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

We watched all the early Halloween TikTok content we could find, and these are the trends Gen Z is preparing for…

Article

TikTok Shop is a major shopping platform for Gen Z—a position it has grown over time…

Article

It’s back to school season, and these four brands have gotten creative to make sure Gen Z is a part of the equation… 

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)?