The year didn’t just pass us by—it made us stop, scroll, laugh, cry, and scream “SLAY” at the top of our lungs. From hyper-niche online communities to massive cultural moments that defined Australia and radiated across the globe, this was the year we remembered exactly why Gen Z has the range. So, let’s talk about the e-trends, creators, and cultural shifts that made 2024 feel less like a year and more like a full-blown movement.
It started with eco-flexing. Sustainability didn’t just trend—it became the blueprint. Australia led the way, with streetwear brands like SecondSun AU and ReZin Collective turning recycled fabrics into fashion-forward looks that somehow made utility vests look hot. Zero-waste cafés were the spots for brunch, serving up vegan lamington smoothies (yes, that’s a thing, and yes, it slaps). And then there was the viral TikTok trend where people showed off their reusable thrift finds with captions like, “She’s not just sustainable, she’s an icon.” This wasn’t just performative wokeness—this was a whole lifestyle pivot, and Australia was the main stage.
And speaking of trends, AI and IRL merged in ways we couldn’t have imagined a few years ago. Aussie influencers became pioneers in the wearable tech movement, rocking AI-generated fashion that turned heads from Sydney to Paris. A collab between AI artist @LumeGlow and the Bondi-based label BondiCode hit the sweet spot between avant-garde and wearable. Their clothes didn’t just look good—they evolved in real-time, changing patterns based on the wearer’s mood. And let’s not forget the VR concerts popping up in Bondi, where fans could surf and vibe at the same time, or the AR graffiti in Melbourne, where walls literally came alive. 2024 was a future aesthetic, but make it chic.
Then there were the hyper-niche communities. In a world where it feels like every subculture has been explored, 2024 said, “Bet.” TikTok exploded with Neo-BushCore, an Aussie aesthetic that embraced rural living with pastel sunsets, Akubra hats, and the kind of flannel shirts that made you want to run through a field. Meanwhile, “PlonkTok” became the wine-lover’s corner of the internet. Everyday Aussies turned the Coles liquor aisle into their runway, reviewing affordable wines with chaotic energy that had even non-drinkers hooked. The best part? No matter how random these communities seemed, they were all about connection.
But 2024 wasn’t just about trends—it was about the creators who brought them to life. Take @MazieTheMuso, for example. She came out of Melbourne with a sound no one saw coming: didgeridoo meets hyperpop. It was electric, it was cultural, and it had the kind of energy that got the whole world listening. Her track “CyberDreaming” became a TikTok anthem overnight, spawning dance trends, makeup tutorials, and even remixes by DJs in Ibiza.
Then there was @TanzyRewilds, the queen of eco-Tok, who taught us how to compost everything—including skincare (don’t ask, just try). Her DIYs for turning thrifted flannel shirts into chic bean bags became the kind of chaos we couldn’t look away from. And let’s not forget @SuburbanChaos23, the Perth comedian whose series, “Australian mums in Bunnings,” sent us all into fits of laughter. This guy managed to make the mundane hilarious, and he deserves every bit of the global love he’s getting.
Of course, we also had the cultural moments that gave us goosebumps. Who could forget the Matildas’ legendary FIFA Women’s World Cup run? These women didn’t just play soccer—they owned it, packing stadiums and setting TikTok on fire with their victory dances to Tame Impala. They weren’t just athletes; they were icons, and Australia showed up for them in ways we’ll never forget.
Then there was Jade Lawson, the queer outback filmmaker who made Cannes history with her indie film “Eucalyptus Dreams”. A love letter to rural Australia, the film had audiences sobbing and brought outback representation into the global spotlight. And let’s not sleep on the first-ever Aussie Street Style Festival, where alleys in Melbourne became fashion runways, and skaters turned the pavement into a performance space. Vintage Crocodile Dundee merch even had a moment, which is something I didn’t realize I needed until now.
2024 wasn’t just a year—it was an era. An era where we embraced culture, community, and creativity like never before. It was about doing the most while staying true to ourselves. From the eco-baddies and AI artists to the Matildas and TikTok’s chaotic comedians, 2024 reminded us that Australia doesn’t just follow trends—it sets them. The vibe was immaculate. The energy was electric. And honestly? We ate.
So here’s to the year that slayed in every way possible. Bring it on, 2025—we’re ready for the encore. 💅
