Social media has led to the rise of many trends which popularize everyday items, highlight an aesthetic or funky makeup ideas. Clothing and makeup trends started on social media in the early 2000s on platforms such as Tumblr and MySpace and have moved onto the well-known platforms of Instagram and TikTok today.
Popular aesthetic trends have evolved like vintage, old money and coquette. Following these aesthetic trends could include dressing in certain clothing, doing makeup a specific way or even redecorating a space.
“I could say that I’m somewhat inspired by dark academia,” FHS junior Alice Xie said. “I don’t actually get clothes from it, but generally I try to dress like that when I can.”
Along with these aesthetic trends come makeup trends such as graphic eyeliner, soap brows and copying celebrity makeup looks. Content creators contribute the most to trends by showcasing what they are wearing, how they are doing their makeup and testing out products.
Companies use content creators to widen their audience and showcase their products. Some companies label items as limited edition which gives people a sense of fear of missing out, or FOMO, making them want to buy this item before it becomes unavailable.
One of the biggest trends on social media platforms lately has been Stanley Cups. Starting in 2019, the cup became popular for its large size and ability to keep drinks both cold and hot for hours.
Recently a Stanley and Starbucks collaboration cup came out. It was deemed limited edition and videos were posted online of people getting into physical fights over these pink cups. Resellers are now trying to sell them on platforms like eBay for drastically high prices.
“I think people have different opinions on what the trend means and then it just becomes like senseless arguing in the comment section,” Xie said. “It’s sort of stupid because when you look back on it, it doesn’t actually mean anything.”
Social media trends will continue to show how companies will go to drastic measures to grab people’s attention and make a profit. They also show that content creators have a massive influence on what trends people follow.
