The new generation of agriculture likes to do things a little differently. Gen-Z have started to delve into the farming industry, either purchasing their own farms, working on a farm or embracing the agricultural fashion in everyday life. Sustainability is one of the biggest differences between modern farming and previous generations, as they want to find the best practices that make their farm more eco-friendly.
Sustainability focuses on a variety of things and one of them is clothing. Gen-Z farmers have different clothing compared to other generations. They have seemingly done away with wellington boots, waterproof jackets and button up shirts that we have seen in the past and opted for more fashionable farming attires while they’re working. The perfect balance between style and functionality is essential for Gen-Z farmers to ensure that they can complete their jobs while still looking good.
This guide will explore how Gen-Z have put their own sustainable spin on agricultural apparel and reveal some of the latest trends in farming attire for this generation. Continue reading to find out more.
Gen-Z Farm Fashion
Baggy Trousers
Baggy trousers have become very fashionable among Gen-Z within recent years, as it offers a relaxed fit that is seen as stylish yet effortless. It’s made for those who want to have a laid back aesthetic while still looking good in the process. This trend has bled its way into farming culture for Gen-Z, as baggy trousers allow ease of movement that is essential for farming. Baggy trousers can come in several forms, but for Gen-Z farmers it seems to be cargo trousers that are the most popular.
Gone are the days of skinny and slim fit trousers with the same going for the farming industry. Farmers of the past would wear these trousers tucked into their wellington boots, but they now wear baggier alternatives that hang over their boots. This fits in with Gen-Z fashion trends that we see today and it has made farmers look far more stylish.
Dungarees
Dungerees and overalls are considered to be great for farming, as they cover a large area of the body so you will be shielded from scratches or chemical exposures. They are very functional because they usually have a huge pocket attached to the front for farmers to store essential tools. The durability of dungarees is one of the main reasons why they are worn on farmland.
Gen-Z farmers have embraced dungarees and made them part of their fashion trends, so it’s the perfect combination of style and practicality. However, it’s important that dungarees are made sustainably. While denim is the most popular dungaree material, you can instead use organic fabrics or recycled materials like cotton. You can use denim if you are upcycling old denim from other clothing items and creating your own dungarees.
Functional Streetwear
Wearing functional men’s streetwear is very common for Gen-Z male farmers, as they prioritise comfortability and functionality with their agricultural apparel. While streetwear might lack durability and protection during farming, it can be great for functionality and range of movement. There are also many types of streetwear that Gen-Z farmers can wear, such as hoodies, sweatshirts and cargo trousers which can all improve your comfort while working with agriculture.
Tech Integration
Gen-Z agricultural apparel isn’t just about being stylish, as it’s also about finding intelligent agriculture processes. The tech-saviness of the generation has made its way into farm wear. One example of this is built-in sensors in clothing that helps with the monitoring of health and environmental conditions. Smart watches are also being worn by a lot of Gen-Z farmers and it can help them with their agricultural practices, as it can provide real-time data on weather conditions, soil moisture levels, livestock health and activity levels.
The 1.5 trillion dollar fashion industry creates 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and requires a lot of water. IoT (internet of things) technology assists brands in addressing these environmental concerns. These gadgets monitor and cut down on energy use, which lowers expenses and energy usage. Gen-Z have embraced eco-conscious fashion and have made it become far more stylish in modern times.
Personalisation and Expression
When it comes to fashion, Gen-Z prioritises individuality so they want clothing that is personalised and shows expression. Adding personal touches to their farm outfits has become a trend, as they put on unique accessories and wear customised workwear. The customise workwear can also be great for farming, as they seek solutions that will protect them from adverse farming conditions. With most farmers wearing the same types of garments, this personalisation gives them a chance to stand out from others in the industry.
Vintage Wear
Vintage clothing and thrift shopping is very popular with Gen-Z, as it allows them to find unique pieces on a budget that offer a sense of nostalgia while still being stylish. This doesn’t seem like finding a pair of old school slacks, but instead finding clothing like loose-fitting jeans that look great while also being great for farming needs. Vintage clothes shopping is much more eco-friendly than purchasing new clothing, which is something that many Gen-Zers are striving towards.
Workmen’s Boots
Workwear has become an underground fashion trend for Gen-Z with people looking to add unique twists to their wardrobe by dressing in clothing that would be useful on construction sites. Workmen’s boots are proving to be popular footwear for both men and women. These will be great for farming too, as they can protect your feet from many aspects of farming and agriculture. For example, they will protect your feet from any tools or goods that you drop.
Conclusion
The Gen-Z farmer is a pragmatic idealist, seamlessly weaving together style, sustainability and functionality in their outfits. Their choice of baggy trousers, dungarees and tech-integrated apparel isn’t merely about aesthetics; it’s a strategic approach to modern agriculture. This generation’s clothing choices are a testament to their ability to adapt and innovate, demonstrating that practicality and personal expression are not mutually exclusive in the 21st-century farm.
Image source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-person-in-denim-dungarees-posing-in-a-field-of-yellow-flowers-16465998/