Every scroll on social media reveals a new trend, a new micro-influencer or the new standard for being cool. The surge in these short lasting trends that are described as niche or underground, is destroying the meaning of trends. As the length of trends get shorter and shorter, “trend” loses its meaning and we are left with an impossible cycle.
Funnily enough, micro-trends are trending. As we have seen in social media patterns, micro-trends will become smaller in duration and soon everything will be trending. The internet is already overwhelming despite this, but when so many things are trending at once, there is little meaning in the word trend and little motivation to keep up with the craze of it all.
The basis for my belief is that if everything is trending, nothing is trending. It can be compared to the idea that no one can be unique if everyone is trying to be unique: “uniqueness” and “trending” lose their original meaning. It is an impossible fight to not only fit trends, but to be a trendsetter, the one out of many. When we look at all of the things that are currently trending, there is no way to check all of the boxes.
A large contributor to everything micro on social media is fast fashion sites and most notably, TikTok Shop. TikTok Shop has made it easier than ever for users to see a video and buy the promoted product in a few clicks.
In the past, clothing brands would have four main collections per year: winter, spring, summer and fall. Now, brands are dropping new lines every week on TikTok Shop in an attempt to keep up with what is trending and keep consumers happy. So many trends are pushed weekly and many unnecessary products are purchased, leading to more than 34 billion pounds of used textile being thrown out every year in the U.S.
Furthermore, what does this mean for personal style? It is often unknown to consumers. Is something bought for your appeal and style preferences, or is it to fit in and go viral on social media? What may give you confidence in being trendy might also be hindering your ability to find your true, sustainable style. As of this decade, many have been shopping with the expectation that their closet will be upgraded with a new style in the next trend cycle rather than purchasing pieces that contribute to their personal style.
Of course, not all trends are bad. I, personally, am thankful for the downfall of skinny jeans and the fact that baggy jeans seem to be here to stay. Trends can allow for people to find new ideas and styles they never knew existed, bringing a lot of authenticity when it comes to testing out personal style.
However, like many things, trends can be harmful if reacted upon incorrectly. Micro-trends will continue to get shorter and soon there will be little value in keeping up with it all. Additionally, they will continue to push over-consumerism and a harmful image to those who place their self-worth in being on trend.
I believe the solution here is to think sustainably. Look at trends with the knowledge that they will soon pass and remember that it is almost impossible for the average person to be spending thousands on new wardrobes. Dress ethically. Purchase from thrift stores or invest in long-lasting products that will create a closet built for the future of not only your style, but of our planet.
