By TyShawnna S. Williams for Insidemyweedbag.online
INTRODUCTION
The fashion world is not new to trends, as much as some would like to blame the popularity of the internet or trends, we would be remiss to leave out the factual reality. Trends and statements have pushed the fashion industry forward for decades now. Make no mistake, I, much like any other adult who considers themselves to be a long-time lover of fashion, have followed trends, even outlasting the trend’s original reign, making said clothing piece a permanent part of your wardrobe. But what is being discussed here today is the extreme lack of that going around. People no longer only participate in fashion trends that align with their already existing aesthetic; the most consistent fashion trends popping up on social media are the ones where the trend IS the aesthetic (i.e. clean girl aesthetic, mob wife aesthetic, and their sorors). We will be discussing in this essay how fast fashion focused culture fueled by influencer virality is driving personal style down and overconsumption up.
It’s fascinating how the fashion industry has been shaped by trends and statements throughout the years. From the long-time lovers of fashion who have followed trends and made them a permanent part of their wardrobe to the evolving nature of fashion in the digital age, there’s a lot to explore. The shift towards trends that not only align with existing aesthetics but also become the defining element of personal style is an intriguing phenomenon. Social media has played a significant role in popularizing these trends, often driven by influencer virality.
The impact of fast fashion-focused culture on personal style and overconsumption is a thought-provoking topic. It raises questions about the intersection of influencer culture, consumer behavior, and the sustainability of fashion trends. As we delve into this subject, we’ll uncover the complexities of how these factors interconnect and influence the fashion landscape.
The evolution of fashion trends and their influence on individual style is a rich and multifaceted subject. By examining the interplay of social media, influencer trends, and fast fashion, we can gain valuable insights into the contemporary fashion ecosystem.
TRends in fashion throughout history
The fashion world is a reflection of our human desire for community and validation. Throughout history, trends have emerged as a means of expressing solidarity and individuality. From the color palettes and military-inspired structures of women’s fashion during the Great Depression to the emergence of Femme Fatale trends during periods of newfound freedom and rights, fashion has served as a dynamic form of self-expression.
Even in the aggressive realm of Punk Rock, we witnessed the juxtaposition of femininity and rebellion through the popularity of baby doll dresses among 90s kinderwhore Punk Rockers. These trends not only reflect the spirit of the time but also convey a deeper message about our intrinsic need to connect with and be understood by others. In Western societies, our clothing and aesthetics serve as a language through which we communicate with the world, shaping perceptions and connections.
Indeed, the way we present ourselves has been ingrained as a fundamental aspect of how we are perceived. Throughout history, individuals who deviated from traditional norms, especially those with body modifications or who rejected modesty, have often been met with disapproval, particularly from more conservative quarters.
The intertwined nature of fashion, self-expression, and societal perception underscores the intricate relationship between personal presentation and human interaction. This connection between style and societal norms underscores the importance of understanding and embracing diverse forms of expression and individuality.
Keywords:
Trend:
/trend/
noun
- A general direction in which something is developing or changing
- A fashion
verb
- Change or develop in a general direction.
The Social Capitol Of Trends
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“Fashion, as a cornerstone of human culture and expression, holds a significant role in the formation and exchange of social capital. The term social capital encompasses the multifaceted outcomes of our daily interactions, encompassing not only positive but also negative results that may manifest in tangible or intangible forms. From mutual favors, mentorship, and valuable information to the propagation of ideas, potential opportunities, and the contemporary phenomenon of virality, social capital plays a crucial role in our societal landscape.
In the contemporary context, the intertwining of social capital with the realm of fashion further exemplifies the dominance of quantity over quality within our society. The fusion of social capital and fashion trends has been instrumental in bolstering the promotion of trend-based fashion through the prevalence of fast fashion. This convergence has heightened the significance of fashion not only as an individual expression but also as a means of accruing social standing and influence within society.
Within the framework of capitalism, the fashion industry mirrors the prevalence of status and social capital, deeply integrated with the ebb and flow of fashion trends. The digital age has ushered in a new era, defining distinct trends and aesthetics across various social media platforms, ultimately shaping the identity of each platform and its associated influencers. Consequently, this phenomenon has contributed to the proliferation of overconsumption, perpetuated by the aesthetics and trends endorsed by influencers, entwined with the ethos of each platform.
The evolution of aesthetics in the contemporary landscape has shifted from being conduits of personal expression and communication within communities to emblems of conformity devoid of individuality. This shift accentuates the role of aesthetics as agents signaling one’s status, beliefs, lifestyle, and even sexuality rather than fostering genuine and diverse forms of self-expression.
Central to fashion theory is the interpretation of the messages embedded within designs, styles, and aesthetic choices. The intricate interplay between the societal perceptions of appearance and the construction of social capital underscores the significance of fashion in shaping communal narratives and individual identities. This is particularly evident in discussions revolving around modesty and the interplay between appearance and perception.
Therefore, in examining our patterns of fashion consumption, it is imperative to delve into the underlying messages that individuals seek to convey through their sartorial and aesthetic choices, elucidating the profound role of social capital within contemporary fashion. The intricacies of communication and expression embedded within fashion choices reflect the multifaceted nature of social capital within Western society, underscoring its pervasive influence on contemporary fashion narratives and individual expressions.”
Keywords:
Social Capital
noun
- The networks of relationships among people who live and work in a particular society, enabling that society to function effectively.
Researchers have been able to identify three primary forms of social capital.
- Bonding the form of social capital created within a social group with common interests and goals. D9 Organizations are a great example of this on HBCU campuses.
