The effect that influencers have on society to create viral trends, that everyone hears and talks about, is undoubtedly powerful. However, there is gap between the discussion about these trends of phenomena, and their realization. In other words, many of these videos create a buzz, but do not actually ‘catch’ in society and ‘real life’ beyond the internet. Now, will these trends trickle into society, and begin to create a true influence in 5-10 years time? Perhaps; the possibility is there. Buyers drive the market; so the buzz or the viral obsession over items has the power to influence the fashion industry. However, there is definitely a large gap between what creates great videos and viral content, and ‘real life;’ peoples everyday habits, behaviors, fashion, and etc. But, is it truly a hard line? In every case, some of these trends actually do carry into culture. Fashion Network spoke about a few phenomena that have created quite a buzz, but have not influenced real life people, and the reasons why.
Corsets
Corsets have indeed been known to be one of the most restrictive parts about women’s fashion, and this is why they have been eliminated from fashion. However, as Fashion Network says, “The 19th century London high society seen in the “Bridgerton” series, as well as the retro aesthetics of the Queen Elizabeth II biopic “The Crown,” have given rise to some surprising trends in recent months, bringing back to the forefront historical pieces that no one would have imagined wearing in 2022.” Although the corset has gotten some buzz on the red carpet and in high couture, women aren’t wearing corsets into work every day; understandably.
But, corsets or the illusion of corsets; like inner ribbing to create a firm bodice within a garment; are beginning to slowly make their way into fashion. Why? Because they are an interesting design to look at. Corsets can juxtapose a large, unshapely garment into a fitted garment. The contrast is satirical and interesting. Are women wearing them, unironically? Absolutely not. But in design, they represent a fun concept to play with.
Adam Sandler
This trend is an unusual one; the viral concept of dressing like paparazzi’d Adam Sandler. What does that entail? Basically dressing like an average Dad. It truly does not seem possible that this trend would take. Societally, are women going to revert to wearing oversized T-shirts and basketball shorts? No. But, a school in America had an entire spirit day dedicated towards dressing like Adam Sandler. So these strange stylistic observations are in part noticed by and acted out by the youth groups.
Mom Jeans
Mom jeans; or the jeans that are high waisted, and straight legged, were a strange, and hated obsession. However, there is something to be said about the fashion phenomenon; trends work in a 20 year cycle. Every 20 years, what was considered not stylish becomes stylish again; trends revive and flip flop. True to form; Mom jeans can be spotted everywhere. This trend does not make sense, however, it’s possible that women decided that they didn’t want to wear tight fitting jeans anymore, and decided to take a new stylistic venture.
The reality of these trends is strange, and in an amalgamous way they take hold on culture. As Fashion Network says; “These micro-trends keep coming thick and fast in various shapes and forms, but ultimately they only really seem suitable — and intended — for the kind of world frequented by stars and celebrities, as has been the case for many years. Or, of course, for social media, these new virtual worlds where everything seems possible.”