Cottagecore, mob wife, coastal cowgirl, coquette, glazed-doughnut nails, strawberry makeup – these are just glimpses into the myriad of viral aesthetics that have dominated social media over the past year. From the initial wave of excitement to a noticeable shift in sentiment, the rise and fall of trends have captivated our attention. But what lies beneath these transient phenomena?
Enter the realm of trend culture – a domain where the allure of novelty intertwines with the psychology of human behavior. Trends, as Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines them, signify prevailing tendencies or inclinations. While trends have long been a part of societal fabric, their cyclical nature has accelerated in recent times.
We tapped into the insights of psychologists to dissect the anatomy of trends. How do trends emerge, and why do they hold such sway over us?
Exploring the Genesis of Trends
Trends germinate from a simple seed – an idea that captures the imagination of a few, gradually gaining momentum until it permeates the collective consciousness. According to psychologist Scott Lyons, PsyD, trends blossom as individuals or small groups garner attention, fostering a cascade effect that propels them into the spotlight.
Yet, alongside mainstream trends, a surge in micro trends has emerged. Dr. Sanam Hafeez, PsyD, notes the proliferation of niche communities and subcultures, fostered by online platforms, which have carved out spaces for specialized interests and identities.
The Psychology Underlying Trends
Our fascination with trends transcends mere aesthetics – it’s rooted in our innate desire for connection and belonging. Dr. Jenny Yip, PsyD, emphasizes the allure of novelty, which ignites a sense of excitement and curiosity. Participation in trends offers social validation and fosters a sense of community, blending conformity with individuality.
Moreover, the specter of FOMO (fear of missing out) looms large. Dr. Christie Ferrari, PsyD, underscores the potent allure of exclusivity and scarcity, compelling us to partake in trends despite reservations.
The Influence of Social Media
While trends have been a timeless phenomenon, the advent of digital media has revolutionized their propagation. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram have democratized trend culture, amplifying their reach and accelerating their lifecycle.
Dr. Lyons highlights the transformative impact of social media, which has democratized trend culture, democratizing trend culture and facilitating instantaneous connections on a global scale.
The Era of Micro Trends
The proliferation of micro trends has reshaped the landscape of trend culture. While these fleeting fads offer a semblance of exclusivity, their ephemeral nature contributes to trend fatigue.
Dr. Ferrari elucidates the phenomenon of oversaturation, wherein trends lose their novelty rapidly, necessitating constant reinvention.
Dr. Hafeez underscores the challenges posed by the accelerated turnover rate of trends, which renders it arduous for individuals and brands to keep pace.
The Future of Trends
As our collective attention span wanes and the pace of information dissemination accelerates, trends will continue to evolve at breakneck speed.
Dr. Yip poses a poignant question: will the allure of trends ever wane? Until it becomes fashionable to eschew social media, the answer remains elusive.