Personal style vs. fashion trends: Which is better?

Jacob (Fashion Trends)

Fashion trends have a significant impact on the fashion industry and society as a whole. The trends that start on the runways of Paris and New York lead to the clothing we all wear. They offer inspiration to people who seek to express themselves through fashion. These emerging trends are the starting point for personal style as an inspiration to create unique and individual looks. 

Trends are what drive sales and keeps the industry relevant, as 'high fashion brands develop statement pieces that celebrities, influencers and public figures wear.' These fashions, then, have a broader cultural impact, as they 'become desirable by consumers who admire these public figures' and want to emulate them. Whether positive or negative, fashion trends—especially those embraced in Hollywood productions, which we viewers consume—influence attitudes and perceptions about beauty, identity, and self-expression in individuals. 

This 'trickle-down' effect of what quickly becomes fashionable affects what we find in our local department store. The accepted version of fashion further forms the 'Zeitgeist' of the day, becoming the 'defining mood or spirit of a specific era in history as displayed by the beliefs and ideas of that time.' In this way, fashion belongs to society as a collective whole rather than to any one person.

Fashion trends have a global impact and connect people worldwide with a shared love for fashion. Even social media has been a prominent purveyor of making new trends wide-reaching. The internet has allowed people to access the latest in fashion, regardless of where they live. Social media drives 'influence and engagement. It has made it easy now for fashion designers to design clothing that is meant to reflect the diversity of the world.'

Rob (Personal Style)

Dressing is an important part of life, and what you wear tells much about your personality. As a result, having a personal style unique to your tastes and preferences is preferable to relying on fashion trends or what you see looks good on others. Having a personal style allows someone to express themselves in their own unique way and present themselves how they want others to perceive them. Putting together your own outfits can even help a person better develop or fine-tune their personality, allowing them to make a statement that sets them apart from the crowd.

Additionally, having your own distinct style builds confidence in public and can be a confidence boost in how you interact with others. It helps you overcome the need for external validation by wearing what resonates with you and makes you feel the most like yourself rather than what you think others want to see. This helps people embrace themselves by seeing their flaws as creative outlets rather than hindrances. 

Having a personal style also builds creativity through trial and error, which consequently helps in other aspects of your life. You're then able to adapt to stressful situations and improvise more effectively. It allows you to make due with what you have rather than feel bad about what you don't. 

Overall, having a personal style helps you build confidence and character, enabling you to contribute better to society. As Mike Sasso said, 'Originality is the best form of rebellion,' and there's no better way to be different than to showcase your own style.