you can't fit your personality into an airport tray

Introduction

In the era of rapid content consumption, Generation Z is seeking a cheat sheet for personal style—something they can readily adopt or purchase without significant investment. With the fashion industry increasingly capitalizing on viral trends, the idea of personal style is often misrepresented as an easily attainable, purchasable trait rather than a nuanced reflection of one's individuality and history.

The Problem with "Cheat Sheet" Personal Style

The current fashion landscape is characterized by platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where influencers showcase trends that go viral overnight. Instead of exploring their own unique style, many Gen Z consumers are conditioned to buy into trends that promise personality through just a few key items. This superficial approach leads to a disingenuous representation of personal style, encouraging consumers to feel that they can simply buy their way into an identity.

For example, the "flatlay" trend, popular on social media, idealizes the presentation of personal items as a reflection of one's personality. However, this often leads to a focus on aesthetics rather than authenticity. Many users mimic this trend, turning their curated flatlays into shoppable content, which ultimately detracts from genuine self-expression.

Similarly, the "loot drop" concept invites users to showcase all the items they would hypothetically carry, which is rarely realistic. Rather than expressing a person's daily life, these showcases encourage the idealized notion that one's personality can be compactly represented in a curated array of products.

The Manufactured Aesthetic

A notable way this trend manifests is through the glorification of "lived-in" clothing, popularized by icons like Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen. Instead of wearing items until they naturally develop character and wear, some consumers resort to artificially distressing their clothes and bags to fit this aesthetic. This presents a troubling narrative that true personality can be fabricated or manufactured rather than organically cultivated over time.

Furthermore, aesthetics like the "messy girl" trend have emerged, which claim to celebrate imperfection. However, this "authenticity" is often staged and meticulously arranged, reinforcing the idea that consumers must conform to an aesthetic even if they want to appear nonchalant or unpolished.

The Impacts of Online Discourse

This collective trend towards a curated, unrealistic portrayal of style can engender feelings of inadequacy among viewers. The highly aestheticized content creates a false comparison between these idealized lifestyles and the viewers' realities. Many forget that behind the immaculate presentation is often a great deal of curation and planning—leading to moments that are clearly not spontaneous or real.

It's essential to differentiate between engaging with art and engaging with one's reality. While many creators argue that this content is just a form of artistic expression, it becomes crucial to acknowledge the unintended consequences of presenting an overly polished version of oneself as if it were authentic.

Cultivating Genuine Personal Style

For those struggling to cultivate their personal style amidst these influences, the first step is to analyze what you appreciate in the few items you love. Ask yourself questions about the colors, fits, and aesthetics that resonate with you. This self-reflection helps in understanding your preferences and moving away from a solely trend-based wardrobe.

Utilizing platforms like Pinterest offers another avenue for exploration. By reviewing the visuals that draw your attention, you can identify patterns in your style inclinations.

Additionally, consider engaging with physical stores to experience clothing firsthand. Trying on various styles can lead to genuine discoveries about your preferences in terms of materials, cuts, and colors. Documenting these observations can aid in creating a personalized approach to building a wardrobe you love.

Remember, cultivating personal style is a journey, not a destination. The trends and styles may temporarily captivate attention, but the true essence of individuality is rooted in authenticity.

Keywords

Personal Style
Generation Z
TikTok
Flatlay Trend
Loot Drop
Aesthetic
Manufactured Aesthetic
Authenticity
Journey

FAQ

What is the "flatlay" trend on TikTok?

The flatlay trend involves arranging personal items in an aesthetically pleasing way to showcase one's personality. It emphasizes visual presentation over genuine self-expression.

How can I cultivate my personal style?

Start by analyzing why you are drawn to certain items in your wardrobe. Use tools like Pinterest to note styles and colors that resonate with you. Also, physically try on clothes in stores to discover your preferences.

Why is the "messy girl" aesthetic problematic?

While it aims to celebrate imperfections, the "messy girl" aesthetic is often staged and relies on curation, which makes it disingenuous and potentially reinforces unrealistic beauty standards.

Social media creates a highly aestheticized version of reality that can make individuals feel inadequate when comparing their lives to curated content. It promotes the idea that personality can be purchased rather than developed over time.