We've got the younger generation on the brain this week. Whether they're graduating and entering the "real world" or about to launch into the blissful summer vacation, teens today have their finger on the pulse of fashion and self-expression. Some teens are serious about finding unique vintage and handmade items, and turn to Etsy for a global marketplace of options. Etsy seller thishotmess, an Hoosier high school trend-setter with his sights on design school in NYC, gave us the low-down on WTW (what teens want). Listen up: this is the voice of the future!

When it comes to shopping and fashion, teens today are highly influenced by the media surrounding them. However, there are a select number who decide to make their own decisions and stand on their own two feet, disregarding any negative influence received from the media. These are the influential and experimental teens that currently hunt the pages of Etsy for incredible finds that they know will help them stand out in a crowd for reasons other than having on the newest hoodie from Abercrombie. By choosing Etsy to fulfill their shopping needs, they are enhancing their individuality and selectiveness for the most unique and special items available, which ultimately sets them apart from teens that abide by images that the media throws at them.

So, the Etsy teen obviously is one who has a high level of respect for the individuality of each piece made by Etsy members from around the world. The teen loves the idea of being the only one with that certain piece, whether it is a dress, piece of jewelry or new bag to hold his or her laptop. Also, teens today are more eclectic than ever; they want a little bit of everything. The same teen may want to look like a vintage Vogue cover one day, the next look like a hippie from 1965. As sellers, fueling this electiveness will be very beneficial to your business by offering the teen a variety of choices.

Furthermore, what do these future innovators of creativity seek at this very moment? I have selected ten things that I think teens are currently looking for, not only in their wardrobes but also in their everyday lives.

What teens are dying to get a hold of:
1. Something VINTAGE:

This necklace by edmdesigns made of vintage parts contains just the right amount of old time romance. Ingredients: one part vintage, one part eclectic, two parts unique, four parts cool!

2. Something MODERN:


This hat by kankalinhats perfectly mixes something modern and something unexpected.

Ingredients: one part modern, two parts fabulous, one part fun, three parts whimsy!

3. Something TIMELESS:


This necklace of creamy white pearls by jeweledblossoms is perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients: one part timeless, two parts classic, four parts perfect finishing touch!

4. Something SOPHISTICATED:


Talk about sophistication! This skirt by MaisyBrownReproRetro oozes maturity.

Ingredients: one part sophistication, three parts come hither, two parts wow!

 
5. Something YOUTHFUL:


This dress by Kcoline is perfect for that kid in you who still loves coloring books.

Ingredients: three parts youth, one part candy cane, two parts fun, two parts inhibition!

 

6. Something NO ONE ELSE HAS:

Call me when your friends show up with the same bike clothes as you. These charcoal grey buttoned garments by hierapparel.

Ingredients: two parts innovation, three parts awesome, two parts, oh the possibilities!


7. Something THAT SPARKLES:


This druzy ring by zulasurfing is the perfect sparkly for a trend-setting teen.

Ingredients: one part sparkly, two parts dazzling, one part stunning, three parts sleek!

 

8. Something YOU CAN CARRY EVERYTHING IN:


This bag by staroftwilight is perfect because it's the perfect size for all the gadgets the modern teen needs.

Ingredients: one part sunshine, two parts easy, one part cool!

 
9. Something SLIGHTLY WEIRD:


This photograph by coopernr1986 is twisted in just the right way that it isn't too odd but still makes you think.

Ingredients: four parts thought provoking, two parts puzzling, three parts interesting!

 

10. Something EASY TO THROW ON:


This awesome scarf by amysfunkyfibers is perfect to throw on for any occasion and with its bright colors you’re sure to be noticed for all the right reasons.

Ingredients: one part easy, two parts breezy, three parts ...trippy!


Clearly, thishotmess rules the school.  Here's some more content for teens and tweens on the Storque.