Cracking Gen X Style Codes
Published 05 April 2023
Gen Xers (born between 1965 and 1980) continue to feel misunderstood in a brandscape still broadly focused on appealing to younger or older consumers. So what makes the current generation of mid-lifers tick? We map out four key themes to help you decipher their style preferences and tap into this underserved yet lucrative demographic.
Semi-Dedicated Followers of Fashion
Pragmatism First
Evolved Personal Style
The Comfort Sweet Spot & Search for Perfection
Most mid-lifers don’t hang up their fashion boots just because they’re over 40. However, even the most trend-conscious Gen Xers tend to be judicious, cherry-picking the looks that work for them, with a focus on flattering fits and age-appropriate styling – all with a clear nod to changing seasonal directions.
Most mid-lifers don’t hang up their fashion boots just because they’re over 40. However, even the most trend-conscious Gen Xers tend to be judicious, cherry-picking the looks that work for them, with a focus on flattering fits and age-appropriate styling – all with a clear nod to changing seasonal directions.
Many Gen Xers have young children to care for (or even elderly parents to consider at the same time), and a high percentage are mindful of maintaining an active lifestyle. This means a practical wardrobe is a priority for most of the demographic: seasonless, school-run-ready, hard-working and casual in emphasis.
For some Gen Xers, mid-life offers the opportunity for in-depth personal style explorations – to adopt a dress code that’s specific to them. Individuality is the aim, to stand out in a fashion world pandering to seasonal trends or practical homogeny. Craft, cultural reference points and obscure finds are all alluring.
As seen on this report’s infographic, a sweet spot exists among Gen Xers’ style choices, and it relates to comfort. Appropriate footwear is a focus, with this demographic firmly in favour of shoes that make physical wellness sense. However, it’s not only about the comfiest sneakers – they also seek out perfect versions of their other favoured items.
Cracking Gen X Style Codes
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