Gen Z Decoded: The power players of modern trends

The following is part two of a five-part Pavone Group series about Gen Z. See part one for an in-depth look at who Gen Z is and what they want. Future articles in the series will take a look at the group’s digital and social behaviors and some insights about how to target Gen Z. 

Digital natives through and through, Gen Z consumers are reshaping industries and redefining how we interact with technology, culture, and even money. Born into an era of rapid technological advancement, they’re savvier, more socially conscious, and hold serious influence over brands and trends. Brands are also taking note. To resonate with Gen Z means staying ahead of emerging tech, cultural shifts, and societal priorities. 

Here’s a look at how this generation is driving some of today’s biggest trends.

AUGMENTED REALITY (AR)

Gen Z’s love for immersive technology is taking AR to the next level. Imagine trying on clothes without stepping into a store, browsing products in a digital space, or leveling up workouts through interactive apps. That’s what AR is bringing to their lives. A sizable 60% of Gen Z uses AR on platforms like Snapchat and Instagram, enhancing everything from shopping to gaming. With 40% engaging in AR gaming and 35% using AR in fitness, brands offering AR experiences are 45% more likely to see this generation’s dollars.  

BLOCKCHAIN

Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology? Gen Z’s all in. Growing up in the digital age, they value privacy and transparency, and 71% see blockchain as a way to improve data security. Platforms like Coinbase and Binance give them access to mainstream coins like Bitcoin and Ethereum, and many dive into niche coins like Dogecoin. They’re also into NFTs (non-fungible tokens), where 20% of NFT owners are aged 18-24, using them in digital art, music, and gaming. 

ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)

For Gen Z, AI isn’t just technology; it’s a partner for creativity, ethics, and learning.​ With 75% using AI-powered applications regularly, they’re influencing the evolution of AI to prioritize personalized, ethical, and impactful uses. They expect AI to serve tailored content, but they also demand ethical transparency, influencing how companies approach AI’s social implications. AI is also a playground for Gen Z’s creativity, with tools enabling art, music, and even personalized educational resources. 

NEWSTALGIA

Gen Z has a thing for “newstalgia,” the art of reviving retro culture with a twist. Nostalgia doesn’t stop at clothes—it’s woven into home decor, entertainment, and even social media content. But it’s not just about copying the past; Gen Z adapts these styles to be more inclusive and body-positive, creating a version of nostalgia that’s more aligned with their values. For brands, this means tapping into retro inspiration without ignoring modern sensibilities​. 

BUY NOW, PAY LATER (BNPL)

Gen Z has embraced Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) as a modern way to afford what they want. Services like Afterpay and Klarna make big-ticket purchases accessible without the burden of credit card interest. With flexible payment options, BNPL aligns perfectly with Gen Z’s digital-first, convenience-driven habits. It’s not just about financial flexibility; it’s about matching their spending power with lifestyle needs. For businesses, offering BNPL is a ticket to attracting this budget-conscious, tech-savvy generation​

PEER-TO-PEER (P2P) PAYMENTS

Cash? Forget it. Gen Z has fully embraced peer-to-peer (P2P) payment apps like Venmo and Cash App, with 53% using these platforms to handle everything from splitting bills to paying for concert tickets. P2P payments are more than just functional; they’re social, with features embedded into platforms like TikTok for an all-in-one experience. It’s quick, it’s convenient, and it’s safe—everything Gen Z wants in a transaction. By integrating social and payment functionalities, these apps are evolving as essential tools for Gen Z’s social and financial needs​

TRANSFORMING CORPORATE CULTURE

As Gen Z enters the workforce, they’re pushing for a healthier, more flexible workplace culture. For them, work-life balance is non-negotiable, and they prioritize jobs that offer benefits like flexible hours, health insurance, and even gym memberships. They’re not interested in the typical after-hours happy hour; instead, they’re looking for meaningful, engaging team-building activities. And while remote work has its appeal, 48% prefer a hybrid model, valuing in-person connections. Gen Z is reshaping what it means to work and play, challenging companies to rethink traditional work environments​

Gen Z is more than just a young consumer base—they’re active participants in shaping today’s trends and tomorrow’s culture. They demand personalization, innovation, and ethics, forcing brands to keep pace with a generation that’s here to lead, not follow. For businesses, staying relevant to Gen Z means keeping a pulse on what matters most to them—and adapting quickly.