Everywhere you look, there is seemingly a new lifestyle trend telling you how to live. The influx of these aesthetics can be overwhelming and hinder people from exploring their individuality. Instead of trying to conform to a certain aesthetic, take inspiration and personalize it to make it your own.
Modern-day subcultures are often called “aesthetics” and vary from established cultures like emo and hippie to newer hyper-niche trends like “clean girl” or “pilates princess.” Subcultures are nothing new and a part of the natural cycle of trends, but with the rise of social media and the internet, these aesthetics have a wider reach than ever before.
The desire for belonging is a human instinct, and aesthetics offer comfort and identity. People gravitate towards community, and college students, experiencing a transitional period, are especially susceptible. Finding yourself and exploring your identity is a large part of the college journey. Limiting yourself to a certain niche can hinder the discovery of your authentic passions.
“I think the one (reason to follow trends) is finding comfort and familiarity,” said Sarah Tang, Plan II and mathematics freshman. “When you see someone with the same aesthetic as you, it naturally leads to an icebreaker if you’re in a room full of strangers.”
This shared aesthetic can create a sense of community and help start conversations in social situations, but it can also reinforce the idea that we must adhere to a certain image to be accepted. While there is value in finding connections through shared experiences, it is disingenuous to adopt an aesthetic that might not truly represent who we are. We are simply fitting ourselves into a mold that feels safer but less authentic.
Moreover, social media is omnipresent wherever you are, and college students are more exposed than ever to the latest trends. This constant cycle of new trends can make it hard to distinguish personal style from what is trending.
“I think Instagram is probably one of … the biggest comparison tools that people use,” said Sophie Law, Plan II and international relations freshman. “You’re always seeing people post pictures of them doing cool things, and you might feel a need to do the same.”
The carefully curated lives of influencers can create a sense of inadequacy and disillusion people into thinking they are not living the “right” lifestyle. Students should remember that subcultures or aesthetics are meant to inspire us, not define us. Trends are temporary and ever-changing, while our individuality is permanent and intrinsic. Students’ personal styles should reflect their own interests and not be dictated by social media or the latest trend.
Embracing individuality requires finding a balance and not focusing on how you are perceived. Trends and aesthetics are fun to explore, but they shouldn’t require sacrifices in your individuality.
Xu is a government freshman from Fort Worth, Texas.
