Goa’s Gen-Z appears to have made a quirky New Year’s resolution: To rediscover their state’s vintage charm right from fashion and music to travel experiences and cultural exploration.
“In the ‘70s and ‘80s, people used to flaunt bell-bottomed trousers, shirts with long, puffy sleeves, and flowy maxi dresses. In the early 2000’s, these were replaced with skinny jeans and body-hugging clothes. Interestingly, however, the trend of loose-fitting clothes, baggy jeans and oversized t-shirts has seen a resurgence,” says Shilpa Naik, who works at a local apparel store.
She also recalls how the retro fashion sense – mostly depicted in movies – was once an object of ridicule but has slowly become relevant, thanks to Gen-Z contributing in a great way to its revival.
Fashion-conscious young adults are now drawing inspiration from the iconic styles of the 1960s, ‘70s, and ‘80s. Vintage boutiques and thrift stores have become popular destinations, offering a treasure trove of garments reminiscent of a bygone era. From tie-dye shirts and bell-bottomed pants, to loose, flowery dresses and Hawaiian-themed shirts, the younger crowd is embracing these retro fashion choices, creating a fusion of modern aesthetics and vintage Goa.
Another significant trend among Gen-Z is the revival of music and its mediums that were popular before the digital age. Marc Fernandes, who is associated with a store selling musical instruments, says, “Some young people embrace vintage music while others may dislike it. Music bands, however, now incorporate both – modern tunes and classic songs – to ensure they cater to all tastes.”
Many restaurants and pubs dedicate particular days to retro music too. “If there is a Jazz Night on one day of the week, a Retro Night is scheduled for another day. The aim is to try and inject new life into music that people may have forgotten about,” says Fernandes.
When it comes to music mediums, vinyl records are fast turning into hot property. Fernandes says there is only one store in Goa that sells such records and that it has been witnessing droves of prospective customers seeking to lay their hands on a piece of vintage history.
The fascination with vinyl records and cassettes has, in fact, seen a resurgence across the globe in recent years, and this trend has made its way to the shores of Goa too. From old record stores to curated music events, young music enthusiasts are increasingly relishing the experience of listening to music in its original formats.
The sunshine state has long been renowned for its vivacious nightlife and electronic music scene. However, the retro revival of 2024 has added a new dimension to the party experience. Just as in restaurants, DJs and musicians are now incorporating classic hits from the past into their sets at clubs, creating a nostalgic atmosphere that transports party-goers back in time. Even retro-themed clubs and beachside venues have emerged to allow people to dance to the groovy beats of disco, funk, and soul music.
Gen-Z’s desire to explore offbeat destinations and experiences has led them to seek unconventional travel options in Goa. Instead of sticking to the popular tourist spots, they are venturing off the beaten track, seeking hidden beaches, quaint villages, and isolated
homestays. This exploration offers a fresh perspective on the vintage charm of Goa, away from the crowded beaches and bustling nightlife. By opting for unique travel experiences, Gen Z is embracing the tranquility and authenticity of vintage Goa while creating lasting memories.
Kaustubh Sawant articulates this trend. “Instead of hitting up crowded places like Baga or Calangute, we went to Kakolem Beach, or Tiger Beach. We went trekking through lush trails and found this paradise with the clearest waters and the nicest sand. It was such a vibe! It is crazy how things are changing. Choosing unique experiences over the usual touristy stuff was a blast,” he says.
Today’s Gen-Z seems to have a multifaceted approach to interests. While some may genuinely appreciate the revival of vintage Goa, visit heritage places, or seek out-of-the-box experiences for personal fulfilment, there’s also a notable trend where social media influence plays a role. The generation is indeed breathing new life into the hidden gems of Goa’s glorious past by refusing to be confined only to the present.
