Hello Kittymay be celebrating her 50th birthday, but her reign is far from over. A new survey targeting Japanese Gen Z women has revealed that the iconic Sanrio mascot is more popular than ever among young fashionistas and beauty trendsetters. Despite being created in 1974, Hello Kitty has not only held onto her global relevance, she is thriving in a way that few legacy characters ever manage to achieve.
The survey, conducted by trend site Fasme and published byPR Timeson June 20, asked 166 women aged 18–24 about their favorite cultural staples.Topping the list of most beloved characters was not a hot new anime protagonist or viral influencer mascot, it was Hello Kitty.And her lasting appeal has less to do with nostalgia and more to do with Gen Z embracing her aesthetic as a fashion and lifestyle statement.
Gen Z Has Officially Claimed Hello Kitty as Their Own
How Gen Z Made Hello Kitty Cool Again
According to Fasme’s findings, Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary has sparked a major wave of interest among young women in Japan.While Sanrio has long been a beloved brand, Gen Z’s enthusiasm for limited-edition drops, retro-core fashion, and playful collectibles has helped launch Hello Kitty into a fresh cultural spotlight.The anniversary events and exclusive merch have not only delighted longtime fans, they have made Kitty a fashionable emblem of youth identity.
This reimagining of Hello Kitty’s image fits perfectly with Gen Z’s love for mixing old-school cuteness with modern edge.For Fasme’s core audience of beauty and fashion lovers, Hello Kitty is less a cartoon and more of a canvas. She appears in everything from Swarovski-studded Crocs to curated cosmetics packaging.Her wide-eyed charm, minimalist design, and sense of timeless whimsy make her a perfect fit for the Gen Z moodboard.
Kuromi and Pochacco Are Riding the Same Wave
The Rise of Kuromi, Pochacco, and the Kawaii Revival
Hello Kitty is not the only Sanrio star thriving among Gen Z. Her rebellious counterpart, Kuromi, ranked second in the Fasme survey thanks to her growing influence on fashion-forward girls who gravitate toward gothic-cute styles. With her moody expressions and black jester cap, Kuromi has become the go-to icon for those blending soft aesthetics with punk attitude. Social media is flooded with Kuromi-inspired makeup and outfits, proving her status as a true trendsetter.
Meanwhile, Pochacco, the floppy-eared dog born in 1989, has become a low-key favorite for his laid-back energy. With his soft design and cozy vibe, he stands in contrast to more hyper-stylized mascots. Fasme notes that Gen Z appreciates his “not trying too hard” appeal. In an era dominated by curated personas, Pochacco’s effortless charm offers a comforting kind of authenticity that feels refreshingly real. At 50,Hello Kittyis more than just a nostalgic mascot; she is a Gen Z icon, and she brought her friends along for the ride.
