Younger generations always find fresh ways to poke fun at trends they find over the top. The latest slang term making waves online comes straight from Gen Z, and it packs a punch for anything seen as flashy yet tacky. Known as “chubai,” this word has exploded across social platforms, quickly becoming a go-to label for pretentious vibes. It catches on fast because it captures that mix of excess and lack of genuine style.
The term blends “chopped,” a Gen Z favorite for something ugly or off-putting, with “Dubai,” the city famous for its over-the-top luxury and influencer hotspots. Together, they create a perfect jab at superficial opulence. People use it freely to call out items, habits, or experiences that scream trying too hard. No one knows exactly where it started, but it has spread like wildfire through videos and comments.
Think about everyday luxuries that once felt aspirational. Now, Gen Z often brands them as “chubai.” A classic French pedicure or a Cartier Love ring might draw eye rolls for seeming outdated and showy. Even one-piece ski suits or calling a simple brown shade “chocolate brown” can earn the label. These choices feel too polished in a forced way to this crowd.
Food and drink trends take hits too. Serving pasta inside a giant parmesan wheel looks dramatic but lands as gimmicky now. Cocktails bubbling with dry ice or oat milk from brands like Oatly come across as unnecessarily fancy. Truffles, edible gold flakes, and even Whispering Angel wine fall into the same category of excess without soul.
Travel and lifestyle choices face scrutiny as well. Jetting off to the Maldives or planning a destination bachelorette party signals overdone luxury to many young people. Babymoons before birth or lavish push presents after delivery feel like performative gestures. Driving a Tesla, once a cool status symbol, now sometimes hurts your image in these circles.
@claudiaclaudiaclaudia3 Haters gunna hate – we love chubai @l3x1pr0 #chubai ♬ original sound – claudiaclaudiaclaudia3
Beauty and fashion get roasted plenty. Russian lash extensions, rose gold accessories, or Hermes Oran sandals often appear on “chubai” lists. Small designer bags from brands like Goyard or Van Cleef & Arpels jewelry strike some as pretentious picks. Even workout gear from Alo or puffer jackets from North Face can seem like uniform choices for posing rather than practical use.
Social media expert Jamie Nyqvist spotted this trend early on her feeds and shared insights on LinkedIn. She warns brands that getting tagged as “chubai” could hurt their appeal with younger buyers. Companies like Soho House or those selling non-wilting rose boxes might not realize how Gen Z views them. Nyqvist stresses that marketers need to stay tuned into these cultural shifts to avoid looking out of touch.
Other habits draw fire too. Staged marriage proposals in Paris or gender reveals with online photos feel scripted and attention-seeking. Real estate agents handing over keys in fancy boxes or cafes decorated with fake flower domes add to the list. Even using ChatGPT openly or practicing Reformer Pilates can come off as bandwagon trends without depth.
This slang evolution shows how tastes change quickly. What felt exclusive yesterday can turn tasteless tomorrow in the eyes of a new generation. Gen Z acts like informal gatekeepers, policing what counts as authentic versus performative. Their judgments spread fast online, shaping perceptions for everyone.
Older folks often struggle to keep up with these rapid shifts in language and attitudes. Terms like “chubai” join a long line of confusing Gen Z expressions that leave parents or tourists puzzled. Surveys reveal many adults over 50 feel lost when hearing this kind of lingo. It highlights the ongoing gap between generations in how they see style and status.
Brands and individuals alike might pause before chasing the next big trend. Staying aware of these labels helps navigate social scenes without unintended shade. The “chubai” wave reminds us that coolness stays fleeting and subjective. Authenticity often wins out over flashy displays in the long run.
What everyday luxuries or trends do you think qualify as “chubai,” and have you changed your habits because of Gen Z’s influence? Share your thoughts in the comments.
