In a polarised society, the meaning of gender is in flux. People want to be liberated from outdated norms – but many hold on to the gender binary as a source of stability in an uncertain world. How can brands navigate the changing gender landscape without leaning on stereotypes?

The past decade has seen political polarisation – accelerated by social media’s filter bubbles and echo chambers – deepen and mutate. An ominous era of a polycrisis has shattered any remaining societal consensus. Meanwhile, powerful anti-establishment voices have stepped into the void.

Pxssy Palace, a London club night and collective, offers an inclusive space for LGBTQ+ people of colour to connect and express themselves freely in a safe space. Its post-pandemic resilience offers an insight into the future of nightlife and community building for people of all ages.

The influence of a new wave of DJs, promoters, and audiences—many too young to have engaged with club culture before the pandemic—is breathing fresh, Gen Z tones into Berlin’s established club scene. A new landscape of social media/activist awareness is helping to change the world of nightlife.

A report from Kantar has found that people are drinking more at home because of the cost of living crisis, signaling an end to the post-pandemic bar boom. Many at-home drinkers are looking to explore the ready-to-drink market, opting for canned cocktails and unconventional flavors.

Shrek Raves, inspired by the 2001 DreamWorks animated movie, are taking off in popularity among Gen Z partygoers. At the intersection of nostalgia and cringe, it embodies Gen Z's yearning for comfort and unapologetic realness as they seek experiences that bring them together.