Microtrends surge in popularity

A fashion micro-trend is a specific fashion piece, clothing item, or aesthetic that is fleeting. These trends could fall out of relevancy in as quickly as a few days or a few months. 

Trends come and go, but one thing is certain: the surge in popularity of micro-trends took off during the Covid-19 pandemic. While we were all sitting inside due to the world being on lockdown, we utilized our phones to find anything to cure boredom. One main influence of this micro-trend surge is TikTok. 

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Micro-trends improve the finances of companies that sell these items quickly, such as brands like Shein, Romwe, and Zaful. These online shops, deemed as trendy and affordable, will list hot items that will disappear in a matter of weeks. 

Now, what are some micro-trends? Examples include sweater vests, crochet tops, and some printed pants. Although these may still be rocked by plenty of people, their surge in popularity has definitely simmered down since they arrived. 

Categorial "micro-trend styles" examples include, but are not limited to, Maximalist, Olsencore, preppy academia, Tumblr famous, and "that girl." These styles and items still hold some popularity and grip, but nevertheless, their demand has lowered since. 

Jordan Bell, 11 said that micro-trends can be detrimental to the environment and cause more harm than we know. He believes that micro-trends aren't worth spending money on, but if you really like the item, you're always welcome to make that purchase.  

"It won't be a trend for too long," Jordan said, explaining that, second to their environmental impact, these trends can lead to a follower mentality. 

Understandably, those new to this idea may have questions: How to stay away? How not fall for them every time? And sympathy is warranted; we’re all just doing our best to enhance our styles in trendy ways, but how can we do this more sustainably? 

Purchasing micro-trends can often mean supporting fast fashion businesses, such as previously mentioned companies like Shein, Romwe, and Zaful. All are big contributors to the fast fashion industry—in which products that are mass-produced by companies for inexpensive prices, with environmental and social pitfalls. micro-trends are accelerating fast fashion even faster. When micro-trends pop up, these establishments run with them.

Although it may be tempting to purchase products from these businesses because of their cheap prices, consider why they are cheap, and reconsider the demand for these products at the moment. micro-trend influences are not completely our fault, especially when considering who is benefiting and profiting from these practices.