Beyond the Hype: The Downfalls of Following Trends

In today’s world, many people’s water bottles, backpacks, shoes, and clothes are not chosen by them. School uniforms are not to blame. Nor are controlling parents. Then what is it? Trends. 

What is a trend, and why do they dictate the behavior of so many? The dictionary definition of a trend is “the general direction that something is moving in.” For example, if the majority of a population moves one way, others are likely to follow. The same idea can be seen in fashion. If a successful figure wears crop tops, others are likely to start wearing them as well. People follow trends thinking that they will be recognized as cutting edge, but how cutting is imitation? Trends give people the idea that they can buy social acceptance, which does not work. 

The case with crop tops is a prime example. The wearer will be extremely cold and uncomfortable just to adhere to a fashion style. Many people believe this trend has been getting out of hand, especially for youth. The acceptable age to wear what used to be considered “revealing" has been getting lower and lower. 

Trends not only force you to choose between your likes and “being cool” but can also be dangerous. Remember the Tide Pod trend? What started as a harmless dare turned into an extremely dangerous situation with dire consequences. Fifty people have reported poisoning because of ingesting Tide pods throughout the country. Eight lost their lives. 

Other than products, trends like fad diets and extreme workouts, currently in style, also contribute to diminishing self-esteem and a strong sense of personal identity. These trends are usually unachievable for the average individual. Despite the claims of ease made by the extremely slim influencers showcasing these practices, they often present an unrealistic and unattainable image. 

Trends are often impractical as well. Take the newest water bottle trend, the Stanley. Buyers need to carry it around all day in their hands. The colors are bland and boring. The lid does not stop any spillage. It makes you wonder, why would anyone spend 40 dollars on this? 

At the end of the day, we all need to remember that trends are just a business strategy used to promote a certain company's product. These companies leverage peer pressure and social media to ensure their product is “trending.” Your safety and well-being are their least concern. 

Trends contribute to diminishing the uniqueness of individuals. The best way to be cool is to be yourself. 

Works Cited

Nico, Lisa. “Utah teens take the deadly 'Tide Pod Challenge.'” KUTV, 16 January 2018, https://kutv.com/news/local/utah-teens-taking-the-deadly-tide-pod-challenge. Accessed 8 January 2024.