It seems like yesterday’s boomers are today’s Gen X-ers, and like the baby boomers, Gen X-ers are easy to spot in the wilds of New Jersey. Whether it’s on the boardwalk, at the mall or in the park, here are five ways to spot a gen x-er from a mile away.
Grunge Era Memorabilia
In New Jersey, the Gen X community often retains elements from their formative years. You might spot a Gen X’er driving around with license plate frames from iconic ’90s bands like Nirvana or Pearl Jam. The music of this era speaks volumes about their generational identity. You might spot them with a faded and torn Korn shirt or Nine Inch Nails bumper sticker.
Shore Subculture
New Jersey is famous for its shore culture, and Gen X’ers are no exception. However, their beach attire might differ from younger generations. Instead of current beach fashion, they may sport classics like oversized Ocean Pacific t-shirts or vintage surf brands.
Everyone loves the Jersey Shore, but to Gen X-ers, the shore is the holy land, influenced by movies like Fast Break, Fast Times at Ridgemont High and decades of MTV Beach Houses and Jersey Shore reality shows.
Family Day at the Mall
Gen X’ers in New Jersey grew up with the mall as the epicenter of social activity. Don’t be surprised if you see them spending weekends at the mall, not just for shopping but as a family outing. They might also reminisce about stores that were mall staples during their youth but are no longer in business.
They also might just be the ones at the counter demanding to speak to the manager.
Diner Regulars
New Jersey is the land of diners, and Gen X’ers have their favorites. Unlike Millennials and Gen Z, who might opt for trendier food spots or health-conscious options, Gen X’ers often stick to classic diners where everyone knows their order.
These venues serve as communal spaces, much like the malls of their youth.
Why not? Gen X-ers spent most of their nights at diners. After a party, after a night out drinking, after a night a the clubs, etc. Diners were just where they ended up before going home and like they say…you can’t teach an old dog new tricks.
School Spirit
Many Gen X’ers in New Jersey take local sports and school activities seriously, often because they’ve remained in or returned to their hometowns. You might spot them at high school football games or local community events, wearing school colors or logoed apparel.
They’re not just spectators; they’re often actively involved, possibly as coaches or volunteers and most kids today have overbearing gen x sports parents. It has become an acceptable part of life for many.
In a state as diverse and densely populated as New Jersey, spotting a Gen X’er may require a keen eye and an understanding of local culture. Yet, with these signs, you’ll be well-equipped to identify members of this unique and influential generation.
Gen X-ers won’t usually wear their own high school gear though. They will usually be seen in the gear of their own kids’ schools, maybe their own college, but definitely in their favorite pro and college sports teams.