I was driving through the Norfolk countryside when I had the brainwave to write a blog post about keeping up with trends. I’ve considered increasing my social media presence for months, particularly on Instagram and TikTok. But, while I enjoy consuming content on the platforms in moderation, I had a fleeting fear about the trends that dominate their algorithms and being able to adopt them quickly enough to reach my desired audience.
As I contemplated whether creating an Instagram or TikTok account was worth it, it led me to question, is keeping up with trends worth it?
Why do people keep up with trends?
It depends on the context. But, referring to trends in the round, it can often come down to building connections and creating a common ground with others, whether that be from a business launch that’s bucking an industry trend in the market, an Adanola jumper that your favourite influencer has just purchased, or an Instagram Reel template that your friends are copying and sharing.
Less positively, it can also be triggered by a fear of missing out (the devil that’s also known as FOMO), creating urgency in keeping up with trends. Staying relevant might be driven by a longing for validation and acceptance from your peers, for example, at school. It might serve as a barometer of social status as an adult to showcase a perfectly renovated home or corporate career, further fuelled by the likes and followers that such content generates.
Keeping up with trends can be deep-rooted. But, I think it’s safe to say that the majority of us have followed a trend. It’s near-impossible not to as, truthfully, they surround us. From digital billboards with flashing images of the latest cars to High Street clothes that are influenced by what’s on the runway, trends are everywhere and can be adopted unknowingly. Only recently, I was having dinner with my friends, looking through old photos of our university days and reminiscing about the skater dress era…
Is it important to follow trends?
I understand the desire and personal importance of keeping up with trends that relate to your interests. If you’re a fashion influencer, keeping up with trends on fashion drops would be more important to you than reading new book releases, buying the latest technology or following marketing industry trends. So, establishing your reason for following a trend is crucial to ensure that it’s followed healthily.
Personally, I would always prefer a simple and classic jumper over a branded hoodie that’s trending, especially because on my journey of spending less money on consumerism. But, a trending song can often pique my interest on the radio and encourage a discussion with my fiance, which is important for our connection, and a trending blogging practice can help me to improve my blog and grow my sisterhood, which is important for my passion.
However, following the latest trends for the sake of following trends is where it can become unhealthy, especially if your projected outcome isn’t in alignment with your true interests. If you are spending money to fit an image or social status, for example, it will become a never-ending race to the finish line that’s bound to expel your energy and leave you feeling deflated.
How to follow trends healthily
Spending your time and money on what you truly want, rather than what others want, will help you to live by your true purpose, beliefs and values – this is crucial for living intentionally. While I’m still learning, I’ve come a long way with following trends on my intentional living journey. In the physical world, I think before I buy something and I only follow the trends that I know align with me. I need to remember that the same applies to my online presence and I’m in control of what I put out into the world.
Before you follow a trend, pause and question if it’s in alignment with who you are – only then will you know if keeping up with it is worth it.
I would love to hear if you’ve been keeping up with trends and if so, what they are, in the comments or my inbox.
I never follow trend. I prefer to create my own style. Not all trend suits me. Call me a fashion terrorist? Hahaha… I’m totally unapologetic about it. Hehehe ^_^
That’s so refreshing to hear, Fadima! Go you. ✨
This post is very thoughtful! I agree that it’s important to follow trends that match who we are, not just to fit in.
I’m so glad you liked it, Doris!
I’m not someone who follows trends much anymore. It’s costly, it’s not great for the climate and sometimes it’s a waste of money. As you say, it’s better to invest in what you really want rather than what others are buying x
Lucy | http://www.lucymary.co.uk
Thanks for your comment, Lucy. You’re absolutely right about the climate element – I dread to think how many old trends have ended up in landfill!
I have a love hate relationship with trends. On the one hand they can be fun. I like seeing what people do with trends. But on the other hand it can be exhausting. And can get confusing when trying to define your personal style. It is a lot of trail and error for sure.
Allie of
http://www.allienyc.com
I don’t really follow trends because you can be tempted to buy something you don’t really need or do something you don’t really want to do. If a trend does catch my eye, I’m like you where I will take the time to figure out if I really want to spend my money or time on the trend.
I find that keeping up with trends on social media can be challenging at times. Sometimes I’m unable to make a video for a few days due to living my daily life, so I do miss out when trends are at their peak and I do the videos later.
Most people (myself included sometimes) feel more valued when my content gets more views, likes, comments, shares etc. It’s quite sad that we base our worth of this. I’ve now learnt that I want people who actually enjoy my content and engage with it, instead of simply having more followers for the sake of it.
With trend in regards to physical items, I don’t buy the latest fashion or decorative things for each season. I won’t buy a new Halloween or Christmas blanket unless mine has been ruined for some reason. I buy clothes from Sainsburys and Tesco because I like the brand, I don’t feel the need to shop at expensive places. One rule I leant is if you’re still thinking about it after 48 hours, then it might be a good investment.
Thank you for this post, it definitely gives you something to think about!
Kim | http://www.sincerelykimberly.com
That’s a powerful reminder! It’s so important to take a step back and reflect on whether a trend truly resonates with our values and identity. By doing so, we can make more meaningful choices and avoid chasing fleeting fads that don’t serve us. Thanks for sharing this insightful perspective!
Such a thoughtful read! I totally relate to the struggle of keeping up with trends, especially when they feel more like a race than a fun thing to try. It’s so refreshing to think about following what truly resonates with us instead. Have definitely been trying to do the same lately! <3
Lenne | http://www.lennezulkiflly.com
That’s a thoughtful question! Keeping up with trends can help you stay relevant and connect with a wider audience, but it depends on your goals. If you’re creating content for fun or personal expression, trends aren’t essential. However, if your goal is to grow and engage an audience, platforms like Instagram or TikTok can be powerful tools. The key is to strike a balance—follow trends that align with your vision but stay authentic to yourself. Do you feel trends might help amplify your message, or do they feel like extra noise?