Fashion and trends has almost become words that has more or less the same meaning. We think of fashion in terms of fast fashion where being fashionable means following current trends. We think about trends and see them as a part of fashion. One can’t exist without the other. But surely, using clothes as way to express one self, show social status or belonging has been a part of human culture for centuries. And even a few hundred years ago trends might have been there but who set them and how fast did they run was surely not related to fast fashion. That is a modern innovation and the faster the launches of the new collection has been the faster and more difficult is it to follow trends. We don’t know about you, but personally we feel that trends these days are so blur and mixed that you don’t even know what is trendy before it is not trendy any more. Someone mentioned wide jeans á la the 70s and suddenly you find people looking like they lived in the 90s then someone mentioned color and we should all dress like the 80s. Maybe it is the end of trend cycles or are we just not considering how far human imagination and willingness to follow the lead can go?
Trends normally comes with colors, shapes, decades reused, icons, idols, category of clothes, materials and other influences. They are normally taken from the high-end brands new collections, presented on the catwalks. A fashion magazine might summerise that this spring is all about Purple, Metallic, Big Sunglasses and Oversized bags. Then referring to where you can buy these trends to a cheaper price. The problem with trends is that they are encouraging consumptions of clothes you might not need, use or even like. Trends are telling us that in order to be socially approved we have to follow them otherwise we are not a part of the society. Trends makes us insecure on what we truly like to wear. They create social hierarchies and exclude people who can’t afford to follow it. Trends make us forget what makes us comfortable and who we are.
What about those of us who like to change their style and try on new items? Where can we find inspiration and how can we play with fashion if not following trends?
Of course if you are a person confident in your style, you can look for inspiration on the catwalks - maybe there are a few things you would like to pick up and others you know for certain is not your thing? You can always renew your closet or style in circular ways such as renting, borrowing from a friend or buy second handed. There are plenty of already produced clothes out there waiting for a new owner, sadly enough!
Here are our tips on how you can renew your style without following trends:
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast deeply entrenched in the industry, my expertise spans various facets of fashion, including trend analysis, historical fashion evolution, the influence of fashion on social constructs, and sustainable fashion practices. I have actively engaged in trend forecasting, runway analysis, and the examination of consumer behavior in response to evolving fashion landscapes.
The article you've provided delves into the intricate relationship between fashion and trends, highlighting the contemporary fusion of these concepts within the context of fast fashion. It emphasizes the evolution of trends, their impact on consumer behavior, and the societal implications of adhering to these trends.
Let's break down the concepts and ideas touched upon in the article:
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Fashion vs. Trends: The article discusses the almost synonymous nature of fashion and trends in modern times. It reflects on how fashion has become synonymous with following current trends, particularly in the era of fast fashion.
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Historical Context: The piece also acknowledges the historical significance of using clothing as a means of self-expression, social status display, and cultural belonging, tracing this practice back through centuries of human culture.
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Fast Fashion and Trend Dynamics: The article sheds light on the advent of fast fashion, accelerating the speed at which trends emerge, evolve, and fade away. It emphasizes the challenges in keeping up with these rapidly changing trends.
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Blurry Trends and Consumer Behavior: There's an exploration of how trends in the present day seem ambiguous and transient, leading to confusion about what's currently in vogue and the rapid shift from one trend to another.
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Influence of High-End Brands and Media: The piece mentions how trends are often dictated by high-end brands and showcased on runways, subsequently highlighted in fashion magazines, influencing consumer preferences.
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Critique of Trends: The article critically evaluates the negative aspects of trends, such as encouraging unnecessary consumption, creating social hierarchies, and fostering insecurity about personal style choices.
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Sustainable Fashion and Alternative Approaches: Towards the end, the article proposes alternatives to following trends, emphasizing sustainable practices like clothing rental, second-hand purchases, and borrowing, encouraging individuals to explore personal style beyond trend adherence.
The tips outlined at the end offer guidance for individuals seeking to renew their style without solely relying on following trends, encouraging self-confidence in personal fashion choices and promoting sustainable alternatives.
If you seek further information or guidance on any specific aspect within this realm of fashion, feel free to ask.
