Every generation assumes the world moves on without them, and for many boomers, it feels like much of what they grew up with has been replaced or forgotten.
But while some trends have faded, others have definitely stood the test of time — and some have even made a major comeback. From the return of vinyl records, a renewed love for handwritten letters, and even the revival of certain old-school hobbies, Gen Z has embraced plenty of things that boomers might have assumed were long gone. After all, trends tend to be pretty circular — that’s just how life works.
1. Vinyl records are still being bought and collected.
Many boomers remember the days when vinyl records were the only way to listen to music at home. As cassettes, CDs, and digital streaming took over, it seemed like records would become a thing of the past. But instead of fading away, vinyl has made a major comeback, especially with Gen Z. Young music lovers appreciate the warm, rich sound that vinyl offers, and for many, collecting records has become a passion. Independent record stores are thriving again, and even major artists release new albums on vinyl. What was once seen as outdated is now a prized way to experience music.
2. Film photography is still popular among young creatives.
With smartphone cameras and digital photography dominating modern life, many boomers believe that film photography is obsolete. But in reality, Gen Z has embraced it, seeing it as a unique and artistic way to capture moments. The unpredictability of film, the excitement of developing photos, and the nostalgic, grainy aesthetic all make it appealing. Many young photographers now actually look for vintage cameras, and film-processing labs have seen a rise in business. While digital is convenient, film offers something that no filter can replicate.
3. Thrift shopping is bigger than ever.
For boomers, second-hand shopping was often a necessity rather than a trend. But Gen Z has turned it into a lifestyle, not just for affordability, but also for sustainability. Instead of chasing fast fashion, young people are thrifting vintage clothing and embracing unique, pre-loved styles. From oversized ‘80s jumpers to classic leather jackets, Gen Z has revived styles that boomers once wore in their youth. Vintage fashion isn’t just alive—it’s thriving. What used to be seen as old and outdated is now considered cool and timeless.
4. Polaroid cameras are making a comeback.
When instant cameras first came out, they were revolutionary. But once digital photography and smartphones took over, many assumed Polaroids had become irrelevant. Surprisingly, Gen Z has brought them back, loving the instant and tangible feel of a printed photo. Unlike digital images that get lost in camera rolls, Polaroids provide a physical memory that can be shared, decorated, or kept in albums. Many young people now carry instant cameras to events, capturing moments in a way that feels more meaningful than snapping a quick pic on their phone.
5. Flip phones are being used again.
For the older generation, flip phones were once the height of mobile technology, but they were quickly replaced by smartphones. While most people today use touchscreens, some Gen Zers are deliberately switching back to flip phones to escape constant notifications and social media. These “dumb phones” help people disconnect from endless scrolling while still allowing them to stay in touch. It’s all about the digital detox movement, and some young people swear by it. What was once cutting-edge technology for boomers has now become a tool for reclaiming focus and mental well-being.
6. Handwritten letters are still meaningful.
Source: Unsplash In a world of emails and instant messages, many boomers think that letter writing is a lost art. But Gen Z has rediscovered it, using handwritten notes to add a personal touch to relationships, whether it’s writing to long-distance friends or leaving thoughtful notes for loved ones. Many young people now enjoy the process of sitting down with pen and paper, valuing the effort it takes to craft a meaningful message. Unlike a text, a handwritten letter is something tangible—something that can be cherished and kept forever.
7. Home gardening is as popular as ever.
Source: Unsplash For boomers, gardening was a common household activity, but with the rise of city living and busy lifestyles, many figured it had fallen out of favour. However, Gen Z has embraced it in a new way, whether it’s growing indoor plants, starting vegetable patches, or experimenting with balcony gardening. Beyond aesthetics, many young people see gardening as a form of self-care and sustainability. The act of nurturing something and watching it grow offers a sense of accomplishment, making gardening just as relevant today as it was in past generations.
8. Board games are still a social favourite.
With video games and online entertainment dominating social life, many boomers believe that board games have lost their appeal. But Gen Z continues to enjoy them, using them as a way to connect in real life rather than just through screens. Game nights have become a popular social activity, and classic games like Monopoly, Clue, and Scrabble are still going strong. Many independent board game cafes have popped up, proving that old-fashioned fun hasn’t gone anywhere.
9. Drive-in theatres are making a return.
Once a staple of mid-20th-century entertainment, drive-in cinemas seemed to be on the brink of extinction. But in recent years, they have made a surprising comeback, especially among younger audiences looking for a unique movie-going experience. Whether it’s for nostalgia or just a fun alternative to indoor cinemas, drive-ins have found a new audience with Gen Z. Some events even combine film screenings with food trucks and live music, making them more popular than ever.
10. Landline phones are still in some homes.
Most boomers remember having a landline as the only way to make calls, but in the age of mobile phones, many assume they’re obsolete. While they’re not as common as they once were, some young people still find them useful—whether it’s for better call quality, nostalgia, or as a quirky home feature. In some households, landlines remain a backup for emergencies. Others have embraced old-school rotary phones as trendy decor. While they might not be essential, landlines haven’t disappeared entirely.
11. Typewriters are still being used.
Once a necessity for writers and office workers, typewriters seemed to fade into irrelevance with the rise of computers. But many Gen Zers appreciate them for their vintage charm and distraction-free writing experience. Some young writers use typewriters to draft creative work, loving the tactile feel of the keys and the lack of digital distractions. Instead of fading into history, typewriters have found new life as both practical tools and nostalgic collectibles.
12. Classic literature is still widely read.
While modern books dominate bestseller lists, classic literature hasn’t gone anywhere. Many Gen Z readers still love works by authors like Jane Austen, George Orwell, and F. Scott Fitzgerald, finding them just as relevant today as they were decades ago. Social media has even helped revive interest in classics, with book clubs and reading challenges encouraging younger audiences to dive into older works. Literature from previous generations continues to resonate, proving that great storytelling never truly dies.
13. Handcrafted goods are still in demand.
With mass production and fast fashion dominating the market, many boomers assume that handcrafted goods have been pushed aside. However, Gen Z has shown a strong appreciation for handmade, artisanal products, valuing quality, uniqueness, and sustainability over mass-produced convenience. From hand-knitted clothing to pottery, leather goods, and furniture, there has been a growing movement toward supporting small businesses and independent makers. Platforms like Etsy have made it easier than ever for young people to buy and sell handcrafted items, keeping traditional crafts alive and well.
14. Sunday roasts are still a big deal.
Many boomers think that the tradition of sitting down for a proper Sunday roast is fading, especially with the fast-paced lifestyles of younger generations. But Gen Z hasn’t abandoned this beloved British tradition—it has just evolved to fit modern tastes. Whether it’s a home-cooked meal with friends or a trip to the local pub for a roast dinner, many young people still embrace the tradition, albeit with some updates. Plant-based roasts have become more common, and social media has helped keep the love for a good Yorkshire pudding alive. While it might not look exactly the same as it did decades ago, the Sunday roast is still a staple of British culture.
