Maahi: 2026 is the new 2016!
Between the obscene amount of Snapchat and Instagram filters, intricate Starbucks drinks, and pop artists that actually made pop music, 2016 can easily be defined by one word: peak. Many could argue that 2026 should be its own year, though I argue that it’s exactly why it’s the new 2016. Not to make the claim that 2026 is 2016, but to make the claim that we can see similar cultural phenomena and trends from 2016 making an impact a decade later. Think of it as 2016 with a 20s twist. Zara Larsson’s “Lush Life” first hit the charts in 2015 and 2016. A decade later, it re-entered the charts alongside her most recent hit “Midnight Sun.” Say goodbye to Unicorn Frappuccinos and “hello Dubai.” Unicorn Frappuccinos gained traction for their bright color and limited-time craze. Comparably, Crumble Cookies Dubai Chocolate flavored treats have left a similar impact on sweet treat connoisseurs. As someone who decided to go to Crumble the week that Brownie dropped, I can confidently say that I have seen black friday shopping lines shorter than the line that stretched outside that Crumble. This flavor ultimately inspired Starbucks itself to make a Dubai Chocolate Matcha. The Dubai Chocolate fever might even beat the popularity of the Unicorn Frappe. I’m not saying 2026 is the carbon copy of 2016. Rather, I’m saying that 2026 reflects all the vibes that 2016 gave off. The bright colors, creative foods, loud, fun music- it’s a revitalization of one of the most iconic eras pre-COVID in the 21st century.
Sadie: 2026 is NOT the new 2016!
Sure, the dog filters, bright beverages, and cringey Musically dances were fun and all, but let’s be real, most of us were barely conscious during this time. Even the oldest of current high school seniors were only 8 or 9 during this era. 2016 had its teens and 2026 has its own. We are an entirely new generation and should be treated as such. I get that history repeats itself, but come on guys, who wants to relive the tragic death of zoo legend Harambe the gorilla (rest in peace Harambe). Sol De Janeiro filter and unicorn frappuccino? It just all sounds like more and more fads making a reappearance. The whole appeal to a new year is fresh starts and new things, so stripping 2026 of its own title and constantly comparing it to a previous decade is completely unfair. Like anything, nostalgia is good in moderation, but have too much of it and you find yourself yearning for the past. We cannot go back in time to say 2016, so let’s make the most of 2026 and give this blooming year its own identity.
