As part of our ongoing exploration of Gen Z values and identity, we asked 1,000 Gen Z Australians to describe what the person is wearing when they imagine a moment where they see someone on the street, in a shop, or scrolling the socials, and think, “They dress just like me.”

In analysing these comments, we took a gender neutral approach. That is, we grouped all responses together to build a collective picture of how Gen Z expresses identity through fashion, regardless of gender identity. In a follow up article, we will explore the interesting differences that emerged between young men and young women.

Our simple prompt generated a wide range of detailed and interesting responses. While some respondents described everyday staples such as jeans, hoodies, sneakers and T-shirts, others offered highly specific fashion choices, complete with brand references, jewellery styles and even accessories like drinks or bags. The question helped us understand how Gen Z communicates comfort, confidence and individuality through clothing.

A Preference for Comfort

Across the dataset, comfort and casual style were dominant themes. Casual clothes were frequently mentioned, but not in a way that suggested a lack of care. Rather, the term “casual” reflected a deliberate and personalised aesthetic. Respondents described clothing that feels good to wear while still expressing who they are.

This approach echoes the laid back styling of YouTuber and fashion muse Emma Chamberlain, whose effortless mix of thrifted basics, statement sneakers and minimalist accessories has made her a relatable icon for many Gen Z followers. Like Chamberlain, respondents do not necessarily want to stand out but they want to be recognised for authenticity.

“[They are wearing] Clothes that don’t really stand out but show my personality.”

“Casual wear with nice shoes and good watch.”

Baggy Jeans and Tight Tops: A Style Signature

One of the most consistent style patterns described was the combination of baggy or wide leg bottoms with more fitted tops. This silhouette came through repeatedly, often paired with specific footwear or accessories.

While the specific items varied, this contrast between loose and fitted clothing was common across respondents. Analysed without reference to gender, it reflects a broader trend among Gen Z to play with volume and proportion as part of everyday fashion.

“Basketball shorts, loose fit pants, loose box fit T-shirt, puffer, Air Forces.”

“Light blue jeans with an oversized T-shirt tucked out on one side with either white shoes or Birkins.”

“Wide leg jeans, a tight crop top, cardigan and sneakers. Simple but clean.”

This contrast reflects the streetwear influence found in both everyday wear and pop culture. The look is strongly associated with Billie Eilish, especially in her early public appearances. Eilish’s oversized silhouettes became her signature style and a visual expression of personal boundaries, comfort and identity.

Deliberate and Detailed Expression

Some respondents described their look in meticulous detail, suggesting that fashion is not only a reflection of personal style, but also of planning, creativity and mood.

These examples reflect how fashion can signal social alignment, self awareness and aesthetic choice. The level of specificity in these comments also shows how meaningful “style” can be in everyday life.

“Coordinated that they thought out clearly. They would probably be wearing boots, a skirt and black-stockings with a white collar undershirt and a small lacy overshirt or faux corset. They would definitely be wearing jewellery layering necklaces, wearing rings, maybe a silver bracelet. Sunglasses depending on the weather, and probably have a cute bag that pairs with the outfit on one arm, and a bubble tea in the other hand.”

“It depends what my mood is and where I’m going, but I’d usually say a pair of baggy dark wash jeans, specifically Motel Rocks, and some sort of going out top. I like ones that aren’t too basic and kinda different, maybe floral. Some dainty gold jewellery. One hundred percent pearls are involved, otherwise I wouldn’t be wearing the jewellery. Either Doc Martens or Adidas Spezials in a funky colour. Hair either blown out or in a slick back bun.”

This mood-based, expressive fashion aligns with trendsetters like Zendaya, known for her ability to shift seamlessly between comfort and couture, and Harry Styles, who mixes tailored pieces with casual elements and confidently blends traditionally masculine and feminine styles. These celebrity styles mirror the layered, expressive outfits described by Gen Z in this study. They signal taste, individuality and context.

Evolving Fashion Vocabulary

Respondents introduced a range of fashion terms that reflect how Gen Z communicates visually. Items like baby T-shirts, flare pants, cargo pants, crossbody bags, Chelsea boots, no show socks, crop tops and Birkins (referring to Birkenstocks) appeared frequently.

This vocabulary points to a generation that is highly engaged with global fashion culture, but that also builds and reshapes style language through platforms like TikTok and Instagram. These references cut across gender and reflect a shared fluency in trends, labels and aesthetics.

Final Reflections

By interpreting these comments as a collective snapshot we can see how Gen Z uses fashion as a unifying, expressive force. From jeans and sneakers to pearls and faux corsets, this generation uses clothing to connect, to stand apart, and to stay comfortable in who they are.

When a young person says, “They dress like me,” it is rarely about matching items piece-for-piece. It is about shared energy, mutual understanding and a common way of moving through the world.

In our upcoming article, we will explore how fashion preferences differ between young men and women. But for now, this gender-neutral lens offers a compelling overview of Gen Z style: confident, creative, balanced and deeply personal.