Top trends amongst millennials

The millennial generation have been shaped by technology, global warming and increasingly open attitudes. So what are the main trends to be born from these defining factors?

Health and fitness

When it comes to keeping fit, the millennial generation are on the ball. With endless tracking apps such as Map My Run and increasingly popular gadgets like Fitbits, it’s clear that this is a more health-conscious demographic. Not only can we monitor our exercise and our heart rate, but we can also count calories more easily than ever before, making staying healthy a hobby rather than a hardship.

Statistics show that smoking has a more negative stigma amongst this agegroup and e-cigarattes have become fashionable, with the vaping trend booming in London, the home of the hipster. On top of this, there has been a clear spike in vegetarianism and veganism, further illustrated by the rise of Veganuary and the huge surge in dairy and meat alternatives.

Technology and games

The use of technology doesn’t only apply to fitness and health, it regards any activity – business and leisure alike. We all know there’s an app for everything, and new activities exist just because there’s an app for them. Facebook, Instagram and Twitter form the basis for the lives of millennials. The side effects are huge and it will take years to understand them fully, but some are very practical and immediate: Amazon caused the closure of thousands of businesses – as opposed to the eBay effect which created opportunities to make money – and YouTube – which hosts free videos on anything, from camera reviews to unboxing of products and even tips for free slots machines online – eclipsed TV channels and radio stations.

Environment

Naturally, the vegan revolution is tied into another millennial trend: the environment. This eco-friendly generation have been spurred on by climate change to think more deeply about their lifestyle and the ethical repercussions of their consumption. The carbon footprint is a constant topic of conversation, and everyday changes such as the use of cardboard straws in bars and pubs over single-use plastics are evidence that their voices are being heard. With meat production being directing linked with increased emissions, many people have also chosen to become flexitarian, reducing their intake in a national dietary upheaval. Indeed, millennials are more interested in where their food is sourced.

Relationships

For the previous generation, there was far more pressure on hitting certain milestones by certain ages. Staying in a relationship without getting married was often frowned upon, and staying single wasn’t the celebrated symbol of independence that it is becoming today. Now, increasing amounts of young people are putting off the big wedding (who can blame them, when you see the bill) or even sidelining it all together. Many millennials are unattached into their 30s, preferring to prioritise their professional aspirations, and lots of couples opt to start a family before getting hitched. Of course, there are still legal reasons why marriage is beneficial, but times are changing and perhaps the age-old, bank-breaking tradition will become less appealing in the years to come.

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