Oversized Shorts, Slip Dresses, and Tropical Barbie Vibes—7 Gen Z Pop Stars Leading the Trends in 2026

      While I typically use this weekly column to highlight the microtrends that are making an impact in the fashion world (think aquamarine blue, Pucci prints, and embellished thongs), this week I've chosen to take a different approach. As a fashion editor, my interest lies as much in the origins of a trend as in its sustainability. This summer, the majority of trends seem to stem from a common source: the pop stars beloved by Gen Z. With the cultural scene transitioning from a focus on quiet luxury to a more daring and vibrant expression, several powerful female artists are showcasing eye-catching styles both on and off stage, treating every public appearance as their own runway. Renowned for their distinct aesthetics in a time characterized by personality-driven maximalism, their dedication to crafting unique looks perfectly aligns with the demands of 2026. And Gen Z? They’re fully embracing it.

      Whether it's Renee Rapp reviving the Napoleon jacket and '60s-inspired glasses in a way that would make Cheryl Cole from the Fight for This Love era proud or Zara Larsson bringing glitzy heels, sequined tops, and diamanté jeans back into the spotlight (all of which are currently trending according to the LYST Index), it’s hard not to acknowledge their influence. The list could extend endlessly; right now, pop girls are certainly in the limelight. Exploring their engaging yet somewhat chaotic social media platforms reveals the significant effect music artists have on broader fashion movements, but seven in particular are generating the most admiration. Think of Addison Rae and her lingerie obsession, or Billie Eilish's decidedly "anti-fashion" stance; each of these women deserves recognition for their contributions to fashion in 2026.

      The 7 Most Prominent Female Gen Z Pop Stars of 2026:

      1. Zara Larsson

      Style Insights: Both Millennials and Gen Z can agree that this summer marks a second season of Zara Larsson’s influence. As shopping editor Florrie Alexander beautifully states, "She just keeps getting better and better." When "Lush Life" came out in 2015, I was a teenager captivated by the glossy electropop that punctuated my constant loop of One Direction and Justin Bieber. Honestly, I almost overlooked the Swedish pop sensation until the now-viral dolphin meme, set to "Symphony," took TikTok by storm in 2024. With a redefined aesthetic to match her music (her wording, not mine), her fifth album, "Midnight Sun," delivers exactly what Gen Z has been anticipating. Picture bejeweled denim capris and airbrushed baby tees, low-rise jeans, and her signature tropical island Barbie glamour. Her style captures a playful Y2K essence without appearing overly contrived or costumed. I'm fully supportive.

      2. Addison Rae

      Style Insights: If you had told me in 2020 that Addison Rae would rank among the top Gen Z pop stars, I wouldn’t have believed it. But since her departure from the Hype House and collaboration with Swedish producer Elvira Anderfjärd to create her album "Addison," she has solidified her position as a genuine pop artist. Earning a nomination for Best New Artist at the 2026 Grammy Awards, her record combines the sugary flair of Britney Spears' ...Baby One More Time with the wistful essence of Lana Del Rey's Born to Die, and her fashion journey reflects that musical shift. Embracing what she characterizes as "messy pop star energy," Addison has swapped her typical "valley girl" vibe for a more fashion-forward style. On stage, she’s donned matching Versace ensembles straight from Dario Vitale's spring/summer 2026 runway, while in her downtime she embodies the Gen Z take on Y2K fashion: micro-miniskirts, graphic baby tees, sheer slip dresses reminiscent of vintage nightgowns, and intentionally mismatched Pilates attire. It’s playful, nostalgic, and sufficiently chaotic to feel genuine.

      3. Renee Rapp

      Style Insights: Renee Rapp’s boldly tongue-in-cheek approach has become just as defining as her powerful vocals. Before becoming one of Gen Z's leading pop stars, she gained fame as an actress, achieving cult status in "The Sex Lives of College Girls" and later as Regina George in "Mean Girls: The Musical" and its 2024 film adaptation. Her wardrobe adheres to the same rebellious philosophy—or lack thereof. One day it might feature military jackets and vintage sportswear, and the next a lace slip dress with chunky boots. She embodies a blend of rockstar, theatre kid, and casual It girl. What I admire most about Renee’s style is that it proves the coolest individuals are those who appear effortlessly stylish.

      4. Olivia Dean

      Style Insights: If you’re British, you’ll understand why Olivia Dean, the nation’s darling and cover star for Who What Wear UK, deserves a spot on this list. From surpassing