Marissa Elman | Fashion & Photography

Marissa Elman is a lifelong lover of fashion and photography.

How Do Fashion Trends Become Popular?

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Fashion trends are important to everyone, even people who don’t put a lot of thought into fashion. Ask yourself, how many people do you see out in public who are wearing clothes that are not in style? Fashion trends seep into our minds consciously and unconsciously, and even individuals who are not interested in fashion tend to be influenced by what is mainstream. But why do fashion trends become popular?

 

In the past, fashion trends became popular due to the traditional model of originating in the fashion houses, then off to the magazines, and then bought by the consumers. However, now it is the 21st-century, and the Internet is a significant part of our world.

 

Because of the Internet, the way fashion trends become popular comes from more than just the runway. 

 

The Streets

We watch what people wear on the streets, particularly in popular cities like New York and Los Angeles, where people are known to be more fashion-conscious. As we pass one another on the streets, we consciously or unconsciously take in what people are wearing. For example, if you are a woman and see a large number of women carrying large handbags rather than small purses, chances are you’ll purchase a large bag over a small purse. This desire will be assisted by what will be available in stores because stores tend to reflect what we see on the streets.

 

Celebrities

We watch celebrities that we see on the Internet or that we observe on reality TV shows, and we’re influenced by what they wear. For example, arguably the most famous celebrity TV family is The Kardashians. We watch what Kim, Kendall and Kylie Jenner wear. We probably won’t spend as much as they do on an outfit, but stores make it a point to copy these styles at far more affordable prices because designers know that people are influenced by what they see.

 

Fashion Blogs

Another way we follow fashion trends is with the many fashion blogs that appear on the Internet. Following fashion blogs is more of a habit for a fashionista than your average woman. However, fashion blogs are prevalent in the 21st-century, and the most trafficked ones will influence how individuals perceive the latest styles and compose their own wardrobe.

 

Instagram

Social media is prevalent in the 21st-century, especially with the app Instagram. It has at least one billion users. What makes Instagram so conducive to fashion is because it is primarily a visual medium. Users upload their photos for people to view. There are millions of various fashion photos on Instagram that profoundly influence users.

 

Fashion trends become popular when they are easy to create and easy to afford. They are only popular when everyday people can wear them. Fashions exclusively among the very rich are not popular with everyone.

Social Media Sites You Should Use If You’re a Photographer

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With social media increasing online presence and engagement, photographers are able to use social media platforms to build out portfolios, interact with clients and other photographers, and engage with the industry in ways they have previously been unable to. If you’re a photographer, using social media can be a valuable way to extend your brand and find new opportunities for you. Here are some social media sites you should use if you’re a photographer.

 

Instagram

While it may seem an obvious platform, Instagram boasts an influential reputation as a hub for all things photography. As a social media platform, it is formatted to focus on photographs, and users have the ability to like and comment on posts. As a result, Instagram proves useful for branding, as well as networking. Photographers can also link to personal websites on their profiles.

 

Facebook

Perhaps one of the largest social networking sites, Facebook has the potential to reach a global audience. In addition to posting pictures on personal accounts, photographers can also make photography-specific pages to highlight their craft and offer their services. Facebook offers a wide-reaching platform for photographers looking to establish their reputation.

 

Behance

Providing a streamlined and easily navigated site, Behance is an ideal platform to develop a portfolio and begin branding. With a creative community, as well as additional resources—such as job listings, apps, and featured works—Behance offers both exposure and opportunities.

 

Pinterest

Providing organization and simple searching options, Pinterest proves a prominent platform for visual media. With options for business back-linking and the potential to reach wide audiences, Pinterest can provide photographers with a prime platform for branding and gaining exposure.

 

Tumblr

Providing creative freedom, Tumblr provides photographers the opportunity to post their work on an aesthetically streamlined platform. As users have the ability to repost and comment, Tumblr encompasses branding, exposure, networking, and more.

 

500px

500px is the ideal platform for photographers who want to immerse themselves in the photography community. The platform displays works from photographers worldwide, allowing ultimate community exposure and engagement. As a result of this, users are able to connect with photographers and build valuable networks within the industry.

 

Freelancer

For beginning photographers looking to establish a portfolio, Freelancer provides a platform for beginners to access projects. Photographers can use the platform to find jobs to gain experience, build out their portfolio, and establish a presence for themselves. It is also a way for photographers to begin making money off of their services.

 

As social media continues to aid online engagement, photographers can utilize platforms to build out their brand and network. Though there are many options to sift through, beginning with these in mind will help increase your online presence and opportunities as a photographer.