Don’t let influencers build your wardrobe: Beware of tasteless TikTok trends

Génesis Ventura Reporter

While sorting through my closet, I found so many trendy clothing items, and I wondered why I bought them. As a college student, I have noticed that the media has influenced what I shop for. One of the main platforms that is powerfully influential when it comes to fashion trends is Tiktok.

In an article in Industry Fashion, Sophie Smith explains, “Fashion trends dominate TikTok’s fashion content. These appear on a user’s FYP (for you page) and can feature anything from a clothing haul to styling inspiration. TikTok provides an accessible platform for creators, which is why these fashion trends and the products included often go viral.”

One of the main trends Smith said is seen on TikTok is called “TikTok made me buy it.” Because these paid advertisements can increase both brand exposure and revenue, influencer relationships are a popular marketing approach for fashion firms on the network.

Many of the influencers have paid partnerships with brands to promote their fashion pieces. Because some of these in- fluencers are paid to promote fashion pieces, the consumer is not completely sure if the influencer genuinely likes the fashion piece that is being promoted. Consumers often purchase trendy pieces that may be worn for the time the clothing item or accessory is popular. One of the trendy pieces that I was influenced to buy and now regret spending money on are the patchwork block jeans that were very trendy at the beginning of the pandemic.

Although it may seem counterintuitive, avoiding trends can actually improve your style, according to an article in Society19 by Madeline Murphy. She explains, “By not following every internet trend, you can also experiment with your own fashion creativity. Instead of seeing a photo of a feathery matching set on Instagram and purchasing a replication, you can actively create your own outfit. Getting fashion inspiration from others is natural, but not following trends may force you to experiment and challenge yourself.”

Murphy emphasizes that by their very nature, trends don’t last. The patterns that we see today may return decades from now, but eventually, they will be considered outdated. Though being influenced by the media is bound to happen sometimes, not letting those trends sway your style and who you are is very important. I noticed that trying to follow fashion trends impacted how I view myself in clothes. I did not like what I was wearing because it was not me;, it was what the media was influencing me to wear. Once I established my own style, I noticed that I had a more creative outlook toward the

“The patterns that we see today may return decades from now, but eventually, they will be considered outdated.” (Photos sourced from: UnSplash)

Dear Kevin: What are some good books to read that will help me succeed in college and beyond?

Dear Reader:

What a lovely question. Here are my top picks for books that will help you through your college experience. Although some of these books are in the self-help category, I think it is important to remind the reader that a wide range of genres are the key to broadening one’s understanding of themselves and others. Partaking in a variety of critically acclaimed literature will stretch the mind and worldview and ultimately contribute to one’s success. However, I digress. As promised, here is my compilation of a few favorites.

“The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey This is an incredibly helpful must-read that will teach you crucial life skills. Not only does the book give practical and applicable principles for professional life, it also delves into the personal habits to maintain a healthy mindset.

“Life Beyond College: Everything They Didn’t Teach You About Your First 10 Years After Graduation” by Kevin Coyne This delightfully informative book is crammed with wisdom for the floundering young adult. This book helps new graduates avoid common mistakes in financial, legal and personal areas of their lives.

“Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World” by Cal Newport In an age when social media has taken over, this book is a guide for those who wish to reclaim their peace.

“The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper Do not scoff at the wisdom in children’s books. Reader’s Digest lists the timeless lessons in this classic as “positivity, hard work, helping others, self-confidence and perseverance,” all of which are essential elements to succeeding in college and beyond.

“Prayer: Does It Make Any Difference?” by Philip Yancey This book may not seem like an obvious choice for a self help book list, but I think it warrants a place here. Yancey thoughtfully addresses so many of the doubts connected with prayer. As someone who struggled with those doubts himself, he is able to shed a refreshing perspective on prayer and the difference it makes in our lives.

When in doubt, follow the “rule of fours,” a reading plan developed by Joseph Luzzi, a professor at Bard College. Four days a week, 45 minutes a day, four different books.

1. Your favorite genre of litera ture.

2. Contemporary literature.

3. Nonfiction.

4. A classic literary work.