Fashion trends are everywhere, from runaways to social media feeds to the halls of our school. With new styles emerging constantly, it’s hard to ignore the influence fashion has on our lives. Why do we follow these trends, and what does it say about us? Let’s examine why fashion trends matter, how they evolve, and what they mean for our school.
Following fashion trends isn’t just about clothes; it’s about belonging, expressing ourselves, and feeling connected to something bigger. We often feel like we’re part of a community when we follow a trend. Wearing the latest styles can be exciting, giving us confidence and creativity. Many students at Seven Hills use fashion to express their personalities; a mix of colors, patterns, and styles helps us stand out or fit in, depending on our mood. There’s also a lot of pressure that comes with it. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok show the latest trends and influencers who make them seem essential. Senior Mason Griffin said, “I would say social media influences people’s fashion decisions.” When everyone’s wearing a specific type of sneaker, jacket, or brand, it’s easy to feel like we need those same things to fit in.
Fashion trends allow people to show how they are and experiment with different looks. Some students might find a particular trend, like vintage clothing brands such as Tommy Hilfiger or Ralph Lauren or a more comfortable fit clothing brand such as Nike or Lululemon, really speaks to their personality. Senior Annie KaTuska says, “I see a lot of brands like Lululemon, Nike, and Adidas.” Trying new styles can be a fun, creative way to push ourselves out of our comfort zones. When students notice others wearing similar styles, it creates a sense of connection and belonging. Friends often share tips on where to find the latest looks, swap clothes, or even shop together. Discussing trends and style choices fosters friendships, helping students feel more connected to their school community.
Keeping up with fashion trends can be challenging when trends change quickly. Every season, there’s something new that seems like a must-have. Trying to keep up can lead to stress, especially if items are too expensive or hard to find. Some students may feel left out if they can’t afford certain items, and the pressure to wear the “right” brands can make fashion feel less about personal choice and more about competition.
Recently, a shift has begun to happen in the fashion world. Many people are starting to think about the impact of fashion on the environment. Fast fashion, which produces trendy clothes quickly and cheaply, is known for creating waste and pollution. Clothes made for a single season or trend often end up discarded after only a few wears, which harms the environment. More students know these issues and are now choosing brands that prioritize sustainability. Thrifting, upcycling, and supporting eco-friendly brands are becoming new “trends” in themselves. Many students want their fashion choices to reflect values like environmental responsibility and fair labor practices, making fashion not just about style but also about ethics.
In conclusion, fashion trends will always influence what we wear and how we feel about ourselves. But the best style comes from confidence and being true to ourselves. Instead of feeling pressured to keep up with every trend, we can choose the one that resonates with us or mix and match to create our unique looks.
