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Gen Z's rhinestone trend sparks brand engagement and economic signals

A trend dubbed "whimsymaxxing" is seeing Gen Z extensively decorating everyday items with rhinestones, from coffee cups to skincare products. This phenomenon is being closely watched by brands like Starbucks, Sephora, and Ulta Beauty, who are incorporating the trend into their social media marketing to engage younger consumers. The rise of rhinestones is also being interpreted as a modern-day "lipstick index," indicating a consumer shift towards small, affordable luxuries during uncertain economic times, coupled with a resurgence of Y2K nostalgia. AI

RANK_REASON Article discusses a consumer trend and its economic implications, citing brands and individuals but not announcing a new product or research.

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Gen Z's rhinestone trend sparks brand engagement and economic signals

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COVERAGE [1]

  1. Fortune TIER_1 English(EN) · Sarah Glodek ·

    Gen Z’s bedazzling era is the latest Lipstick Index as youths put gems on everything from coffee cups to skincare

    Brands are leveraging young women's increasing spending power by jumping on the sparkly maximalism bandwagon.