Are Micro-Trends Worth Investing In?
To scroll on a social networking platform or a fashion-related media site today without catching a glimpse of micro-trends today is almost unheard of. Whether it be the “clean girl” aesthetic, “mob wife” aesthetic, or “coquette-core” aesthetic, it’s becoming increasingly difficult to navigate macro-trends vs. micro-trends and determining how long the life cycle will be. Fashion is known to be fast-paced and cyclical, but is it worth it to invest in these niche clothing aesthetics?
Universal fashion macro-trends have gotten somewhat lost in translation due to the uprising of micro-trends, but it’s imperative that the distinction between the two is clear. Micro trends tend to be adopted on a smaller scale by a niche type of consumer, but aren’t as widely recognized and have a shorter life cycle. Whereas macro trends are generally adopted on a more universal scale by consumers and are proven to have a longer life cycle.
The appeal that lies within micro-trends is undoubtedly the concept of experimentation and embodying a sense of community as well; they’re no longer just consolidated to one garment but encapsulate a theme. Like-minded innovators don’t just adopt garments and accessories in-line with a particular aesthetic or look, but also implement it into other areas of their lives – which is widely seen amongst influencers and content creators.
Influencers and content creators are historically the driving force behind the creation of micro-trend related aesthetics, which gradually trickles up to certain areas of the fashion industry – from retail stores to high-fashion runways. Aesthetics such as these distinguish them from competition in other creators on social networking platforms and can be a great source of income and increase notoriety. But this isn’t the case for the average consumer and the general public.
Investing in trends, micro- or macro-, can be enjoyable for consumers, but it seems as though many have become desensitized as to how this adds up over time. Investing in the latest fashion trends on a regular basis can be quite expensive depending on the person and can contribute to the sometimes harmful cycle of consumerism. Above all else, it’s essential to value your primary wardrobe as opposed to rapidly jumping on the latest trend; a trend which is likely to die out and be replaced by something else in the matter of a week or even less than that at times.
Popularity of micro-trends can also lead to over-saturation with many wearing idioms of the same look, which may defeat the purpose of fashion and developing your own personal style. So, while being experimental in terms of dress is essential to one’s personal style identity, one shouldn’t necessarily rely on micro trends or trends in general to do so. A balance between the two allows you to curate the most discerning, meticulous wardrobe possible.
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