Reclaiming Your Style: The Power of "De-Influencing" in the World of Fashion Consumerism

In a world obsessed with trends and fast fashion, it's easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of consumerism. Social media platforms flooded with influencers showcasing the latest styles and products do not help and often keep consumerism top of mind. Young women, in particular, are often bombarded with the message that to be fashionable means to constantly buy new clothes. To contrast this movement in a world full of so much capitalist noise, there's a growing movement called "de-influencing" that's challenging this norm. Let’s explore this new concept of de-influencing in the context of fashion consumerism, and how it can empower you to take control of your personal style.

Romanticizing Consumerism

Before we dive into de-influencing we need to understand the general appeal of fashion consumerism. Fashion is not just about clothing it's a way for people to express themselves and display creativity and confidence. We love the thrill of finding that perfect outfit, the joy of being complimented, and the sense of belonging that comes from fitting in with the latest trends. However, overconsumption can lead to waste, damage to the environment, a constant desire for more, and a lack of self confidence. Not only is it bad for the environment but just like anything else, shopping can become an addiction. Purchasing something in person or online gives you a rush of serotonin and adrenaline that goes away as soon as you bring the item home. Online shopping makes this effect worse since it separates the shopper from the items and makes it feel like you are hardly even spending real money. Companies play into this by allowing you to save your card information or split up payments so you don’t have to enter your card information and it feels as if you aren’t even purchasing something.

Influencer Culture

Unlike any generation before, advertising has become more personal and directed with the use of influencers. Influencers advertise products in order to make money and it is beneficial to companies since it reaches niche audiences. Many influencers, especially related to fashion and beauty, are targeted towards young women. This leads women to being bombarded from all content they consume with ads that may not even seem like ads on the surface.

Fast Fashion

Another driving force behind fashion consumerism is fast fashion. Brands like Zara, H&M, and Forever 21 have made it possible for people to afford trendy clothing at low prices. However, fast fashion is notorious for its negative environmental and ethical impact. The industry's rapid production and disposal of garments contribute to pollution, exploitation of labor, and the depletion of natural resources. Supporting fast fashion supports inhumane working conditions and often child labor. Alternatives to supporting fast fashion include thrifting and purchasing from sustainable brands. With trends changing so quickly, thrifting and purchasing sustainably are not options for staying in style since they can’t produce trends at the rate that fast fashion brands can.

De-Influencing

In response to the drawbacks of fashion consumerism, the concept of "de-influencing" has emerged. De-influencing is all about stepping back from the consumer-driven fashion world and reevaluating your relationship with clothing. It's about regaining control over your personal style and wardrobe. Keeping up with trends is not possible at the rate they change and purchasing from fast fashion brands to keep up is not a sustainable option for the planet. The only solution is to separate yourself from it entirely! Developing your own style allows your wardrobe to be sustainable and your clothing items will last way longer than any fast fashion pieces would.

How to start de-influencing

Ready to get started? Here are some ways to jump in and some things to keep in mind…

Sustainable Wardrobe: One of the key principles of de-influencing is building a sustainable wardrobe. This means investing in timeless pieces based around your personal style rather than what is currently in style. This may take some time and effort to discover but as you find more and more things you like it will come to you more easily. Looking into sustainable brands will help introduce you to trends that are modern yet timeless. These brands will also be of higher quality and last you longer and while they may cost more, if it is a timeless piece you can wear it until it falls apart!

Ways to find your personal style: Social Media Detox: Take time away from the influencers and see what you pick out to wear for yourself!

Vintage Fashion: Look into old trends and see how people in the past have styled different items. Try out the old styles you enjoy and maybe add a modern twist.

Picking Your Influences: Once you have stepped away from social media and influencers and have taken some time to let your mind find what it likes, start looking at influencers again. This fresh look will allow you to like an influencer to the style they have that you naturally gravitate towards rather than how trendy it is. Try to identify the specific style things you enjoy from influencer outfits and try it out yourself.

Mindful Shopping: While shopping, think about what trends an item reflects, is it trendy now? Has it been worn in other decades? Is it being worn by the influencers that reflect your personal style? How will it fit into my current wardrobe? These questions ensure the item will fit your style and will last you longer!

Fashion consumerism has its allure, but it's essential to balance your love for style with a sense of responsibility toward the environment and ethical practices. De-influencing is a movement that empowers young women to regain control over their personal style, build sustainable wardrobes, and take control of their finances by being more mindful of money spent on fashion and trends. By focusing on sustainable pieces, finding your personal style, and being mindful of your fashion influences, you can take charge of your fashion choices and express yourself more! You have the power to redefine fashion and make choices that reflect your values and individuality.