Move over, minimalism—there’s a new trend in town, and it’s called “underconsumption core.” Gen Z influencers are taking to social media to show off their eco-friendly routines, from re-wearing clothes to using bags for life. But what some are calling a trend, others are calling common sense, leaving many older generations scratching their heads and chuckling.
The Old Is New Again
Re-wearing clothes until they’re practically threadbare? It’s the cornerstone of “underconsumption core.” But before Gen Z claims it as their own, let’s remember that previous generations have been doing this for years—because it’s just smart, not trendy.
Bags For Life, Or Just A Tuesday?
Using reusable bags as gift bags and grocery haulers might seem groundbreaking to some, but for many, it’s just Tuesday. Gen Z is proudly sharing their “innovation,” but for others, it’s just another day at the market.
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Why Fix It When You Can… Fix It
Repairing broken shoes instead of buying new ones? How novel! Nicole from London thinks she’s onto something, but for many, this is just common sense. After all, a stitch in time saves nine—or at least saves you a trip to the mall.
Trains Over Automobiles
Nicole’s choice to take public transport might seem revolutionary to her TikTok followers, but for many city dwellers, it’s simply the most efficient way to get around. Sure, it’s sustainable, but it’s also just how you get from point A to point B.
Recycled Glass, Recycled Ideas
Storing leftovers in old glass jars? Gen Z might think they’re pioneers, but this practice has been around since the dawn of Tupperware. Maybe the real innovation here is rediscovering what’s always worked.
Grabbing leftovers when dining out? Gen Z might think they’re onto something with their eco-conscious practices, but taking home that extra slice of pizza or half a sandwich has been a standard move for years. It’s not exactly a groundbreaking idea—just good old-fashioned frugality and a way to enjoy your meal twice!
The Not-So-New Normal
Emily Bourke’s underconsumption core includes re-wearing her old Adidas and using her grandmother’s handbag. But let’s be honest—who among us hasn’t hung onto something because it’s still perfectly good? It’s not a trend; it’s just good sense.
Minimalism, Rebranded
Some TikTok commenters have pointed out that underconsumption core is really just rebranded minimalism. Gen Z might be giving it a new name, but the concept has been around for a long time. The more things change, the more they stay the same.
Living Simply, Or Just Living?
Kathryn Kellogg’s sustainable lifestyle includes a six-year-old phone and no trips to the salon. To some, this is underconsumption core; to others, it’s just living within your means. After all, not everyone needs the latest and greatest to be content.
What do you think? Are you into the “underconsumption core?”
So, is underconsumption core a fresh, new movement, or just the latest iteration of living practically? While Gen Z might be packaging it as something novel, many of us know it’s simply a return to basics. And maybe, just maybe, that’s not such a bad thing after all.
