Micro-Trends Are Worse Than You Think

Micro-trends continue to break the foundations of the fashion industry. Given the whirlwind of rapid buzz and the quickness of social media, these "here today, gone tomorrow" trends take a toll on the industry. In fact, they are worse than you can imagine. Affecting both the designers and the consumers alike. 

What are micro-trends?

A micro-trend is a fast-fashion version of a high-fashion trend. Instead of a trend growing and developing over several seasons, micro-trends pop up and then disappear just as quickly, sometimes within a few weeks or days. Do you remember the miniature handbags that were all the rage for a hot second, or the short-lived moment of the cow print craze? There you go.

A designer's dilemma

Micro-trends are a designer's worst nightmare. After all, fashion design is a craft that requires dedication, time and creativity. Once micro-trends took the stage, designers are being pushed to produce new collections at a frantic pace.  Due to this, not much room is being left for imagination, ultimately forcing designers to substitute creativity for sales.

The artistic expression of craftsmanship is being watered down. A small, independent designer who does not have the manufacturing capacity, as the large fashion houses, is unable to survive in this heat. This sort of dynamic encourages the fast fashion giants whilst simultaneously making it much harder for independent designers to flourish.

Consumer confusion

It's a double-edged sword for consumers, as micro-trends are fueled by the thrill of being " on trend". They promote a disposable fashion culture. Consumers are tempted to buy, wear and discard garments at a frightening rate. Sort of a 'throwaway' mentality, a brutal cycle for budgets, but worse for the environment. With people demanding new clothing all the time it leads to waste, excessive textile production and a massive carbon footprint. Resulting in an overflowing wardrobe that is soon to be "out of fashion".

A collective cry 

Meaningless micro-trends like these do more harm than good. That's why it's necessary to look at fashion more consciously. Quality should matter more than quantity, and designers with a sustainable vision will bring in customers, as they create garments that have a timeless look.

Stepping away from this frenzy will allow fashion to be saved, protected and even purchased in a healthier environment for designers and customers.