Welcome to the Nothing To Wear Edit, where we break down the topic we spoke about on the podcast each week. This week Leigh Campbell was joined by Mamamia's Liv James again to talk about Gen Z versus Millennial style. So we've handed the reins to Liv this week to walk you through the trending pieces she recommends for women of any age.
Listen to the episode below.
This is an apology to everyone over 30. Right now, Gen Z is obsessed with trends you thought you'd buried. Ballet flats, double denim, peplum, side parts. Some are even trying to bring skinny jeans back. (I'm choosing peace by ignoring them.)
The result? A lot of polarising outfits, and my mum's face twitching like she's reliving a deeply traumatic memory when I wear any of them.
These are the trends that make most of the Millennials and Gen Xers in my life scream. And I get it. We don't have the memories you do from wearing them the first time around. So for us, they're not haunted. They're fun.
Watch: The fashion trends of 2025 (these definitely won't haunt Gen-Z in the future). Post continues below.
I know this conversation will hit differently when my future tween daughter asks for a pair of galaxy-printed tights and I feel a sudden urge to follow in Katy Perry's footsteps and leave the planet.
But for now, Gen Z is discovering what older generations are still recovering from. So here's my olive branch: A list of pieces I wear on repeat that get stopped-in-the-street levels of praise. From teenagers, baristas, and yes, my friend's mum who immediately asked where to buy them.
These are the staples Gen Z actually wears. Not just what's trending for three weeks. They're cool without being complicated, comfortable without being sloppy, and they genuinely look good on everyone. Whether you're 25 or 65, they're worth adding to cart.
And no, they won't remind you of your 15th birthday.
Adidas Originals Samba OG Women's in Maroon/Cream White/Gold Metallic, $180.
Sneakers are a lifestyle. You know that, I know that, and so does my grandma in her crisp white Sketchers. And if we're going to live in them, they better have personality.
The maroon Adidas Sambas are it. They're colourful without being polarising, and as of today, I've decided maroon is officially a neutral. I know at least seven people who own this exact pair in the Mamamia office, all different ages. They're not too much, not too little. Goldilocks would love them.
Image: supplied.
Uniqlo AIRism Cotton T-Shirt, $19.90.
A good basic is the backbone of any wardrobe. This one is polished enough for work and relaxed enough for weekends. The fabric is silky-soft and breathable, with a boxy fit that doesn't cling in weird places or crease. It ticks all the boxes for that model-off-duty, white-shirt-blue-jeans kind of look.
It's also made from next-gen fabric. If you run hot like I do, AIRism is basically magic. It's a Uniqlo-developed material designed to keep you cool, dry and comfortable in gross, humid weather or just regular weather. Even science can be fashionable.
Socks with Personality.
Image: supplied.
Please let go of your no-show socks. I plan outfits around mine and you should too. They add a tiny pop of fun that makes a big difference. Whether they're peeking out from loafers or worn loud and proud with sneakers, fun socks are a low-effort way to play with style.
They also make it look like you've tried far harder than you have. Got a red cardigan and matching red socks? You, my friend, are officially excelling in ways most people could only dream of.
Cheetah Print Dresses.
Animal print has officially gone from Scary Spice to staple. Much like the colour maroon, leopard is the new neutral. It adds energy to any look without trying too hard. I think the key is choosing a slightly darker colourway.
Both myself and another Mamamia employee (who's not Gen Z, by the way) own the same leopard print AllSaints dress. We haven't worn it on the same day yet, but I'm waiting. It's not available anymore but I've found this one just like it.
It's flattering, punchy, and works for almost any occasion. Add boots and a leather jacket, or sandals and a cardigan. It will always pop.
Matching Sets.
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Co-ords are the ultimate lazy-girl hack. You look instantly styled with zero brainpower required. Whether it's linen, knit or denim, a good set creates a polished silhouette that flatters without the fuss.
My favourite brand for matching sets is Araminta James. Their elevated sweatsuits feel like pyjamas but look like you've got your life together. They're an Aussie brand too, which I love. If I could own every set they've ever made, I would. Unfortunately, my bank account hasn't caught up with my heart. I love this Araminta James San Sebastian Shirt Set, $129.
Seed Heritage Core Wide Leg Pocket Jean, $129.
These are my most complimented pair of jeans. I walked into my best friend's childhood home and her mum bought them before I'd even walked out.
They're the perfect fit. They hug the bum nicely without clinging to the thighs or anywhere else you don't want them to. They elongate the leg, flatter the waist and strike that perfect balance between relaxed and refined. Bonus points for the patch pockets.
They're made from premium stretch denim, which means you can eat and not want to cry. They have a slightly cropped length that gives a subtle retro feel. They come in four colours, and if you're anything like me, you'll want all of them.
A Classic Trench Coat.
This one is a no-brainer. A trench makes any outfit feel elevated. You could be in pyjamas or literally nothing and still look like you've got somewhere important to be.
It's timeless, flattering and genuinely practical. Belt it, layer it or throw it on over jeans. It always works.
I found a vintage Burberry trench in Japan for a price that was good but still too shameful to say out loud. I whisper that it will be passed down through generations just to feel better. Hopefully it pairs well with my future daughter's galaxy leggings.
One that isn't gatekept by a 10-hour flight is the Witchery Classic Trench Coat, $399. I wish I never saw it, because now I want it.
Chunky Gold Earrings.
Gold hoops are the quickest way I feel pulled together, especially on rushed mornings. No makeup? No problem. The earrings do the heavy lifting.
I learnt this from my mum. An earring, a soft red lip, and a bit of blush (usually from the same lip product) can add a few hours of sleep back into your face. I love these Lovisa Waterproof Gold Plated Stainless Steel Full Loop Hoops, $27.99.
These aren't young-person pieces. They're good pieces. They transcend trends, spark compliments from strangers of all ages, and best of all, they don't come with emotional baggage from your 2009 Facebook photo albums.
Feature: Supplied.
