Some of Isabella’s essential items (Isabella Cantillano-Sanchez)
By Isabella Cantillano-Sanchez
Creativity and individuality have always been concepts at the forefront of my mind as I have cultivated my own personal style. Now, platforms like Instagram and TikTok push microtrends and aesthetics that trend in the algorithm for increasingly short periods of time, something that encourages overconsumption and a capitalistic mindset rather than a creative one. There is also an emphasis on marketability and branding, two words that actively discourage experimentation and true individuality.
The most popular current microtrends such as the “clean girl” aesthetic, the “old-money” aesthetic, and the “quiet luxury” aesthetic are also all overwhelmingly lacking in diversity in how they are represented online. These aesthetics are meant to convey a homogeneous (white, thin, and straight) representation of aspirational wealth. It is difficult to ignore the conservatism inherent in these aesthetics as well as the utilization of personal style to prioritize conveying financial status rather than reflecting the ideals and interests of the wearer. All of this has made me reflect on my own approach to fashion and wonder about the ways others approach it, especially those who are active on social media.
Getting dressed has been a creative outlet for me since childhood, and I have always been incredibly intentional when putting outfits together. Fashion is a way for me to feel closer to what I am passionate about, and what I wear often reflects the media that I am currently consuming. Films, books, and art all heavily influence my personal style. The core of my style has remained unchanged throughout the majority of my life, but I am always discovering new ways to express it. I am certainly not above purchasing from fast fashion brands as I am shopping on a budget, like the majority of people, but I think limiting yourself to a few staple pieces that you can use interchangeably for each season massively cuts down on waste.
I asked Cape Cod Community College students Sarah Bean Kearns and Elissa Gonnella about their approaches to personal style and how, if at all, social media informs it. Kearns describes her style as “neutral, natural tones” and “more of a comfortable style.” Gonnella responded: “I would say that my style depends on the day. Most of the time I’m feeling casual, so I pull on a sweater, black pants, and black boots. If I feel like putting in more effort than that then I will put on one of the outfits I bought after being inspired by social media or other people. For example, in the fall I like wearing things inspired by ‘cottagecore,’ and in the winter I aim for ‘cute librarian with cardigans and glasses.’ When it comes to makeup, I usually go without, and if I’m dressing up I match the makeup to the style: small eyeliner for business casual, big bold colors behind my glasses for ‘librarian,’ and pastels for ‘cottagecore.’”
When I asked if social media influences their personal style Kearns responded, “Yeah, I’m on Pinterest a lot. I definitely have an urge to get better clothes when I see stuff online, but I try to see if there’s stuff I already have to capture that idea.” Gonnella responded: “Social media only influences what I buy when I’m splurging on something fun. Otherwise I prioritize function over form for my clothes.”
