With social media having such an impact on all things in contemporary society, SHU students have taken fashion inspiration (and fashion turn-offs) from their favorite apps to scroll.
Source: Ally Fabbo, Photo Editor and Graphics Editor
Source: Ally Fabbo, Photo Editor and Graphics Editor
Jessica Romano, a class of 2024 alumna and former President of the Fashion Club, said that social media allows people to feel inspired by what their favorite influencers are wearing.
“If someone follows a high fashion influencer, those outfits they are styling will soon have an influence on mainstream media and everyday people. Social media allows for instant access to trends and how to style them,” said Romano.
Romano also said that on the contrary, social media trends can turn people away from certain articles of clothing if they feel they are “too trendy.”
“I think people who dress trendy enjoy their clothing, but the apprehension comes when they like an article of clothing and they choose not to wear it because it would not be considered trendy,” said Romano.
With social media promoting fast-moving trends, Romano believes it is easy for people to get caught up in purchasing new items every season, instead of creating a timeless wardrobe that can be worn for long periods of time.
“There is pressure from social media to have a disposable wardrobe instead of an evolving one. Trends move so fast that there should no longer be a period where one purges their closet every season,” she said. “Items should be able to work together cohesively so you can join a trend without having to go out and purchase something new. I think there has been an influx of influencers encouraging styling advice of your current wardrobe instead of racking up credit card debt.”
Freshman Delianah Wolf said that platforms such as TikTok serve as a place for inspiration for not just clothing but for accessory and cosmetic choices as well. With trends constantly put on display on social media, Wolf says it is easy to take inspiration and incorporate it into her own personal style.
“Social media definitely has a big impact on my fashion sense and fashion choices. When it comes to hairstyles, shoes, and nail inspiration, TikTok is always my first place to look,” said Wolf. “A lot of creators and influencers use their platform just for fashion and to show off their style. Not only this but new trends and what people are wearing all over the world are always being broadcasted on social media.”
With social media serving as a place for people to broadcast their own styles, Wolf believes it allows people to feel more comfortable with showing off what they like to wear.
“I think social media has made fashion more inclusive because now all types of people with different fashion senses share their style, which can influence people to come out of their shells and wear what they want,” said Wolf.
Junior Kara Cooney, vice president of fashion club, predicts social media will change fashion in the future because it will become a mainstream way to purchase things as there is easy access to online shopping through these platforms.
“I think social media pressures people to keep up with fashion trends because trends are so fast, and it’s concerning,” said Cooney.
Students who are interested in fashion may be interested in the Fashion Club at Sacred Heart, which can be found on Instagram at @fashionclub_shu.
