Move Aside, Suede—6 Fresh-Feeling Fall Trends Gen Z Is Wearing First This Season

Gen Z Says is a bimonthly column chronicling the latest trends in the fashion-and-beauty space through the lens of Who What Wear’s own Gen Z editors. Expect a download on the upcoming class of tastemakers, emerging designers, and shopping and style choices straight from the generation setting the trends.

Every time fall rolls around, I tell myself I’m going to keep it simple. Maybe I’ll invest in a good coat, grab a pair of boots, and call it a day. Then I open Instagram or scroll on TikTok for five seconds and boom—I’m spiraling into a rabbit hole of Gen Z trend reports, vintage inspo boards, and must-have pieces that somehow feel brand-new and like something my mom wore in 1994. This fall is no exception.

Gen Z’s grip on fashion right now is strong. Their power move? Looking back to move forward, from ’50s-style polka-dot skirts that feel straight out of a diner scene to low-rise jeans (yes, those low-rise jeans Addison Rae just wore). I’m seeing a full-on remix of decades past—with a twist, of course. It’s not just about wearing retro pieces. It’s about styling them in ways that feel cool, effortless, and totally current.

From beloved fall staples like pony hair to wild cards like lace-trim dresses worn over jeans, Gen Z’s fall fashion vibe is anything but boring. Ahead, scroll and shop the trends they’re already into before everyone else catches on.

Belly Up

Low‑rise jeans are back, but this time, they came with upgrades. Think improved comfort, a slightly wider fit, and no rhinestones on the back pockets. Pair them with cropped knits, oversize trench coats, and chunky boots. It’s all about that early 2000s energy with an effortlessly cool spin. Not convinced yet? Everyone’s favorite Gen Z actress, Lola Tung, was just spotted wearing this trend in New York.

H&M Low Rise Flared Leg Jeans

H&M Baggy Wide Low Jeans

Reformation Cary Low Rise Slouchy Wide Leg Jeans

Agolde Low Rise Loose Jeans

Moo-d Swing

Move over, leopard print. Cow print isn’t just for graphic tees anymore. It’s all over calf‑hair accessories like loafers, pumps, and mini bags. The trend is bold, playful, and a little tongue‑in‑cheek, and Gen Z is loving the wink of nostalgia and the unexpected pop it brings to an outfit.

Madewell The Mylie Shoulder Bag

Schutz Courtney Flats

Madewell Cowhide Leather Western Belt

Prada Galleria Medium Printed Leather Bag

Delicates and Denim

While Gen Z has always loved layering dresses over pants, a subtle, romantic trend has emerged in the last few weeks: pairing lingerie-style lace-trim slip dresses with jeans. It’s slowly starting to gain speed on my feed, and I wouldn’t be shocked if this trend is everywhere come October 1.

Zara Asymmetric Lace Dress

Kiki De Montparnasse Giselle Mini Slip

J.Crew Gwen Lace-Trim Slip Skirt in Luster Charmeuse

ZW Collection Asymmetric Lace Dress

Checking In

Plaid and checks will continue to dominate this fall with heritage vibes and endless versatility without feeling like you’re a 2000s-era hipster. Layer a cozy flannel shirt over a slip dress, or pair a pleated plaid miniskirt with chunky boots for cool schoolgirl energy à la Olivia Rodrigo.

Proenza Schouler Bronwen Checked Twill Shirt

Massimo Dutti Long Flared Check Skirt

H&M Glittery Textured Jersey Cardigan

Massimo Dutti Oversized Checked Shirt With Stand Collar

Inside the Box

Forget dainty handbags—Gen Z is reaching for sculptural, boxy bag silhouettes. Clean lines, architectural forms, and that vibe of serious chic make them work with everything, whether you’re dressing down in baggy denim or dressed up for fall fun. The more they look like they were borrowed from your grandma’s closet, the better.

Verafied Gold Noir Éclair Bag

Freja Jane Bag in Espresso

The Row Cecily Mini Tote Bag in Cotton Canvas

Khaite Lori Leather Shoulder Bag

Spot-On

Big, bold polka dots made a splash all summer, and now, flirty slip skirts are the clear front‑runner as we head into fall. They bring just enough vintage charm and romantic flair to be styled with oversize sweaters and leather jackets for an easy, effortless look.

Polo Ralph Lauren Polka Dot Satin Skirt

Mango Long Polka-Dot Skirt

Zw Collection Polka Dot Midi Skirt

Reformation Layla Skirt