Styled Essence

I would say that the media has had the biggest influence on trends and the spread of certain fashion styles, even if we look back decades before modern technology. To me, media includes newspapers, social media, posters, and so on, you get the gist.

Social media allows us to share ideas, creativity, diversity, and cultural influences, especially in fashion and personal experiences. It provides inspiration and educates us on various fashion trends and topics. It also allows online shopping and helps us feel part of a community, which some may label as “basic”, I admit I have before. However, I’ve learned to appreciate it, as being part of a community is fulfilling. It’s nice to support a trend and feel connected, as we all find unique ways to incorporate it into our own styles. This creates an interesting blend, where you can participate in a trend but still style it in a creative, personal way that makes it uniquely yours.

Certain trends don’t go viral without reason; it’s because they have potential and, in that moment, deserve their spotlight.

My taste in clothes and garments isn’t too far from current trends, but I always try to switch things up a bit to add my own style. Sometimes, I just don’t get the hype and choose not to participate;(not because I’m trying to be different or critical, but simply because I’m not willing to spend money on something I don’t see potential in). However, we all know that every piece has potential no matter what …so who am I to say that?

Of course, it’s a known fact that social media is the driving force behind recent trends, and it’s largely the reason why items like boots are popular, for example. But, it’s worth noting that many trending items on social media are often expensive or hard to find. Tracking them down at a thrift store, for instance, can be a huge time investment. So, trends exist for a reason, you know? It’s kind of a challenge and game to participate in and have small talk over.

Let me also try to change your perspective on the idea that social media instead of expanding it actually shortens the lifespan of trends, which is why many styles become quickly overdone. This can make certain pieces less appealing, especially since influencers and platforms like TikTok and Instagram push trends too fast. As a result, everyone ends up wearing the same thing, which can feel worn out and no longer unique, leading people to want to distance themselves from it. Instead of allowing styles to progress naturally, people jump to the next big fashion statement, making it harder for personal creativity to shine through which is a problem.

The more we see a certain garment on our feeds, the more we’re manipulated into thinking it’s cute or worth buying. I’ve found myself in this position many times, initially ignoring a piece, only to realize, after seeing it everywhere on my phone, that it might actually be worth getting.

This fear of standing out, especially in high school, colleges, or certain social circles, makes us afraid to be different and risk judgment, so we follow trends. Growing up in that little high school bubble, it’s difficult to differentiate, but a lot depends on the people you surround yourself with. I’m talking about those who question your style choices, like if you want to wear something other than a crop top to a party or decide to wear a dress to school. Judgment is the thief of self-expression. Truly.

Be yourself and do what you want, and look at social media as both a positive and negative influence on fashion. It exposes us to distinctive, new ideas that inspire and stimulate us, but it can also reduce originality and create a fear of judgment. Be wise and thoughtful about who you’re friends with, and stay true to yourself because every person is unique, and, honestly, no one cares that much about what you wear. In fact, originality, or adding your personal touch to a trend, is attractive and inspiring.