Fast fashion may still line the racks, but Gen Z across the UAE is rewriting the rules, one borrowed outfit at a time. The new wave of style-savvy youth is swapping out overconsumption for smarter, more sustainable fashion choices Vivaan Shenoy walks you through how Gen Z think rental wardrobes, curated thrifting, and upcycled pieces make a statement.
On TikTok and Instagram, thrift hauls, closet edits, and “restyling the same piece five ways” challenges are trending, proving that creativity, not consumerism, is the new fashion flex. Gen Z isn’t just shopping differently; they’re reshaping what it means to be stylish.
Rental platforms like HURR, By Rotation, and UAE-based Designer-24 are gaining momentum, offering everything from luxe bags to eveningwear, perfect for event dressing without the long-term commitment. On the resale front, The Luxury Closet and The RealReal are becoming Gen Z’s go-to spots for designer deals with a conscience.
Sustainability, individuality, and access now matter more than owning the latest drop. For Gen Z in the UAE, fashion isn’t just about fast, it’s about finding new ways to wear, repeat, and reimagine.