Are microtrends making mass throwaway consumerism the new cool?

Every time one logs on to the internet, we’re greeted by a feed replete with the latest micro trend, a brand new aesthetic the Internet dictates a must-try or a fashion staple dubbed a must-have this season.

From the mob wife aesthetic to coquette-core, trying to keep up has our hands full, and honestly, even our wardrobes.

This begs the question, are we a generation of overconsumers? With sustainable fashion making waves across the globe and thrifting on the rise, we still find ourselves gravitating to cop this season’s latest new obsession. There’s no harm in wanting to try out a new look or testing out a new product, but our obsession comes at a cost and it's high time we reflect on the rationale that goes into a purchase. We live in a world where acquiring the latest skincare serum or blush is at our fingertips, yet unable to satisfy our insatiable appetite for the latest big thing.

Like their namesake, microtrends are short-lived trends that see a month-long spike and die down just as fast. In a hyperconsumerist era of influencing and constantly being influenced on social media, it is undoubtedly hard to always have your guard up but it’s a good idea to pivot towards mindful consumption—and it’s definitely possible.

Invest in beauty staples that promise longevity (within their expiry date) and deliver impeccable results, so you can streamline your routine and avoid unnecessary clutter with a multitude of products. Consider skincare essentials that are designed to last and cater to your unique skin type. Embrace the philosophy of less is more by choosing sustainable, conscious brands offering cruelty-free and clean products. This mindful approach not only enhances your beauty regimen but also supports a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

For those who love luxury handbags, bookmark Sanktum, India’s first luxury handbag rental subscription-based platform. Experience luxury without straining your budget and ace your fashion game while being sustainable and saving room in your closet. Their vision is to make luxury fashion attainable for a larger community of women. For those who love luxury handbags, bookmark Sanktum, India’s first luxury handbag rental subscription-based platform. Experience luxury without straining your budget and ace your fashion game while being sustainable and saving room in your closet. Their vision is to make luxury fashion attainable for a larger community of women. 

For weddings or extravagant gatherings, turn to rent out ensembles per occasion, which in all honesty otherwise one seldom ends up repeating. Saritoria is the first global platform to buy and sell pre-loved South Asian luxury couture. The online e-store Saritoria offers the conscious consumer an incredible opportunity to buy smarter, sell more, and wear more of all the biggest South Asian designers. Brownie points for thorough background checks so you only rent originals from these platforms! https://www.saritoria.com/

Differentiating between needs and wants shouldn’t just be a passing fad—it’s a mindset shift. So, here’s the verdict—being an intentional consumer isn’t necessarily easy, but it’s worth it. It’s about making informed choices and bookmarking brands that align with our values while being mindful of our impact on the world surrounding us. 

Lead Image Credits: Pexels

Also Read: Why we think the circular fashion trend is only getting started

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