What’s not trending this season

What’s trendy this winter? What’s decidedly un-trendy? Lately, especially in the last two years, I have noticed a decline in mainstream trends appearing across a community, even on campus. Instead, smaller subcultures are on the rise and people are choosing a different aesthetic than in the past, where one aesthetic was considered acceptable. However, even with the splitting of society into more obscure subcultures, there remains a sharp eye for subcultures that break out of the realm of accepted style.

Earlier this year, there was a wave of hate for VSCO girls. I hear children criticizing so-called “VSCO girls” all the time; HydroFlasks are now grounds for a joke. “Save the turtles!” is repeated upon seeing a VSCO girl. So what, if anything, is ever really “un-trendy”? In my opinion, the only thing “un-trendy” in today’s world is critiquing other people’s senses of style or hobbies. Some of the people who wear the most unconventional clothing are the coolest and most on-trend, or better yet, the people who create the trend itself.

Instead of worrying about what’s trendy right now, I think it’s better to think about what you want to represent for yourself as a person through your aesthetic. In addition, as consumers, it’s important to remember that what we buy matters. Fast fashion, like clothing from Forever 21 and H&M, contribute not only to unethical working conditions for those who produce the clothing, but also the mentality that clothing is a disposable and ultimately seasonal purchase. Instead, why not purchase clothing that lasts and actually suits your personal style? Thrifting is trendy for a reason, and not just for the cute vintage clothing – it helps our environment and makes your style unique. I think we should all take some advice from VSCO girls instead of hating on them, because let’s face it – reusable straws and HydroFlasks aside, their mindset is on-trend. And that’s all we should be worrying about.

Caroline King - Staff Writer