- Linking creates ties across groups, specifically spanning across different socioeconomic groups. This particular type of social capital has long been associated with the ability of one’s chances of increased social mobility.
- Bridging much like linking, is creating social capital amongst groups. When done right, individuals within two groups find common interests and goals then coming together to achieve them. A good example of this would be a Neighborhood Watch teaming up with their local sheriff department to ensure a safer neighborhood.
Certainly! Let’s delve further into the influence of quiet luxury and similar trends on social capital within the fashion realm. Despite the reluctance of many to acknowledge it, there is a discernible presence of social capital intertwined with such aesthetics. This is evidenced by individuals displaying a profound understanding of their desired aesthetic goals, even if it means overlooking their socioeconomic constraints. The inclination of individuals, particularly those below the poverty line, to allocate a significant portion of their limited resources to fashion items from platforms like SHEIN and other similar sites in an effort to emulate the elite is a striking demonstration of the impact of this phenomenon. Furthermore, the utilization of terms with deep roots in elitist culture, such as “classy” or “old money,” by fashion analysts when describing quiet luxury and related aesthetics reinforces the association with social capital.
When informed critiques of the excessive consumption promoted by influencer culture and unnecessary aesthetics emerge, individuals raising these concerns are often accused of being classist. However, it is imperative to explore this notion further. Is it truly an act of elitism to advocate against overconsumption, particularly through fast fashion, which facilitates the indulgence in a perceived elite lifestyle while disregarding the adverse impact on the workers, often subjected to unsafe conditions such as foreign child labor? The aspiration to align oneself with a particular socioeconomic class through the acquisition of mass-produced, imitation luxury items, in a misguided attempt to gain social capital, not only showcases a lack of understanding of true elitist practices but also guarantees a denial of the social capital being pursued.
Moreover, the influence of social capital is evident in discussions surrounding the standards of aesthetic appearance, whether within social media or local communities. The periodic resurgence of debates on appropriate attire and grooming for personal events, such as birthday dinners, underscores the impact of social acceptance on individual aesthetic choices. These stringent, internet-based norms often compel individuals to conform to prevailing trends and expectations, thereby compromising authentic self-expression in favor of acquiring social capital within their desired social circles. Consequently, this perpetuates a cycle where individuals are inclined to adhere to external standards rather than establishing their unique mode of self-expression through their attire.
In conclusion, the pervasive influence of social capital within the fashion industry exerts considerable pressure on individuals to conform to predetermined aesthetic standards, often at the expense of genuine self-expression and individuality. These dynamics deserve thoughtful consideration as we strive to cultivate environments that facilitate authentic and diverse modes of personal expression within the realm of fashion.
WHAT IS PERSONAL STYLE?
Now we will delve into the fascinating concept of personal style, as I am planning to explore this topic further by sharing insights into my own personal style journey and how I have cultivated and strengthened it over time. Personal style encompasses much more than just clothing and outward appearance. It reflects a deeper aspect of who we are and how we express ourselves to the world around us. When we examine the definition of personal style, we uncover its profound implications and the manner in which it extends into various facets of society. In the dynamic realm of fashion, style has consistently served as a means to convey one’s lifestyle, age, and social status to others. It is a language without words, a silent yet powerful communicator of individuality and identity. Your style acts as a bridge connecting your inner self with the external world, essentially serving as the cover of your life’s narrative. As we embark on this exploration of personal style, we will unravel the intricate threads that interlace it with our daily experiences and interactions, recognizing its significance as a visual representation of our unique story.
Even when you think back to childhood, when your parents began letting you pick out your own clothes especially for picture days or special events, you had a clear idea of what you were trying to say to everyone with how you wanted to look. If you are honest with yourself, this also led you to imagine a particular level of attention and treatment in the garments. It’s fascinating to reflect on how our early experiences with fashion can shape our understanding of self-expression and the significance of presentation. The act of selecting our attire from a young age can serve as a formative moment in our journey of self-discovery and understanding personal style preferences. This process can also spark an awareness of how our outward appearance can influence the way we are perceived by others and the treatment we receive. It’s a profound realization to recognize how even the simplest choices in clothing can carry with them a message or expectation, whether consciously or subconsciously.
As the world of fashion continues to evolve, it’s evident that the incessant stream of trends has led to a substantial shift. What was once an exciting exploration of personal style has transformed into a relentless cycle of trend adoption. This perpetual pursuit of the latest fads has gradually given way to a fundamental overhaul of wardrobes, rather than the seamless integration of trends into one’s everyday attire.
This phenomenon has had a significant impact on individuals’ closets, as they become inundated with items that were once trendy or in vogue. These pieces were often acquired to fulfill a desire for validation within the social sphere, thus gaining recognition as someone with a keen sense of style. However, this behavior can inadvertently fuel a compulsive shopping habit, leading to financial strain as individuals strive to maintain their appearance in line with societal expectations.
The frequency at which new trends emerge necessitates a heightened consumption rate, ultimately resulting in the accumulation of an excessive amount of clothing. This culture of constant consumption not only places a financial burden on the average person but also perpetuates a cycle of mindless acquisition, contributing to the prevalence of shopping addiction within society. The pressure to constantly keep pace with evolving trends has created an environment wherein individuals feel compelled to spend beyond their means, all in an effort to maintain a facade of stylishness.
In conclusion, the evolution of fashion trends has inadvertently fostered a culture of excessive consumption and materialism. It’s essential for individuals to reflect on their purchasing habits and prioritize mindful consumption over the relentless pursuit of fleeting trends, fostering a more sustainable and conscientious approach to personal style.
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