“Chocolate brown is the new black!” “Maximalism is back!” These and similar headlines flood our feeds every few weeks, telling us which fashion trends to follow next. But do we really need to follow them, or is personal style what actually matters?
Disclaimer first, so you don’t come for us: I’m not saying that we’re any better. Let’s be real: we all have enough clothes in our wardrobe, so the only reason we keep on buying is because of consumerism and our need to stay on-trend. But I do think that it’s important to stay aware of this and use our prefrontal cortex during shopping sprees.
Not Every Trend Is Made for You
Trends are all fun and games, but - and I truly hope this isn’t big news for anyone - not every trend fits every one, be it because of our complexion, body type or personal style. And while we’re on the topic: can we please talk about how boring the fashion and beauty spheres have gotten over the past years? Again, I’m only moderately trashing us all, but it seems as if individuality has found its grave somewhere between clean girl aesthetics and perfect monochrome looks. The saddest part of it is that fashion, as well as beauty, are actually the spheres to express yourself.
To me, fashion has never been about clothes per sé, but more so a reflection of the social, political and economic state of the world and of our personal beliefs. I know that a lot of people scream around that they don’t care about clothes, but whether you like it or not, fashion is the only industry on this planet that every single human being takes an active role in, because we’re all getting dressed in the morning. Granted, the extent of brain power, time and possibilities you invest into that process changes from person to person - but at the end, you’re still putting on something.
Cerulean And Other Fashion Trends & Wisdom Nuggets
In celebration of the upcoming release of ‘The Devis Wears Prada 2’, I’ll let Miranda Priestly herself explain this concept, using the example of cerulean.
In other words: fashion can serve as an armour against the world. Like it or not, but it’s the first thing that people see when you come into a room and, until they get to talk to you, that’s all they have to base their initial perception of you onto. And that’s why personal style matters.
You can’t decide what people will think of you, but you can decide how you want to be perceived. That’s why subcultures have always relied so heavily on fashion and beauty as a form of expression.
Think Goths, Skaters, Emos, Punks or even Cosplayers - before you hear them speak, before you know what music they listen to or what they believe in, you already see them.
Their style signals belonging, identity and attitude. Not because we’re superficial (discussion for another time, okay?), but because visuals are immediate giveways.
Fashion doesn’t need words, and neither does beauty. They are the words.
Not Everyone Needs to Wear Orange
Fashion trends, on the other hand side, should only be used as emphasizers, aka supporters of your style, but not your whole identity. They change too frequently for it to be sustainable in terms of wardrobe base and too generic to fit everyone.
Controversial take: but not, everyone looks equally good in orange; some people feel more comfortable in a tailored blazer than they do in an oversized on; and there’s people who’d much rather stick to their leggings instead of wide-legged trousers. And that’s fine! You’re allowed to have your preferences, and shop and live accordingly.
How to Build a Personal Style That Lasts
So no, there’s no need for you to follow every trend ever presented to you on the runways or seen on your feed. And frankly, you’re not supposed to, if you ask us. The goal isn’t to keep up, but to stand out in a way that feels true to you. Build a capsule wardrobe that reflects who you are, rely on pieces that make you feel like the most confident version of yourself, and let trends play a supporting role. Because at the end of the day, style isn’t about getting it “right” according to someone else - it’s about making it yours.
