Disclaimer: While I have no intention of discrediting any specific individuals, events or brands, I will present accurate and complete information to the best of my knowledge in support of and to enhance the argument presented. It is also important to understand that the subjective terms used are not meant to classify every fashion influencer.
LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. – Nowadays, we tend to confuse fashion influencers with fashion icons – where Layla Blue is the new Audrey Hepburn, and Demetra Dias is the new Sherri Hill. In an age of overconsumption and social media, where do we draw the line between finding inspiration online and plain obsession? When did having originality and value in fashion become outdated?
In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Angelina Jolie explained how personal identity in clothing choices is becoming increasingly scarce among an intertwined generation.
Embracing art, fashion and community was never out of the question for Jolie. Instead of building an atelier that amplifies the cult of its founder’s personality, she built a brand based on calling your own shots and on authenticity.
Similarly, in an interview with Vogue Magazine, actress and television producer, Sarah Jessica Parker dove deep into her many phases in fashion from 1987 to today. Although she will forever be remembered for her unique style in “Sex and the City,” the famed fashion icon pays homage to more than just that. With each look, she emphasizes boldness, intuition and thoughtfulness.
“What’s the point of the criticism? We’re all just making an attempt every day to offer ourselves up to another person,” Parker said.
Drawing from my own experiences with shopping, I’ve noticed that many young women, now more than ever, are treating fashion like a sorority they’re desperately hoping to pledge.
Between scrolling through Pinterest and purchasing another pair of Zara kitten heels, how often do we ask ourselves if we truly love what we wear and if the clothes we put on truly represent us?
Unfortunately, with constant videos about the latest fashion trends, tips and tricks, it’s difficult to distinguish what we like versus what our favorite influencer likes. It’s the biggest scam and the cleverest form of advertising, as social media is basically a play tool for individuals who call themselves fashion influencers and big clothing companies.
“Fashion now is buying something because you see your favorite influencer styling it, and not caring if it’s too expensive,” Paige Salg, a junior at Los Alamitos High School, said.
These online endorsers act as if they’re generating authentic outfit ideas, when in reality, they’re attaching us to expensive brands and reinforcing that feeling of never having enough. Fast fashion may be appealing to the overly stimulated eye, but it doesn’t hold any real value.
I’m not saying the promotion of elegant, expensive and environmentally-conscious clothing is what makes a fashion icon; the ability to inspire, collaborate with and build an original community in the ever-evolving industry does – where fame doesn’t undervalue their commitment or overshadow the clothes.
