Back to the 90s! The Gen Z Nostalgia Phenomenon

Hello, EastPro Friends!

When we talk about Back to the 90s, we immediately reminisce about unforgettable moments filled with 90s music, iconic movies, favorite celebrities from the past, and even the OOTD styles of that era. Nostalgia has the power to bring back sweet memories from the past. Nowadays, many concerts, festivals, and community events with Back to the 90s themes are being held, along with retro-themed reunions and other old-school concept events. Instead of being overlooked due to their vintage themes, these nostalgic events are actually drawing large crowds. What’s even more interesting is that the younger generation—Gen Z—is also jumping on the trend.

Gen Z Nostalgia Phenomenon

In 2025, the entertainment world is booming with nostalgia themes, especially among Gen Z. From 90s music and concerts featuring legendary artists to throwback events and vintage fashion collections, nostalgia has become more than just a memory, it’s now a part of youth culture. This phenomenon is reflected in the rise of music festivals, reunions, cassette and CD collector communities, and the comeback of Y2K fashion trends. Nostalgia has become one of the biggest entertainment trends of 2025. So, what exactly is this Gen Z nostalgia phenomenon all about? Let’s dive in!

Why Does Gen Z Love Nostalgia?

Gen Z, born in the digital era, never truly experienced the simplicity of life in the past, whether in terms of music, fashion, or technology. Amid the endless flow of information today, Gen Z has developed a fascination for the 90s lifestyle. More than just a trend, Back to the 90s influences their way of thinking and how they shape their identities. But why are Gen Z so drawn to 90s nostalgia? Here are a few reasons:

1. Curiosity & Exploration

For Gen Z, music and entertainment from the past are fresh and exciting to explore. They are eager to learn what life was like before streaming platforms and social media took over. The past represents simplicity and comfort.

This exploration is also made easier by modern technology. Streaming platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok allow them to listen to old-school music, watch classic movies, and dive deep into past trends effortlessly.

2. FOMO (Fear of Missing Out)

The nostalgia trend is growing rapidly on social media, fueled by numerous challenges and throwback content on TikTok and Instagram. Gen Z doesn’t want to miss out on the fun, especially when their friends are joining in. Many concerts featuring legendary bands and singers from the past are now highly anticipated by Gen Z. They experience FOMO, feeling the need to keep up with trending throwback concerts and music festivals.

3. Aesthetic & Uniqueness

90s music, movies, and fashion have distinct and authentic characteristics compared to the fast-changing modern trends. Vintage items like cassettes, CDs, and second-hand fashion pieces are now highly sought after.

For Gen Z, embracing nostalgia is also a way to balance the past and the future.

4. Awareness of Sustainability

Beyond trends, many Gen Z individuals are conscious of sustainability. They prefer vintage items and thrift shopping over fast fashion. Physical music collections like CDs and vinyl records are seen as more sentimental than digital playlists.

90s Music Revival

One of the biggest nostalgia trends among Gen Z is the revival of 90s music. Songs with deep emotional connections and relatable lyrics are making a strong comeback. Listening to 90s music has become a form of self-expression for Gen Z. Social media plays a huge role in making these songs accessible and shareable. Many old-school songs are being remade and are trending again among younger audiences.

Here are some examples of the 90s music revival:

• Reunion concerts like Sheila On 7 are selling out venues in various cities. Dewa 19’s concerts are eagerly anticipated by fans across generations, from Gen X and Millennials to Gen Z.

• Classic songs going viral. Old songs are being rediscovered and going viral on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram Reels. For example, Yura Yunita’s cover of Dewa 19’s Risalah Hati gave the song a fresh new feel, making Indonesian music lovers fall in love with it all over again. This trend even sparked the viral meme "Gak Bisa Yura," leading to remixes and fun content from netizens.

• Physical music collections making a comeback. CDs, cassettes, and vinyl records are being sought after by music lovers.

The large number of live concerts held by event organizers is also driven by the high interest of the millennial and Gen Z. Currently, attending concerts or music festivals has become an important part of their lifestyle.

Nostalgia Events That Are Trending

Nostalgia isn’t just about music, it’s also influencing event trends. Here are some of the most popular nostalgia-themed events among Gen Z:

• Nostalgia Music Festivals

  Reunion concerts featuring legendary 90s bands are drawing massive crowds. Many music festivals now feature collaborations between modern artists and 90s icons, offering a fresh yet nostalgic experience.

• Throwback Events

  Community and corporate gatherings with Back to the 90s themes are becoming popular. These events often feature 90s guest stars, dress codes, and interactive retro elements.

• School & Campus Reunions

  Nostalgic gatherings that reunite old friends in a fun and memorable setting.

• Vintage Pop-Up Markets

  Perfect for hunting down retro items and rare collectibles.

The Vintage Fashion Trend Among Gen Z

Besides music and events, vintage fashion is also making a huge comeback. 90s and early 2000s styles are dominating the fashion scene, including:

• Y2K & 90s looks such as crop tops, baggy jeans, windbreakers, and classic sneakers are all the rage.

• Retro accessories: small sunglasses, chokers, and mini bags are must-have items.

• Thrift shopping & preloved items. Gen Z is embracing second-hand fashion for both style and sustainability.

Want to Host a Nostalgia Event? Let’s Go with EastPro!

EastPro friends, are you part of Gen Z who loves this nostalgia trend?

The nostalgia wave in entertainment is an awesome inspiration for hosting memorable community or corporate events. If you're planning a nostalgia-themed music festival, a grand reunion, or a throwback event, EastPro Event Organizer is the perfect partner to make it happen!

As the best event organizer in Jakarta, EastPro has extensive experience handling spectacular events. Whether it’s a festival, company gathering, award show, product launch, or exhibition, we are here to deliver top-notch execution with creative concepts.

Ready to relive the past in an epic way? Let’s make it unforgettable with EastPro!