article

How Viral Products Are Teens’ Status Symbols—in 3 Stats

For teens, the “it” product to have isn’t luxury, it’s whatever trending on their FYPs… 

Written and Edited by the YPulse Editorial Team
KEY TAKEAWAYS
  • Growing up, Millennials considered luxury as status symbols, but teens today see viral merch as the coolest flex
  • Teens love showing off their merch, and when something goes viral, they want it even more
  • Many teens are quick to grab viral, limited-edition products before they sell out
Luxury items used to be the ultimate markers of “making it,” especially for Millennials. Older gens grew up thinking aspirational shopping meant saving up for (or dreaming about) high-end pieces that signal status and taste. But teens now are flipping that entire idea on its head. Instead, they’re all about viral products as the “it” items to have and be seen with. Owning the latest Stanley cup, Trader Joe’s tote, or even a squishy can feel just as cool—if not cooler—especially for a generation that has romanticized affordability and dupes. And anyone on social media can decide what’s a must-have...

Stay on the Pulse

Latest Stories
Related Articles
Article

Gen Z may be getting credit for bringing the mall back, but YPulse data shows they never really left…

Article

Gen Z still values shopping in-person—especially when their favorite stores make it affordable, convenient, and fun to browse…

Article

Some of tweens’ very first purchases are happening in video games…

YPulse Weekly Newsletter

Get our editors’ weekly picks on the Gen Z and Alpha stories you need to know.

Your newsletter subscriptions are subject to YPulse’s Privacy Policy and Terms and Conditions.

Enter your colleagues' emails (max 10) to invite them to sign up for a YPulse account. We'll send them a message and let them know you invited them.

plus-circle Created with Sketch Beta.

Are these emails correct? If so, click Submit Invitation(s)?