I'm low-key surprised that 23% is a big drop for holiday spending. I feel like we've been conditioned to think of shopping as this fun, indulgent thing, but I guess Gen Z is redefining what it means to treat yourself
. For me, the key is finding those experiences and communities that make shopping feel less transactional. Like, have you seen those virtual try-on events at Sephora? Genius! But retailers need to get real about affordability too - dupes are all well and good, but I'm still willing to pay a bit more for sustainable brands if it means supporting a cause I care about
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