Twenty-five items on TikTok that, according to the author's perspective, are "flawless flawless flawless"
In the realm of shopping, Canadian Gen Z consumers are making a splash with their distinctive preferences. This generation is all about thrift and pre-owned fashion, personalized and fast shopping experiences, and tech-enabled shopping that aligns with their values of affordability, individuality, and sustainability.
The thrift culture is thriving, with about 77% of Canadians, led by Gen Z, buying pre-owned items in the past year. This trend is mainstream, driven by the appeal of unique vintage fashion, sustainability, and the thrill of the hunt. Facebook Marketplace, traditional thrift stores, and garage sales are popular platforms where Gen Z can find hidden gems like vintage clothing, rarely worn designer pieces, books, and vinyl records. Thrifting is cool because it offers a unique style, sustainability, and provides great content for social media platforms like TikTok.
Personalized shopping experiences are also high on Gen Z's list. They value brands that offer customized, fast, and relevant product recommendations. Retailers that use AI and data smartly to tailor shopping experiences and product customization options are more attractive to this generation. Speed and relevance in digital shopping are crucial to maintain their attention.
Flexible payment options are also a priority for Gen Z consumers. Buy Now Pay Later and subscription models are increasingly sought after, reflecting their preference for cash-conscious and convenience-focused buying practices.
Sustainability and health awareness are significant factors in Gen Z's shopping decisions. They are drawn to products, including food choices, that promote health, sustainability, and ethics. This includes an interest in vegan/vegetarian diets and environmentally conscious brands, which also extends to lifestyle and fashion purchases.
Local and independent retailers also hold a special place in Gen Z's hearts. Although major retailers and AI-enhanced stores are key players in Canadian retail, Gen Z also supports small businesses and independent shops, especially those that align with their values on uniqueness, sustainability, and affordability.
Some of the standout shopping recommendations for Gen Z in Canada include a gentle CeraVe facial cleanser for hydration and blemish control, a set of silicone face mask spatulas for efficient product application, and a cooling cup that turns drinks into slushies. For fashion enthusiasts, there's a vibrating face scraper for spa-like skin, acrylic record shelves to display albums like works of art, and a vintage-inspired scrapbooking kit for a relaxing activity.
In the world of tech, Revlon's one-step hair dryer helps achieve voluminous '90s-style hair with one hand, while a Fujifilm disposable camera allows for living in the moment without worrying about selfie angles, resulting in an IRL photo dump. For gaming aficionados, there's an Unsolved Case Files game for true crime enthusiasts, and Incohearent, a game that challenges players to decipher gibberish on cards, suitable for larger groups and some NSFW cards for adult get-togethers.
In the realm of beauty, a tub of E.l.f putty primer offers a velvety texture and grip for makeup, infused with moisturizing squalane for hydration and a dewy finish. For lipstick lovers, there's Nyx's matte lipstick and gloss dual-ended tube for long-lasting colour, Clinique's Black Honey lipstick for a subtle berry hue with buildable colour, and Maybelline's Sky High mascara for extended lashes without clumping or weighing them down.
For those seeking a literary escape, People We Meet on Vacation is a romantic comedy about two friends taking annual trips, while We're Not Really Strangers encourages deep, honest conversation. Lastly, a roll of LED strip lights fills a room with a multicolor glow at the touch of a button, with a remote for custom color options, and a roll of rainbow window film provides privacy from nosy neighbors and creates a kaleidoscope effect when the sun hits the glass.
In summary, Canadian Gen Z consumers gravitate toward thrift and pre-owned shopping for fashion and lifestyle, coupled with personalized, tech-savvy, and flexible retail experiences. Coolness in their culture comes from owning unique, sustainable products while engaging in smart, budget-conscious shopping facilitated by modern digital tools.
- Gen Z consumers in Canada are exploring the home-and-garden section, with an increasing interest in energy-efficient LED strip lights and rainbow window films, aligning with their preference for sustainability and unique aesthetics.
- In their food-and-drink choices, Gen Z prioritizes health, sustainability, and ethical practices, as evidenced by their time and fondness for vegan/vegetarian diets and environmentally conscious brands.
- Entertainments that resonate with Gen Z include tech-driven experiences such as the Unsolved Case Files game, Incohearent, and Revlon's one-step hair dryer, emphasizing their love for living in the moment, unique experiences, and tech-enabled convenience.
