Generation Vs. Generation: Uplifting One At The Expense Of The Other Fuels Ageism

This week the prestigious Met Gala returned. Whatever you think of it – and the outfits – there’s no denying it’s a feast for the eyes. Gliding up those famous Met steps are some of the most extravagant and ostentatious pieces of wearable art in the world, and it’s an opportunity to truly marvel at the creativity and craftmanship that goes into designing them.

So Tuesday morning I sat down with a cup of tea, ready to indulge on pure fashion. I started scrolling through pictures, relished seeing celebs of all ages being celebrated or their looks. When I suddenly saw an article on BuzzFeed entitled:

“Gen Z Celebs Are Taking Red Carpet Fashion To Heights Millennials Could Only Dream Of"

At which point I let out a huge sigh.

We have got to stop uplifting one generation at the expense of another. Yes, let’s celebrate our society’s young-uns’ fabulous fashion choices, but shaming another generation is not the way to do it. It might seem empowering, but all these narratives serve to do is in-still further friction between generations, encouraging both sides to internalise ageist attitudes and stereotypes.

We need to knock down the walls of ageism but the solution does not lie in pulling down others in the process. Comparing any generation with another -  whether to say Gen Z are more fashionable than millennials, or “older women could teach younger ladies a thing or two on style” – is simply offensive and incredibly damaging.

Our industry has a responsibility to teach all generations how to be age inclusive, not teach them ageism biases from youth. Fashion – and style as a whole- should be an expression, an identity and a fun, celebration of who we are, whatever our stage of life.

So BuzzFeed, I’ll rewrite your title for you: “Gen Z Celebs Are Taking Red Carpet Fashion By Storm – and other generations look fabulous too”