POLLS: Is Tech More Important Than Fashion for the Youth?

The changing temperaments and habits of teenagers are difficult to forecast at best, but an article by The New York Times suggests that the younger generation are favoring technology over clothes now. What was once a bane for most parents, let alone their wallets to secure the latest trends, is now being increasingly spent on the most up-to-date technical goods. John Morris, a retail analyst at BMO Capital Markets has recognized that his regular focus groups with teenagers about what trends they are currently following get diverted to a different subject most of the time. He says, “You try to get them talking about what’s the next look, what they’re excited about purchasing in apparel, and the conversations always circles back to the iPhone 6.” Stephanie Wissink, a managing director at Piper Jaffray added that after years of strong growth, the percentage of money teenagers spend on electronics appeared to have stabilized at around eight or nine percent. However, for the first time, Jaffray’s semiannual survey of teenagers in the spring indicated that they spent more money on food than any other category. Her research from talking to teens has suggested that they are drawn in to restaurants due to the free Wi-Fi. In a generation where social media is the norm for communicating your life to others, it is of no surprise that teens are drawn to spots where Internet is plentiful.

There are many variables at play that contribute to this notion. The 21st century has arguably been one dominated by tech and the world’s most valuable companies have largely shown this. In addition, the general functionality and life enhancement that comes with tech is something that most fashion cannot offer. The multifaceted offering of tech, inclusive of communication, practicality and entertainment is something that has overcome the youth’s desire to create identity through fashion. Now with the highly-anticipated unveiling of the iPhone 6 and Apple Watch, there is an even greater demand for the latest in technology with all the new abilities these devices have to offer. Furthermore, the customizable aspects of these two new devices, especially the Apple Watch with its bevy of aesthetically changing options such as sapphire and gold custom alloys as well as leather straps, will add another factor for people deciding on what to purchase.

Let us know what you think down below and head over to The New York Times for the full read. In an age of technology, think about what is more important to you: tech or clothes?