If there's one thing to know about Gen Z, it's that nothing will stop us on our quest for self-expression. We aren’t afraid to speak out, question culture, or challenge dress codes. Anything goes.

With another school year starting up, I hung out with four friends to get their take on style and what sets our generation apart. Read what they had to say, and see the wildly creative mash-ups they’ll be wearing on their first day—complete with Chucks in new colors straight-up perfect for fall.

My favorite thing to do in my Chucks is…
Walk around the city.

Describe your style in three words:
Bright, playful, and coordinated.

What’s your best piece of style advice?
Get out of your comfort zone!

Q: What does the color of your Chucks remind you of?

A: cotton candy!

Who is your biggest style influence?
My older sister. I’m constantly inspired by what she wears.

High tops or low tops?
Low tops, and laced tight.

Do you have any rituals when you get a new pair?
Get them dirty.

“Skateboarding has definitely changed the way I dress. It’s about having fun and messing around with your friends and being creative.”

My favorite thing to do in my Chucks is…
Skate.

What do you love most about this look?
That I made my clothes myself.

What’s your signature styling move?
Dying my hair to match my outfits!

What’s your best piece of style advice?
Don’t be afraid to experiment.

What does the color of your Chucks remind you of?
My childhood.

Q: What’s the best thing about being a teenager today?

A: we get to create the future.

What does the color of your Chucks remind you of?
Something peaceful. It’s a calming blue that makes me want to be chill.

Describe your style in three words:
Versatile, funky, and vibrant.

When you’re getting dressed for school, what’s top of mind?
Shoes first.

Q: What’s in your backpack right now?

A: Glitter eyeshadow, lint roller, and a bag of spicy chips.

What’s your signature styling move?
All monochrome everything.

What’s the best thing about being a teenager today?
We’re so proactive; we no longer ask for change, we demand it.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Very involved in the fashion industry, hopefully with my own clothing brand.

“Going to fashion school has really changed my perspective on style. I was always an ‘open to anything’ kind of person, but being around so much creativity makes you think about different ways to see the world.”

“ When I’m getting ready I think about the fact that anyone could notice me today — and if I wear an outfit that’s not exciting, no one’s going to. There’s not a day I don’t take my outfit seriously.”

Do you have any rituals when you get a new pair?
Create the best outfit and take an #OOTD photo.

What’s in your backpack right now?
Fruit snacks, a few pens, and for some reason, a lot of glitter.

When you’re getting dressed for school, what’s top of mind?
“I can meet anybody today; I better look amazing.”

High tops or low tops?
High tops—with fun socks!

What’s the best thing about being a teenager today?
I have a lot of opportunity to carve my own path. Everything is so possible when you’re a teen.