Gen Z Is Flipping Out Over Flip Phones

Gen Z definitely has an appreciation for vintage stuff. They're into everything from '80s mullets to '90s denim, Polaroid cameras to vinyl records. According to CNN, Gen Z's latest fascination is a surprising one: flip phones. Even with the hassle of multi-tap T9 texting!

In this age of every-improving smart technology, it's hard to believe that teens and young adults would want anything to do with something as clunky and archaic as a flip phone. But think about it. You can get a flip phone for as little as $20, which is a heck of a lot less than an iPhone, and the screens last longer. Sure, you don't have all the apps and the cameras are low grade but, just as with those retro Polaroids, that's part of the charm.

The best part of the flip phone trend, and perhaps the main reason why it has taken off with Gen Z, is the ability to disconnect, be more present, and live in the moment. Sammy Palazzolo, an 18-year-old freshman at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, took to TikTok to explain (with a little salty language) why she and her friends are embracing the old-school devices.

We've all heard or read the statistics about the dangers of too much technology and too much social media, especially for younger generations. The fact that they're actively seeking to protect themselves and re-calibrate the ways in which they interact and live in the world is encouraging.

Apple isn't likely to lose much market share to flip phones anytime soon. However, with celebs like Camila Cabello, Dove Cameron, and others jumping on the bandwagon, maybe this trend actually has some legs. I know I still have a couple of working flip phones in a drawer at home. Can you say, "business opportunity?"

Shopping at thrift stores is one of my favorite things to do. Finding items for a steal and those that are unique and truly one-of-a-kind has always been a joy for me. When I moved to Charlotte, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that there are so many thrift shops and liquidation stores within the area.

These days of rising prices, many people are looking for deals on great items at thrift stores and bargain stores. Take it from me, you can find some amazing deals that will make you and your wallet happy. But I get it, sometimes you need a little motivation and inspiration. With my help and thrifting skills, these 7 finds will inspire you to find your treasures.

Visiting the Goodwill here in Charlotte was one of my favorite trips. As always, thrifting finds were amazing during this visit. I found so many tagged finds during one visit that I was overwhelmed. Everything is in excellent condition and brand new. There were so many items from Target too. I swear, every time I visit this Goodwill I always find tagged items.

For me, thrift stores are anything that sells liquidated items, pre-owned items, or items that deserve a second chance. There are many stores in Charlotte, North Carolina, and one that I found nearby was in Concord. There were some weird things in these places, but they are unique and they are cheap. Personally, my favorite thing is shopping at thrifts/liquidation stores like this to score some fun gifts. On Sundays, every item was only $7. Here are some of the strange items I found.

You'll see on my TikTok account that I'm a big fan of Goodwill bins. In fact, I lived less than 10 minutes away from the bins for over 3 years and never visited there. What's the reason? In hindsight, I swear I beat myself up for not visiting it all those years ago since I had no idea what it was. Imagine what I might have missed! Anyway, during my first visit, I found so many cute pants. You can wear sweatpants, jeans, or corduroy pants. Yes, you have to search, but every pair was under $2!

Graphic tees are always in. You can find so many amazing vintage ones for under $5 at thrift stores. The Goodwill bins are a great place to find these graphic tees. I found so many during a recent visit.

I love this place. It's only open on certain days but it's a great place to thrift and saves on designer finds. There are tons and tons of pieces that are extremely discounted. At low prices, they have on-trend clothes and name brands that normally break your wallet. Whenever I need a new wardrobe, especially now with the holidays, I mark down the sale dates.

If you buy brand new holiday decor...I am currently judging you from a distance. Going to thrift stores like the Goodwill, Salvation Army and liquidation outlets are where you should be getting your holiday decor and more. The best time to shop is after the holiday you are shopping for has passed. Why? Because so many people get rid of their unwanted holiday decor to save space for next year to buy more. (or because all the new stuff they bought doesn't fit in their storage boxes) A win for you!

Last but not least, one of my favorite finds was actually a new one. It's a new Goodwill in Charlotte, North Carolina, and the thrift store is big and beautiful! I spend almost three hours looking in this store because there were brand-name finds like Free People, Zara, and Urban Outfitters.