By Jay’Mi Vazquez
Managing Editor
Various examples of influencers showcasing TikTok fashion trends.
In recent years, TikTok has emerged as a dominant force in shaping fashion trends.
Whether it be every content creator’s infatuation with Adidas Sambas or Timberland boots with denim shorts, the trends and influences are inevitable.
However, there is growing concern that the TikTok fashion phenomenon is detrimental to the broader culture of fashion.
Some argue that TikTok’s fast-paced content creates an environment of immediacy and disposability.
Unlike “traditional” fashion cycles, which are marked by seasons and trends developed over months or years, TikTok trends emerge overnight and instantly become popular.
This turnover encourages a brief approach to style. The result is a relentless churn of trends that prioritizes short-term virality over long-term fashion integrity.
TikTok has shifted the sense of individuality and creativity previously seen within the culture years prior. Trending outfits are frequently defined by their viral potential rather than their originality or craftsmanship.
Influencers and fashion brands often promote trends that drive sales rather than those that contribute to something that can have an everlasting impact on people.
This commercialism can overshadow smaller independent designers who may not have the resources to compete with the marketing power of larger brands.
Business economics major Sean Cremins, a junior and clothing brand designer of Denim Endings said he believes TikTok has completely changed the fashion culture in the long run.
“TikTok has oversaturated and commercialized the small-scale fashion industry,” Cremins said. “This basically ruined the “if you know, you know” aspect of fashion. Due to this, there is a lack of originality and a lot of people making clothes with little to no passion.”
The “if you know, you know” aspect of fashion refers to the “insider understanding” and appreciation of certain styles, brands, or trends that are not immediately apparent to the general public.
This involves a level of niche knowledge that only those deeply immersed in fashion circles or subcultures would fully grasp.
Fashion trends on TikTok are a double-edged sword.
While it is considered negative to the culture for the reasons above, some people view the platforms’ impact on the fashion culture differently.
Health science major Dean Cruz, a senior, said he believes TikTok trends are needed to help people navigate their own style.
“It exposes people to more styles and allows people to discover clothes they like and dislike,” Cruz said. “For example, I really liked when I saw someone using a tie as a belt.”
Interdisciplinary studies major Sarah Khan, a senior, said that she also views TikTok as a platform that inspires people to find things they like and find unique.
“I think TikTok makes looking at fashion all the more exciting and new,” Khan said. “I think TikTok is opening up a lot of western fashion trends to the more global scene.”
Undeniably, the platform offers a diverse range of content that can inspire people to try new things, fostering a sense of personal growth and self-expression.
TikTok fashion trends can transform how individuals perceive and engage with their style, which leads to a more adventurous and positive approach to personal fashion senses.
Overall, TikTok fashion trends will continue to be a factor within the community and its impact will continue to be viewed positively and negatively by people within the culture.
VOL. 64- ISSUE 2
