London Fashion Week (LFW) has always been a breeding ground for creativity, not just on the runways but also on the streets. Over the years, the event has been home to some of the most iconic beauty looks, inspiring countless trends around the world. However, as Gen Z takes center stage in the beauty and fashion world, they are not content with merely adopting old styles—they are reinventing them, blending classic beauty with an innovative edge. From edgy bangs to pink hair and quiet luxury nails, Gen Z is redefining the latest beauty trends. This generation thrives on expression, boldness, and individuality, and nowhere is this more evident than in their approach to beauty at London Fashion Week. Let's explore some of the most exciting street-style beauty trends that are shaping the future of the beauty industry. Follow us here at Gen Z Lip Liners
Bangs, Bangs, Bangs
One of the most noticeable beauty trends spotted on the streets of LFW has been bangs. But these aren’t just your typical blunt cuts or side-swept styles; Gen Z is taking bangs to a whole new level of experimentation. Think micro bangs paired with bold hair colors, curtain bangs that effortlessly frame the face, and even shaggy, textured bangs that scream casual chic. Bangs have been a staple in beauty for decades, symbolizing everything from rebellious youth to high-fashion elegance. However, with Gen Z’s take, bangs are now a form of self-expression, offering versatility and endless styling possibilities. Whether styled messy for that laid-back, cool-girl look or sleek and sharp for a polished finish, bangs are making a major comeback thanks to the creativity of Gen Z.
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Creative Braids
Braids have long been a symbol of tradition and culture, but Gen Z is giving this age-old hairstyle a modern, fashion-forward spin. At LFW, street style was filled with intricate braids that looked more like works of art than simple hairstyles. From tiny, tight braids woven into long, flowing hair to chunky box braids accessorized with beads and charms, braids are being embraced as a way to showcase individuality. What makes this trend particularly exciting is the fusion of various braiding techniques. Cornrows, French braids, and fishtails are often combined in unexpected ways, resulting in hairstyles that are both bold and beautiful. The popularity of creative braids at LFW speaks to Gen Z’s love for blending tradition with modernity, making it one of the hottest beauty trends around the world right now.
Quiet Luxury Nails
While bold and artistic nails will always have a place in the world of beauty, the rise of “quiet luxury” nails is something to watch closely. At LFW, Gen Z embraced this understated yet elegant trend, which is characterized by soft, neutral shades with a focus on simple designs that exude sophistication. The minimalist aesthetic of quiet luxury nails—think pale pinks, sheer whites, and muted beiges—is a response to the maximalist, highly decorative nail art that has dominated the scene in recent years. Quiet luxury is about quality over quantity, with clean shapes, impeccable finishes, and subtle details like tiny gems or thin metallic lines. This trend is reflective of a broader shift in beauty standards, where less is more, and the focus is on timeless elegance rather than fleeting fads.
Pink Hair
The streets of LFW were awash with pops of pink, as pink hair continued its reign as one of the standout beauty trends. While pastel pink hair has been on the rise for several seasons, Gen Z is pushing it to new heights by experimenting with various shades—from soft rose hues to bold fuchsia. What’s fascinating about this trend is its versatility. Pink hair works whether it’s worn in a full head of color or as delicate highlights interspersed through natural or platinum blonde locks. For Gen Z, pink hair is more than just a fashion statement; it’s a way to break free from traditional beauty standards and embrace individuality. As future beauty trends evolve, expect to see even more vibrant and experimental hair colors that challenge conventional norms.
Vampy Manicures
While quiet luxury nails are perfect for minimalists, those who crave something more daring are turning to vampy manicures. Deep, rich shades like oxblood, midnight blue, and inky black were spotted all over LFW, giving nails a dark, mysterious allure. Vampy manicures are nothing new—this trend first gained popularity in the ‘90s—but Gen Z is once again making it fresh and exciting by pairing these moody colors with unexpected elements like glossy finishes, chrome accents, or matte top coats. This trend speaks to the duality of Gen Z’s beauty aesthetic—one moment they’re rocking neutral tones, and the next they’re diving into gothic glamour with vampy nails. The resurgence of this look shows that darker shades are making a strong comeback in the beauty industry, offering a bold alternative to the soft pinks and beiges of quiet luxury.
Sheer Berry Lips
One of the more understated but undeniably chic trends seen at LFW is the sheer berry lip. In contrast to the heavy, matte lipsticks that have been popular in previous years, Gen Z is gravitating toward lightweight, sheer formulas that offer a natural wash of color. Berry tones—ranging from soft mulberry to rich cranberry—are especially popular, as they add just the right amount of color without being overpowering. This look is perfect for those who want a polished, effortless beauty routine. Sheer berry lips offer the perfect balance between looking put-together and maintaining that laid-back, “I woke up like this” vibe that Gen Z adores. Plus, the hydrating formulas used in many of these lip products make them comfortable to wear, adding a fresh, youthful glow to the face.
Future Beauty Outlook
As we look ahead to future beauty standards, it’s clear that Gen Z is shaping the trends in a way that feels inclusive, creative, and highly individualized. The beauty industry is moving away from rigid ideals and is instead celebrating diversity, self-expression, and the breaking of traditional boundaries. Future trends in the beauty industry will likely see more fusion between high fashion and street style, with a focus on sustainability and clean beauty products. Moreover, the rise of beauty trends like quiet luxury nails and sheer berry lips indicates a shift toward more minimalist, natural aesthetics, even as bold, avant-garde looks like pink hair and creative braids continue to thrive.
London Fashion Week is always a glimpse into what’s to come in the beauty world, and the latest trends spotted on the streets prove that Gen Z is fearless in its approach to beauty. From reinventing classic looks like bangs and vampy manicures to embracing understated luxury in the form of quiet nails and sheer lips, Gen Z is showing that the future of beauty is all about blending the old with the new, the bold with the subtle, and the traditional with the experimental. As we head into 2024, expect these trends to continue influencing beauty standards not just in London, but around the globe.