It’s The Way She Wears it

Author: Elle Pitts

First impressions matter, and whether we like it or not, what we wear plays a big role in how we’re perceived. Clothes are more than just fabric. They reflect who we are, what we value and how we see ourselves.

While some dismiss fashion as superficial, it’s actually one of the most powerful forms of nonverbal communication. The way we dress can project confidence, creativity, professionalism or even rebellion. A sharp blazer exudes authority, while bold colors can signal a playful spirit. It’s not just about the clothes themselves, it’s how you wear them. Do you mix classic and trendy pieces? Do you dress like a CEO despite having $50 in your bank account? These everyday choices tell a story.

Beyond first impressions, fashion is deeply personal. It’s a way to express identity, emotions and culture through what we wear. Whether it’s the comfort of a favorite hoodie, the thrill of a daring trend, or the nostalgia of vintage pieces, our clothes connect to our experiences.

For Generation Z, fashion seems to be shifting from individuality to uniformity. Social media dictates what’s “cool and trendy,” and as a result, it seems as though young people are choosing to blend in rather than stand out.

The rise of fast fashion and influencer culture has created an endless cycle of micro trends on TikTok and Instagram. Items like corset tops, coconut girl aesthetics, patchwork jeans and platform loafers surge in popularity for a few months before quickly becoming “cheugy”, a slang word used to describe something that’s slightly outdated or trying too hard to be trendy; but in a way that’s no longer cool.

According to Denver-based stylist Keisha, the problem with micro trends is that they don’t allow enough time for a person to genuinely discover their personal style. Instead, people are constantly chasing the next big thing.

While someone on Instagram Reels is just discovering the ‘Mob wife aesthetic,’ over on TikTok folks have graduated to their love for skinny jeans because their favorite influencer told them to,” she said.

The result? People feel pressured to spend excessive amounts of money on the latest items from the perceived “it girl” brand of the month, simply because it’s dominating their algorithm. Micro-trends, Keisha argues, strip away the autonomy and creative freedom that come with embracing one’s personal style. They eliminate the joy of exploring your own wardrobe and understanding what textures, shapes and colors you’re drawn to while making mindful decisions about what to wear.

Mandy Lee recognized this issue and created the 75 Hard Style Challenge. The only “75 hard” many fashion lovers could commit to. This challenge encouraged people to shop exclusively from their wardrobes for 75 days. The goal was to develop a deeper understanding of the pieces that truly resonate and to identify gaps that need filling, ultimately promoting smart and tactical shopping. This challenge, as Keisha suggests, is an excellent way for anyone looking to build a more intentional and timeless wardrobe.

Another useful tool for refining personal style is Allison Bornstein’s Three Word Method, which Keisha herself used to conceptualize her upcoming wedding. This method involves choosing three words that encapsulate your desired style, serving as a guiding framework when putting together outfits. This approach helps create a cohesive and authentic style that isn’t swayed by fleeting trends.

Items like oversized sweatshirts, plain sneakers and neutral basics look effortlessly wearable however, they also lack the personality that fashion once thrived on. The obsession with minimalism and basics, while practical, often strips away the individuality that makes personal style memorable.

What makes personal style more timeless, then? Investing in high-quality basics, embracing vintage pieces and finding a color palette that compliments your features can all help. Classic items like well-fitted blazers, leather jackets, tailored trousers and neutral-toned shoes rarely go out of style. Accessories play a crucial role too like timeless watches, simple gold jewelry and quality leather bags that add personality without being overly trend-driven. Moreover, focusing on fit and fabric rather than logo or hype can make outfits look more polished and thoughtful. In essence, a timeless style is built on a foundation of versatility, quality and authenticity.

What happened to originality? Why is bold, unique fashion fading? Some argue that comfort is to blame. After all, leggings, hoodies and sneakers are easy, practical and require little thought. But should comfort come at the cost of personality? Dressing well doesn’t mean sacrificing ease; it means curating a wardrobe that reflects who you are, not just what’s trending on TikTok.

This isn’t just about clothing. It’s about what we’re willing to express. Are we showing the world who we truly are, or simply following trends to fit in?

In the past, fashion was a tool for rebellion, self-expression and creativity. Subcultures like punk, grunge and even Y2K fashion emerged as statements of identity, setting people apart rather than blending them together. Yet today, many young women seem to be hiding behind sameness or playing it safe rather than using fashion as a way to stand out.

If Gen Z continues down this path, they risk losing the opportunity to leave their own mark on fashion history. The beauty of personal style is that it tells a story, one that goes beyond trends and speaks to who you are.

The real question is: are they truly comfortable in their uniform, or just afraid to stand out?