spoken to audiences in recent years. When the next generation looks back on the 20s, it is without a doubt that they will already know these names for their ultimate star power.
Athleisure into Fashion
As an avid believer in the theory that every fashion trend will come back around in twenty-years time, I will die on the hill that one-piece workout sets are the new Juicy Couture tracksuits. Functional? In theory, yes! But unless you’ve ever had to use the restroom mid-workout in a skintight, workout romper, I don’t think you understand pain.
Just like the functionality of jorts, the freedom to move and wear your favorite pieces throughout all aspects of your day is a staple of this generation. The ability to go from a workout to the grocery store to an elevated lunch or afternoon hangout in one outfit is a fashion trend that I can get behind.
Social Media Slang
Whether you love to doomscroll or not, social media slang and drama is just a part of our daily vocabulary and culture. Our language is now shared through posts and comments, so when something becomes popular, we all know about it.
Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic where everyone was condemned to communication through the internet, our interests in the internet are incomparable to ten years ago. Brainrot and obsession with content houses or collab groups is our generation’s version of Vine memes and MySpace idols, so ten years from now, another teenager may ask you if you followed peak Hype House. Albeit cringey, it is hilarious to think about all of the slang that is so common today that will become dated in the future.
Clean Girl Aesthetic
2025 may have been the year of the ‘clean girl aesthetic’, but this popular trend isn’t just about soft glam and dewy, glowing skin. The aesthetic is oftentimes associated with an entire lifestyle rooted in organization and mental balance as influencers have created entire brands of being ‘clean girls’.
Think of that girl you know who is always wearing neutrals and soft colors, loves a tote bag or a big purse, and lives on pilates and matcha – chances are that she is a connoisseur and expert in the clean girl aesthetic. I anticipate that this will be an iconic staple of the 20s, and when people dress up for their themed parties, a yoga mat and Stanley cup will be brought with them.
Maximalism
From film and television to music and fashion, the 20s have been all about maximalism. The definition of maximalism is an aesthetic of excess that explores vibrancy, lushness, and creativity. Many celebrities and influencers have leaned into the unique style of maximalism that Gen Z has claimed; one of the most famous examples of fashionable maximalism being KATSEYE who is known for their eccentric and thoughtful style and music.
While maximalism is an expression of self, it can often be misconstrued and misused into over consumerism. In an age of mounting microtrends and fast fashion, it is easy to fall into step with others on the internet who want to stay on top of every trend. Sonny’s Angels, Labubu’s, and Jellycats are just a few examples of this generation’s versions of Beanie Babies.
There has been a movement towards healthy and sustainable consumerism recently that promotes maximalism of beautiful thrifted items. The truth is that there are pieces for every aesthetic and look on the shelves of second-hand stores waiting to be snatched because being environmentally friendly is cool!
Television and Movies
Gen Z and the 2020s will forever be known for being unique and screen addicted, so the media and entertainment that reflects that personality will stand out one day as a nostalgic look back into life in the 20s. It is obvious that popular, groundbreaking films such as Oppenheimer, Barbie, Superman, and Sinners will always be timeless and well-regarded, but it is the more relevant films to this decade’s culture that will give us a nostalgic feel one day.
Titles such as Bottoms, Bodies Bodies Bodies, Prom Dates, and Do Revenge, are a few of my favorite picks that have stood head and shoulders above the rest. These are comedies that we will be able to look back on one day and giggle about our lives as we reflect back on the 20s.
The 20s have been legendary and roaring for all the pop culture moments that I am lucky to remember. Now that we are halfway through the decade, it is unbelievable to think that it will be over one day, but until my predictions inevitably come true, I hope that we all get to appreciate this time that we have and enjoy these moments that make it so special.