I would be Gen-Z if my birthday was just three months later, but I am glad that was not the case – because I had the best of both worlds growing up. I had access to modern tech but also early 90s computers and TVs; I love the Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears, and Billie Eilish all the same and this is all owing to being a ‘Zillenial.’ My Bollywood obsession began with iconic films like Kuch Kuch Hota Hai (1998), Kaho Naa Pyaar Hai (2000), and Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Ghum (2001). Ishq Vshk (2003) was a sleeper hit and it showed how the masses loved a good love triangle, drama, and, of course, Shahid Kapoor.
Honestly, I don’t remember watching it the first time, but a wave of nostalgia hit me as soon as I started seeing promo content for Ishq Vishk Rebound (2024). And with it, the Y2K revival is real. In the run-up to the release of this film, several movies like Jab We Met (another Shahid classic!) are screening in theatres again. It’s clear that we’re refusing to let go of the 2000s. Gen-Z fashion and makeup styles are also known to take inspiration from the 2000s, so I wanted to know what the cast of Ishq Vishk Rebound has been wearing while promoting the film.
Whether you love Y2K looks or want to create outfits inspired by Gen-Z style, let’s dive right into my favourite looks seen on Pashmina Roshan, Naila Grrewal, Rohit Saraf, Jibraan Khan. Scroll till the end for a bonus flashback!
Pashmina Roshan
The Gen-Z prefer natural-looking, glowing skin while using minimal makeup and you can see that in the cute vibe of Pashmina Roshan’s look. To recreate most of the look, you can use just one product – the PIXI Tintfix. The Gen-Z prefer multi-use products and this tint can be used on the eyes, cheeks, and lips for an even-toned flush look. For natural-looking and defined brows, use the eyebrow pencil from Insight Cosmetics that is long-lasting and smudge-free. Her outfit is reminiscent of the skirt and shirt seen on Britney in ...Baby One More Time (1999), and can be recreated with the top-rated cropped top and skirt from MIXT by Nykaa Fashion and Cover Story respectively.
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Naila Grrewal
If you’re not afraid to be bold, you must try this bronzed goddess look seen on Naila Grrewal. You can get this seamless look with the LAMEL Sunkissed Matte Bronzer that adds a healthy warm glow to your skin. Match the earthy vibe of the bronzer with the 12-hour matte Fae Beauty Lip Whip and complete the look with the Gen-Z staple fuffy brows and a wet hair look. You also can’t take your eyes off the vibrant strapless babydoll dress, which could not be more 2000s-coded. The dress from Globus will help you achieve a similar look and it’s available in 3 more striking colours to match your preferences. The top-rated pearl hoop earrings from Blueberry will help you elevate the look, along with a matching eternity ring and nude heels.
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Rohit Saraf
Gen-Z men’s fashion is all about the well-groomed appearance with loose fits that add a put-together yet easy-going appearance. The trimming and styling kit from the Bombay Shaving Company is all you need to achieve this look. It includes a brightening face wash, a multi-purpose beard-shaping tool, a signature blend of oils, and a trimmer and hair clippers. For the retro vibe, opt for the top-rated red shirt from Lee and remember to size up for a loose fit. The bestseller jeans from Styli in a classic retro blue are super comfortable and can be paired with virtually anything. The Gen-Z also do not shy away from accessories, and this braided leather wrap bracelet from Oomph is the perfect match.
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Jibraan Khan
Love a statement jacket? It’s Gen-Z-approved! This green ombre biker jacket from luxury brand Nirmooha is all you need to look chic. It’s available in sizes XS to 6XL for every body type. has a cool zipper detailing, and can be paired with virtually anything. Jibraan Khan wears it with a sheer shirt and black trousers for a street-wear-inspired outfit. Modern men are also big on skincare and love making a statement with their hair. Complete the look with the chic and handmade strap shoes from Carlo Romano and a minimal necklace in the latest style from Oomph. For all your hair-styling needs, opt for the Schwarzkopf Taft Power Hair Lacquer which will provide the hold you need to keep the look in place.
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Bonus Flashback
The white top and denim combo rule our lives to date and remain a must-have for casual and laid-back looks. Give it a modern twist with this trendy overlay crop top from MIXT by Nykaa Fashion and the top-rated high-rise denim jeans from Twenty Dresses by Nykaa Fashion in the popular mom jeans style. You can also twin with your beau with a white tank and denim for men. Lip gloss and bold kajal-lined eyes were the vibe in the early 2000s. We recommend the Lip Luminizer from Rhianna’s Fenty Beauty to get irresistible and fuller-looking lips and the waterproof Faces Canada gel kajal for intense black pigmentation.
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FAQs
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What is the top Gen-Z beauty trend?
Gen-Z prefers natural and dewy makeup for everyday looks with fluffy brows, minimal blush, and lip gloss. Graphic liners and shimmer eyeshadows are the top trend for weekend looks.
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What is Gen-Z fashion?
Loose-fit and easy-going outfits inspired by the late 90s and early 2000s define Gen-Z fashion. Inspired by the 2000s, this also includes funky prints and vibrant colours.
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Why is Gen-Z obsessed with 90s fashion?
An obsession with ‘decodes before digitisation’ is what appeals to Gen-Z toward 90s fashion. The individuality and innocence of the decade are what seem to attract them most toward this style.
