The terms stickers and labels often seem interchangeable, but they carry distinct meanings and evoke different connotations depending on their context and the person using them. While they both refer to adhesive-backed items that can be affixed to surfaces, their differences go beyond function, touching on culture, aesthetics, and even generational perspectives. Let’s explore these differences and whether age plays a role in how people use these terms.

Stickers: The Creative Personality

Stickers are typically associated with creativity, fun, and self-expression. They are often decorative, featuring designs, illustrations, or slogans that resonate with personal interests. Stickers are commonly found on laptops, water bottles, and notebooks, functioning as a way to showcase individuality. For instance, a holographic sticker of a band logo or a quirky cartoon character is not just adhesive—it’s a statement.

Generationally, stickers tend to appeal more to younger audiences. Millennials and Gen Z, in particular, have embraced sticker culture thanks to platforms like Redbubble and Etsy, which make custom designs accessible and trendy. Stickers have become collectibles, items to swap and trade, or even a nostalgic throwback to childhood when sticker books and scratch-and-sniff stickers were all the rage.

Moreover, the word sticker carries a playful vibe. To a Gen Z digital native, stickers also refer to digital images used in apps like WhatsApp or Snapchat. This generational understanding reinforces the casual, expressive nature of the term.

Labels: The Practical Worker

Labels, on the other hand, have a more utilitarian feel. They serve an explicit function: to inform, organise, or provide instructions. You’ll find labels on jars, boxes, or clothing, giving critical information like contents, expiration dates, or care instructions.

While labels can also be decorative (like a beautifully designed wine label), their primary purpose remains functional. They’re typically associated with older generations or professional environments, where organisation and clarity take precedence. A baby boomer organising their pantry might think of labels as an essential tool, while a millennial might be more likely to think of pantry stickers as a fun DIY project from Pinterest.

Even in language, the word label has a formality and seriousness compared to sticker. Calling something a label emphasizes its role rather than its personality. It’s a descriptor, not a conversation starter.

A Generational Divide?

Whether someone calls something a sticker or a label could indeed be influenced by generational norms and habits. Boomers and Gen X are more likely to use label when discussing anything adhesive, reflecting a practical, straightforward view. Millennials and Gen Z, immersed in a culture of personal branding and aesthetics, lean toward sticker, a term loaded with creativity and customisation.

However, context matters too. A colourful image stuck on a laptop is almost always a sticker, regardless of who is describing it. Conversely, an adhesive strip on a file folder will almost always be called a label. The overlap arises with items like branding decals or custom adhesive products, where personal bias comes into play.

Conclusion

The choice between sticker and label often depends on the purpose and cultural lens of the speaker. While generational differences are part of the story, function and setting also play significant roles. Stickers are for fun and flair; labels are for function and order. Whether you call it a sticker or a label, though, one thing remains clear: both serve as powerful tools for self-expression and organisation—across generations.

We design and supply labels and seals at Kudos but we notice customers also ask and search for stickers, hence our interest in the topic!  Feel free to reach out and discuss your stickers (Hello Millennials and Gen Zedders!) or your labels (Boomers and Gen Xers!) .. we talk to both!