Gen Z is obsessed with 2016, and beauty stocks like e.l.f. and Ulta are riding the nostalgia wave
MarketWatch·2026-02-07 13:00

Core Viewpoint - The nostalgia for 2016 among Gen Z is expected to drive a new boom cycle in the beauty industry, particularly benefiting companies like e.l.f. Beauty and Ulta Beauty [1] Group 1: Industry Trends - Gen Z's current social media trend involves sharing photos from 2016, indicating a longing for that era when social media was less commercialized [1] - The year 2016 is identified as a peak time for bold makeup styles, which contrasts with the subsequent trend of "no-makeup makeup" [1] Group 2: Company Impact - Companies such as e.l.f. Beauty and Ulta Beauty are positioned to benefit from this nostalgia-driven trend, potentially leading to increased sales and market interest [1] - The anticipated "supercycle" in beauty products, especially makeup, suggests a significant opportunity for growth for these companies [1]

Gen Z is obsessed with 2016, and beauty stocks like e.l.f. and Ulta are riding the nostalgia wave - Reportify