A viral image showing a group of young women all sporting similar outfits has ignited a heated debate over modern fashion trends.

The photo, shared on X, showcases a group of Gen Z women wearing baggy light blue jeans paired with plain-colored tops.

While this casual combination of loose-fitting denim and simple tees is often associated with a laid-back, off-duty model look, many online commentators were surprised to see it chosen for a night out, traditionally a time for dressier outfits.

“Does anyone have any theories as to how light-wash jeans became considered evening wear?” the original poster questioned. “After 6 p.m., especially in the colder months, you would rarely see lighter colors than indigo,” they added.

Reactions poured in, with some agreeing that light-wash denim feels out of place after dark, while others dismissed the notion that jeans should follow a time-based rule. “Gen Z doesn’t know how to dress for different times of day or evening yet,” one commenter claimed.

Another user pushed back, saying, “There’s no way some people actually believe different colors of jeans are only appropriate for different times of day.” One person simply remarked, “I didn’t know people thought about jeans this way.”

The photo also reignited conversations about generational fashion trends.

Some commenters criticized younger people for dressing alike, with one saying, “I can’t believe I sound like an old-timer, but it’s wild how everyone dresses the same now! We may have dressed badly, but at least we had some PERSONALITY!”

Tina Grasso, founder of the Australian fashion label Chouchou Intimates, weighed in, explaining that wearing light jeans for a night out reflects a shift in how day-to-night dressing is perceived. “I believe this trend of light jeans and a top is a nod to the 90s, with Cindy Crawford being one who wore this often,” said Grasso, whose team is composed entirely of Gen Z members.

Grasso also noted that celebrities like Hailey Bieber are blending traditionally daywear items like light jeans with evening-appropriate tops, further influencing the trend. “In just the last 24 hours, I’ve noticed Hailey Bieber wearing light jeans and a lace top, blending day and night clothing choices,” she said.

She attributed the rise of this look to the resurgence of 90s fashion, amplified by social media platforms like TikTok, where creators have embraced the effortless vibe of “jeans and a nice top.” Grasso explained, “We’ve also seen the trend of ‘jeans and a nice top’ emerge, especially on TikTok, where many creators have made light, baggy jeans a staple of their ‘effortless’ looks.”

Grasso further suggested that Gen Z’s preference for wearing baggy jeans to bars and clubs reflects a quiet rebellion against traditional “dressed-up” evening attire. She contrasted this with millennials, who often opted for polished business-casual outfits for nights out. “Gen Z values functional fashion—clothes that are comfortable and feel authentic rather than overly polished or forced,” she explained.

When asked why Gen Z often seems to dress similarly, Grasso pointed to the collective influence of trends. “All generations do this, as we are all influenced by trends, pop culture, and shared experiences,” she explained. Designers also play a key role by creating pieces that set the tone for what’s popular.