Monday, October 07, 2024

How to Be a Fashion Leader

Have you noticed that trends tend to come and go in what feels like a matter of days? With today's fast fashion on the rise, it is challenging to fully embrace trends until they become a fad and someone says, "It's time to move on from brat summer." A way out of this fast-paced fashion cycle is to delve into your style and become a fashion leader.

What is a fashion leader? Think of someone who has earned the title of 'fashion icon'; someone who has been able to influence a group of people and have a lasting impact on even the simplest outfits. Princess Diana is still credited for her effortless 'running errands' look; with an easy crewneck and a pair of biker shorts, she was able to show that even someone with princess status can pull off a quick but put-together look. Another example is Hailey Bieber, who kickstarted a new acrylic nail trend this past summer: blueberry milk nails, just almond-shaped nails painted a light blue.

Fashion leaders are known today as the current 'It' girls, usually the ones you'll find on everyone's 2025 vision board. How do I become a fashion leader? The first and most obvious step is developing a strong interest in fashion. You need to be able to embrace different styles before you begin to dive into your creativity. Get out of the house and visit places showing various styles: your school, a local cafĂ©, the mall, or even walking down a busy street – what is everyone wearing? Is there a particular clothing item or style you've seen more than once?

This leads to your next step: networking and updating on fashion trends. Do your studying and pay attention; the fashion cycle is still respected; if you see a pattern, follow it. Ballet flats and sportswear are in; maybe it's time to lean into both in the same outfit! Ultimately, you need to find out what you're comfortable in - then get out of it. The reason you feel safe in this particular style is most likely because everyone else is wearing it, and therefore, there's no room for judgment.

However, to be a fashion leader, you must welcome the stares you will receive. You cannot lead fashion when your only concern is what others will say. What now? Being a fashion leader is not a one-dimensional concept you are expected to follow daily; there is nothing wrong with delving into your favourite trends or dressing in something you saw someone else wear.

Moving forward with this new generation of fashion, we are beginning to see a different kind of fashion cycle; as trends come and go quickly, it leads to chaos, and no specific piece defines the 2024 fashion year. This may be a sign to begin researching previous fads from years we have yet to revisit. You are starting with a blank slate since the goal is to commence a trend, so have fun with it and experiment!

You never know what you could discover about yourself once you begin to follow your own rules, not sit in the comfort of scrolling through your Instagram feed. Create a new definition of how to lead fashion, walk confidently, and honour the judgement you will inevitably receive; every designer knows exactly how that feels.

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