By Brinda Patel
Staff Writer
Since 1990, the allure of microtrends has been a prominent staple feature in fashion. Today, this term is commonly referred to as “fast fashion.”
In this new decade, technology and social media have taken the trajectory of trends to new heights. Sometimes, various trends can emerge and get put in the spotlight within a single week.
Let’s be frank, microtrends are the equivalent of fast-food. These speedy trends are exciting at first, but are ultimately frivolous and distasteful.
Each trend provides a chance to experiment and be a small part of fashion history as each cycle unfolds. But at the same time, these never-ending surges not only hinder the creation of a distinctive personal aesthetic but also encourage unwarranted splurges and a dire strain on the environment. This affects everyone at any given price point.
According to Earth.Org, about 92 million tons of textile waste is produced every year. The key “drivers” of the industry’s global pollution impacts are dyeing/finishing at 36%, yarn preparation at 28% and fiber production at 15%.
The emphasis on the quick production and depletion of natural resources is not lost upon. Microtrends only quicken global pollution levels. To address these issues, it’s important to advocate for more sustainable practices that are more affordable to every consumer’s spending range and effectively reduce the harmful consequences of fast fashion. One person’s trend-based purchases are another person’s suffering.
A common reason for this behavior is the overwhelming desire to fit in, commonly portrayed from younger generations today. Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest and other related social media platforms play a significant role in this rising phenomenon. These platforms constantly adjust each user’s algorithm, keeping everyone just a touch away to further feed their need for constant validation. This need for approval is particularly strong in the realm of fashion. The constant exposure to curated and trendy content creates pressure to align with current styles and trends.
The amount of personal style that microtrends can strip away is staggering. This is why many young adults end up dressing similarly just to fit in. Following trends seen online without any hesitation is comparable to putting on different masks every day, hiding who you really are to meet others expectations.
However, once each microtrend passes, people often find themselves confused about their sense of identity. They end up with clothes that no longer reflect their individuality, making them question their own fashion choices.
An interview on NPR between an unidentified person, Alina Selyukh and Mandy Lee dives deeper into how social media speeds up fashion trends and promotes disposable clothing practices. “I think that the problem really lies with the idea that a wardrobe is revolving and, you know, people striving to constantly replace things that may not be on the pulse,” Lee said.
Microtrends, while often seen as fleeting and superficial, offer a positive angle in which one can explore and refine their personal style as they find suitable. The trends encourage consumers to dive deeper into fashion, and simultaneously stay conscious of their individual wardrobe needs and preferences.
The mistakes in micro trends offer very valuable lessons for consumers. By watching when and where these trends fail, whether it’s due to the hype or cheap quality, everyone should make smarter choices and avoid buying into these influential fads. Spend well-earned money on products that have real value, not a fleeting interest.
Understanding where trends go right and wrong also helps spot the green/red flags of future fads. On a broader scale, this awareness helps create a market that truly values both sustainability and authenticity, benefiting every consumer in the long run.
