Dear Gen Z, This Millennial Is Keeping Her Side Part

Dear Gen Z,

It has come to my attention that you view Millennials as “old.” Truthfully, I knew this day would come, but I can't get behind your reasoning. Let’s talk about the reasons as to why you consider us old so I can squash those opinions with my Ugg boot.

I'll start by saying that this isn't about who has the better style or who is the older one in this equation. Millennials are older and style is a reflection of current pop culture. However, I don't have to agree with your pop culture. The biggest opinion I keep seeing is that you are mortified by our skinny jeans. Here’s the latest example I have found:

First of all, I will never get rid of my skinny jeans. If you’re trying to tell me that your high-rise jeans that go up to your chest are more flattering than my skinny jeans, consider me unfashionable.

Also, here’s a friendly reminder: the tube tops, corduroys, and platform shoes you love to wear is straight from the 90s. That’s right, Gen Z; we started it. Been there, done that. Second of all, skinny jeans allow you to wear any type of shoe. Whether it’s boots or Vans, skinny jeans are ideal. Not to mention, they’re comfy and let’s face it, that’s all that matters these days.

The next opinion I keep hearing is your hatred of our side parts. While I would like to laugh at this one and move on, it makes me realize that hairstyles can go out of fashion rather quickly. While we were making fun of our mother’s perms and volumized bangs, you have turned your attention to our side part. I can’t fault you for pointing out a trend that has been going strong since the 90s, but I have a permanent cowlick from parting my hair the same way for years, so there is no turning back now. You can have your middle part, and I’ll keep my skinny jeans.

I think the silliest one of all, however, is the fact that you think Millennials are old because we like to use the “crying laughing” emoji. I never thought I would see the day that using a certain type of emoji would categorize me as old. You want to see "old"? Try making an "emoji" with just the buttons on your keyboard ;). =), :P.

If you really view us all as old, fine, I can’t prevent that. I am closer to 30 than I am to 20 and I have to come to terms with that. This isn't even about “who did it better.” Times change and so do trends.

But never forget, Gen Z, Millennials paved the path for you. We invented the selfie, catapulted social media into the spotlight (shout out to Myspace), and rocked oversized sweaters with biker shorts long before you did. We didn’t have influencers to teach us makeup tricks, we figured it out on our own by playing with our mother’s mascara.

So in all seriousness, you’re welcome for laying down the groundwork. We’ll be here for you when the next generation starts poking fun at your TikToks.

Sincerely,

A Thriving, Skinny-Jean Wearing, Side-Parted Millennial