The fashion and style world has changed a lot in the last twenty years, and mind-blowingly so in the last ten. Here’s what I think is stellar about this changing industry.
- The emphasis on INDIVIDUALISM and the true rebirth of personal style is empowering. Evolve, reinvent, juxtapose and remix the melting pot of today’s fashion your way, because there is no one way to look stylish. Almost anything goes if you wear it with conviction, comfort, confidence and verve.
- Trends are no longer seasonal and fads no longer exist. To some extent trends are becoming harder to define, and at some point they will be irrelevant. This creates a meaningful platform for fashion and style freedom.
- The shifting goal posts of conventional figure flattery are liberating, versatile, and creative. Conventionally flattering outfit proportions are not the only way to look and feel fab. On the contrary. Outfits that defy conventional figure flattery are equally stylish, and often edgier and more creative. It’s ALL good.
- Along with the celebration of individualism, is the celebration of the diversity of body type and the so-called golden mean of beauty. More and more retail assortments are carrying extended sizes. An awareness of gender fluidity is there. Models aren’t all extremely tall, thin, one skin tone, one age, and with one set of regular features. Of course, there is room for improvement, but the industry is a lot more diverse than it used to be, which is a step in the right direction.
- The variety, practicality, privacy and convenience of a growing online shopping world cannot be beat. There are extended size curves and colours. There are no sales staff if you prefer to bypass them. You can avoid traffic, crowds, bad weather, and public dressing rooms. It’s an ideal way to shop if you’re physically not up to browsing city stores. And it’s fun to see boxes arrive on your doorstep.
- Lots of free shipping in the US, and I know we’re lucky that way.
- The casualization of dress codes might be cause to lament if you enjoy dressing up, but the emphasis on outfit comfort and practicality to complement our extremely busy lives is a GOOD thing. Remember that the INDIVIDUALISM trend can take you back to dressing up in whichever way you want to.
- The movement to a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry is remarkable and meaningful. Although these questions are extremely complicated with no easy solutions, everyone can do their bit for the planet and our environment. Decide what ethical and sustainable fashion means to you, and run with it.
- The emergence and ongoing presence of engaged social fashion and style communities like YLF make the world a smaller, more supportive and friendly place.
- The ability to continue having fun with fashion at any age.
What would you add to my list?
