How Gen Z Is Capturing Childhood Through Fashion

Lately, I've been noticing something slightly ridiculous about the way I get dressed: I keep reaching for things that make me feel like a kid again.

Maybe it's the ballet flats. Maybe it's the frilly socks. Maybe it's the little dresses that make me look like I should be running through a garden with a basket instead of answering emails. Whatever it is, I've clearly decided that growing up doesn't mean I have to dress like I've grown up.

Ballet flats are probably the biggest culprit. I remember them feeling so grown-up when I was younger, which is funny because now they make me feel completely the opposite. There's something about slipping on a tiny pair of flats with baggy jeans that instantly makes an outfit feel sweeter. Pair them with a mini skirt, and suddenly I'm getting major childhood-dress-up energy.

And I'm not mad about it

Images via @americanthreads

Then there's the sock situation. Give me a pair of frilly socks with bulky sneakers or a Mary Jane and I'm sold. I love that tiny flash of lace underneath a shoe that would otherwise feel completely grown-up. It's such a stupidly small detail, but that's exactly why I like it. Fashion doesn't always need to make a huge statement. Sometimes a ruffle peeking out from your shoe is enough to make you grin at yourself in the mirror.

Images via @marta_styled

Babydoll dresses have the same effect on me. They're soft, floaty, slightly ridiculous, and completely unapologetic about being cute. I love throwing one on with an oversized cardigan or cowboy boots because the contrast makes it feel less like I'm trying to recreate some perfect childhood fantasy and more like I'm stealing the parts of it I actually miss.

Because that's what I think I like about this whole thing. It's not really about wanting to be a kid again. There were plenty of things about childhood that I would happily leave in the past, thank you very much.

It's the feeling I'm after

Images via @buffaloshoesfanclub

The excitement of putting on an outfit because you love it, not because it makes sense. The little details that feel completely unnecessary but make you happy anyway. The freedom to look a bit silly, a bit sweet, a bit strange.

With everything changing so quickly, I don't think there's anything wrong with holding onto that.

If wearing ballet flats with frilly socks makes me feel twelve again for five minutes, I'll take it. Growing up is happening whether I like it or not. I might as well have fun getting dressed for it.