♪ — “TikTok and the problem with fast-fashion”

First of all, yes, I understand that there are other apps, be it Instagram or Pinterest, that can also influence microtrends. But still TikTok's recommendation algorithm and the format of its content is different than others these apps and it's one of the social media that has the greatest influence on this whole problem.

TikTok's influence on fashion and personal style is a matter of serious concern beyond fleeting trends. While clothing has always been a tool for self-expression, hyperconnectivity and the omnipresence of social media platforms like TikTok have added to the transient nature of micro-trends, making normal the way many dress beneath the algorithmic dictate. While the site may have initially offered a forum to discover fashion history and facilitate creativity, the manner in which it has evolved into fast consumption genres, such as "outfit of the day" posts, has spawned a concerning trend for shallow replication at the expense of developing a personal style.

The consequences of this trend are severe. Environmentally, the out-of-control production and discarding of apparel driven by these micro-trends fuel the fast fashion crisis, along with its associated carbon footprint, wasteful utilization of water resources, and the clogging of landfills with prematurely discarded fashion items. At the same time, this kind of consumption binge is regularly underpinned by labor exploitation in the textile industry. But perhaps the most insidious damage lies in undermining individuality; in promoting the uncritical acceptance of whatever the algorithm suggests, an endless cycle of consumerism is fostered, not letting people interact with their own tastes and evolve a style that belongs to them.

Having been presented with this reality, solutions present themselves which seek to defuse this dynamic. One of the necessary pathways involves a process of self-reflection to identify and create one's own personal style, founded upon eclectic sources and interests and not in following blindly the styles of the moment. Likewise, second-hand shopping manifests itself as a valuable alternative, not only because of its economic factor and the possibility of finding unique pieces, but also because it contributes to achieving sustainability through the prolongation of the life cycle of the garments. In a complementary manner, encouraging the sale, donation, or creative recycling of clothing that is not used can significantly resolve the problem of textile waste.

Yet, it is significant to admit that TikTok isn't the only villain in this scenario. This app has been a digital space that has democratized the visualization of all sorts of styles, the most alternative as well as the most classic, being a window to aesthetic diversity. The problem lies mainly with the attitude of the consumer, who, being immersed in a culture of instantaneity and perpetual novelty, falls into a never-ending cycle of consumption, seeking temporary satisfaction in the acquisition of new tendencies without finding personal fulfillment on an individual level with his clothing.

Thanks for reading🩷

(Music: ame furu yoru no mukou (Instrumental) by lamp)