2024 Holiday Shopping Trend Lowdown: What Gen Z is *Adding to Cart*
It’s that time of the year again! The air is getting colder, Mariah Carey is defrosting, and your inbox is flooded with subject lines yapping about the “best deals of the year.” But this holiday season, Gen Z’s flipping the script. They’re not just shopping for deals - they’re curating experiences, supporting their favorite brands, and embracing trends that make them feel unique. Let’s dive into what to expect for Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and December holiday shopping in 2024.
Black Friday: The Thrill of the Hunt Goes Digital
Gone are the days of midnight mall stampedes (RIP wild times.) For younger shoppers, Black Friday is all about scoring deals while bedrotting (an activity we, personally, love dearly.) According to recent trends, Gen Z is leaning heavily into online shopping, with their focus on limited-time drops, exclusive deals, and brands that coincide with their values (think ethical, green, and thoughtful.)
Expect a frenzy around Rhode Skin Care’s holiday bundles. Hailey Bieber’s brand has been the “it” skincare line for a hot minute, and any limited-edition holiday kits will sell out faster than you can say “glazed donut skin.” Meanwhile, brands like White Fox will likely attract fashionistas with curated Black Friday sales on trendy fits for holiday parties and New Year’s Eve celebrations.
TikTok Shop will also be a major player, with flash sales hyped by influencers who turn shopping into entertainment. Gen Z loves a good “add to cart” moment, especially when it’s wrapped in a live stream with unboxing surprises and chat hype.
Cyber Monday: Tech Toys and Beyond
Cyber Monday is no longer just for tech nerds—it’s the playground for savvy shoppers who want the best deals without Black Friday chaos. Gen Z’s will be all about grabbing the latest gadgets and accessories to fuel their content creation dreams. Think: ring lights, Bluetooth mics, and foldable tripods for that perfect TikTok setup.
Beyond tech, expect younger shoppers to explore smaller brands on platforms like Etsy. From custom jewelry to one-of-a-kind home decor, this crowd adores handmade, personalized, and artisanal goods. Supporting small creators fits right into their ethos of sustainable and meaningful consumption. Bonus points if the seller shares behind-the-scenes creation processes on social media.
Subscription services are also expected to pop off this year. Gifting a subscription—whether it’s for a wellness app, streaming service, or monthly coffee delivery - is a clever way to give something that keeps on giving. Gen Z loves convenience and self-care, so anything that makes their lives easier or more aesthetically pleasing? Add to cart babe.
December Shopping: Sentimental with a Dash of Luxe
By the time December rolls around, the shopping mood shifts to sentimental mode. Younger shoppers are looking for meaningful gifts that hit the sweet spot between thoughtful and trendy. Think small-batch candles, custom illustrations, or even quirky finds from TikTok-famous creators.
Etsy and TikTok Shop will shine in this department, with shoppers flocking to unique, handmade items that say, “I totally didn’t grab this last minute.” (Even if they did.) Supporting artisans also gives Gen Zs the warm fuzzies (for lack of a less corny term,) knowing their dollars are going to real people rather than faceless corporations.
Still, the allure of luxury remains strong. SKIMS absolute must-haves this season and Sephora’s glittery holiday selections dominate social media unboxings. These brands understand the power of packaging and overall branding because let’s be real, half the fun is posting it on IG Stories.
What’s Driving These Trends?
1. Sustainability and Ethics: Younger shoppers want to know their purchases align with their values. Whether it’s cruelty-free skincare, eco-friendly packaging, or supporting small businesses, they’re here for brands with purpose.
2. Social Media Influence: TikTok and Instagram are the ultimate shopping guides. A viral recommendation or influencer endorsement can skyrocket a product to must-have status.
3. Experience Over Everything: Shopping isn’t just a chore; it’s an event. From TikTok Shop live streams to engaging Etsy seller stories, Gen Z and millennials want to feel connected to what they’re buying.
Let’s Wrap Things Up (And Put A Bow On It)
This holiday season, it’s clear that Gen Z is taking a personalized and purposeful approach to shopping. From stocking up on everyday products with a little added in luxe to snagging artisanal treasures on Etsy, they’re blending trendiness with intentionality.
So, whether you’re gearing up for Black Friday’s adrenaline-pumping deals or a cozy December scroll through TikTok Shop, one thing’s certain: 2024’s holiday shopping season will be as vibrant, eclectic, and creative as the shoppers leading the charge.
P.S. If you’re procrastinating on holiday shopping, don’t stress. There’s always next-day delivery 😉
