WHY PUT together a special editorial package all about generations? It’s simple: In 2023, no one can shut up about the ever-shifting dynamics between young and old—especially when it comes to trends. Flip phones? Those mature enough to remember the devices’ first coming can’t quite fathom why Gen Z has embraced them. Ditto: those plastic “claws” used to fashion cockatoo-like hairstyles first seen in the ’80s.
As boomers ease deeper into retirement, their dominance waning, and Gen X (the “forgotten generation”) toils in obscurity, millennials—now entering their 40s—have seen their role as the-ones-who-get-all-headlines usurped by Gen Z. Avocado toast, so central to millennials’ image, seems as dusty and irrelevant as a Victrola.
Still, what we learned in gathering these 20 stories is that every generation has lessons to offer the others. That won’t stop the young from masterminding exciting, toast-based innovations (the ball’s in your court, Gen Z) or older Americans from (understandably) rolling their eyes.
But it’s a start.
Who's Who?
» Silent (1928-1945)
» Boomer (1946-1964)
» Gen X (1965-1980)
» Millennial (1981-1996)
» Gen Z (1997-2012)
» Gen Alpha (2013-present)
What I Learned About Vacationing From My Workaholic Son—and His Phone
When a millennial son arrives at his parents’ Wi-Fi-challenged cottage in Brittany, the search for a signal forges unexpected connections of a different, cross-generational sort. Read the story.
Tampa: Why Gen Z and Millennial Tourists Are Flocking to This Retirement Mecca
Miami? Passé. Thanks to an influx of young travelers and residents drawn by its food and bar scene—and its walkability—this sleepy Sun Belt city is waking up fast. Read the story.
Why Baby Boomers Love the Kindle—and Millennials Don’t
While younger Americans value paperbacks as digital-detox tools, some older folks have quietly become e-book fanatics. A millennial explores the counterintuitive divide. Read the story.
Does Gen X Have No Style?
Sure, Gen Xers were cool in the 1990s, but has anyone paid attention to their style since? We figure out what their look is now (and whether or not it’s any good). Read the story.
Would You Share Clothes With Your Mother? This Mom, 68, and Daughter, 31, Gave It a Try
Mothers and daughters don’t always agree when it comes to fashion. We challenged a duo whose styles rarely mesh to create outfits using the same pieces. The upshot: They’re less dissimilar than they thought. Read the story.
The Espresso Martini Is Back. Gen X Asks: Why?
Decades after its first turn in the spotlight, this trendy cocktail has been co-opted by Gen Z. Here, a rich, full-flavored version that pleases everyone. Read the story.
When Parents Want to Pass Down Furniture You Hate: An Awkward True Story
An admittedly ungrateful daughter recalls the delicate push and pull of fending off her mother’s beloved secretary desk. Read the story.
70 Years Later, This Is Still the Best Summer Dessert
Our writer’s fascination with old-school desserts has won him a huge TikTok following—but for him, one mid-century summertime treat packs a particularly poignant punch. Read the story.
When Downsizing Inspires Creativity: ‘I’m 73. I Can Do Whatever the Hell I Want.’
For seniors, moving to a smaller space doesn’t need to signal the start of a quieter chapter—especially when it comes to interior design. Read the story.
Younger Clients, Worse Manners: How Luxury Shopping Has Changed Since 1976
After nearly five decades working at Manhattan’s Bergdorf Goodman department store, Betty Halbreich has helped a range of generations. Here, she reflects on what’s different—and what isn’t. Read the story.
Your Generation Invented These Looks. Gen Z Doesn’t Care.
Teens and 20-somethings are putting their own spins on iconic, decades-old styles. But can they beat the original versions? Read the story.
For These Influential Families, Life is Like ‘Succession’—but With More Wine and Less Drama
How do some families create successful intergenerational businesses? Lessons from California wine dynasties. Read the story.
Wait, Are Hearing Aids Cool Now? Ask Millennials
As younger Americans start to experience hearing loss, a new breed of hearing aids that function more like fancy headphones and fitness trackers are coming to the rescue. Read the story.
Can Men Ever Wear Shorts to the Office? What About Baseball Caps? Our Poll Results May Surprise You.
We surveyed more than 1,000 U.S. adults about what casual items guys can get away with wearing to work now. Often, generations were divided. Read the story.
For Healthy Vietnamese Recipes, This Gen X Chef Consulted a Master: Mom
As she entered her 50s, health concerns led Andrea Nguyen to dial back the meat in her cooking. Turns out, her 89-year-old mother got there first. Here, three vegetable-forward recipes to try. Read the story.
The Rise of Tattoo Tourism: The New Way Millennials and Gen Zers Plan Vacations
Young travelers now have a new angle when booking a vacation: Secure an appointment with a famous tattoo artist in a far flung location and return home with the ultimate souvenir. Read the story.
First Apartment Memories: The Challenges and Joys of Decorating When You’re Penniless
How well (or badly) did you decorate your first apartment? Five Wall Street Journal editors look back at clever décor solutions from their cash-strapped youth. Read the story.
Have Heirlooms You Want to Pass Down? Make Your Kids Download This App
Or do it yourself. These tools can help you and your loved ones catalog any belongings, along with the stories that make them special. Read the story.
If You Like Broadway and Cruises (and Are Between 19 and 90), This Vacation’s for You
Cruise enthusiasts can skew older, but these popular voyages bring together musical theater fans of every generation—not to mention Tony-winning performers like Kristin Chenoweth and Alan Cumming. Read the story.
Quiz: How Controlling Are You When It Comes to Your Kids’ Bedroom Decor?
Take our décor quiz: Are you too strict with your kids’ rooms? See what an expert says about the right amount of guidance. Read the story.
TALKIN' 'BOUT OUR GENERATIONS
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