Nowadays, it seems like everyone is trying to tell you how to dress. You’re constantly being exposed to all these different styles, ideas, and even lifestyles that accompany specific clothing, and when you’re trying to grow your wardrobe and explore who you are stylistically, this could either be a blessing or a curse. Like Heidi Klum once said, “Fashion, one day you’re in, the next you’re out,” and with TikTok’s huge rise in popularity and micro-trends taking the world by storm, that phrase is only reigning truer. In this article, I’ll be discussing how social media and fashion influencers have shaped fashion, and how trying to find new ways to update your wardrobe can be a double-edged sword.
We live in a consumer-driven world, where owning certain clothing items and adhering to a specific appearance can grant one a sense of being fashionable and trendy. However, not everyone can afford or find specific looks, and you are made to feel lesser than for not partaking in the specific type of aesthetic you’re setting out to accomplish. Due to this, fast-fashion companies are what most people rely on, as they offer affordability and quick access to the latest trends. This then directly affects most brands that operate on a seasonal cycle as they can’t keep up, or promise the same prices. Even thrifting or second-hand shopping have become trends, resulting in vendors capitalizing on the demand for vintage or unique pieces by reselling thrifted finds at inflated prices. This completely undermines the original point and appeal of thrifting as a sustainable and affordable way to shop.
Aside from that, brands and stylists have now taken to setting up lifestyles that accompany fashion trends. Whether it be the ‘Clean Girl’ or ‘Downtown Girl’ aesthetics, clothing now comes with certain aspects that allow brands not only to sell clothes, but also ways of living, and although this has always been the case, fashion has now become more aspirational than ever before. While this isn't necessarily negative, it can inadvertently perpetuate conformity and create an aspirational atmosphere around fashion, making it more about projecting an image than expressing one's true self. That’s not to say that these aesthetics are inherently bad, or toxic, there’s no harm in taking style inspiration from things you see online. Sometimes, it’s good to have something to help in defining your style, especially if it’s something that resonates with who you are, and it makes you feel confident.
Interestingly, TikTok’s popularity has resulted in many underrepresented communities being able to showcase their styles and has helped many identify a personal style in which they are comfortable. It has also helped boost the popularity of small businesses, making it easier for local brands to get their clothes the recognition and sales they deserve. It has provided brands with the opportunity to grow through short, easy-to-make content that’s easily accessible. It’s also provided many with platforms to share their style inspiration and has even resulted in people being able to build careers and make money off of fashion in a much more attainable way than before.
On the one hand, the quick, constantly changing array of content makes it nearly impossible to ever stay on trend, resulting in millions of ‘inspiration Pinterest boards’ being created, but no actual look ever being kept. On the other hand, it allows for easy access to said fashion trends and helps creators and consumers find a niche or community in which they want to stay. In a world where originality can be elusive, seeking inspiration from online sources, including TikTok, is never unwelcome, especially when finding clothing that you like. However, it also comes with challenges related to affordability, sustainability, and authenticity. So, is TikTok fashion a blessing or a curse? I guess it depends on how you look at it.
Written and Curated by: Daniela Mendoza
Blog Published and Directed by: Natalia Miller
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