5 Ways to Find What’s Trending in Fashion (and Become a Fashion Expert!)

Fashion is an ever-evolving world, constantly influenced by global events, celebrity endorsements, cultural shifts, and technological advancements. Staying ahead in this fast-paced industry can be challenging, but by leveraging the right tools and techniques, anyone can spot fashion trends and even predict them. Whether you’re a budding fashionista, a designer, or simply someone with a passion for style, this guide will show you five great ways to become an expert in recognizing fashion trends.

1. Stay Updated with Fashion Blogs and Websites

Explore Renowned Fashion Websites

The internet is brimming with fashion blogs and websites that can offer a daily dose of inspiration and insight. Platforms like Vogue, Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and W Magazine provide in-depth analyses of the latest fashion weeks, celebrity styles, and upcoming trends.

• Vogue: Known as the fashion bible, Vogue covers everything from runway reviews to exclusive interviews with designers.
• Harper’s Bazaar: This platform focuses on luxury fashion, offering insights into high-end markets.
• Elle: A great resource for style tips, beauty secrets, and trend forecasts.

Follow Influential Fashion Bloggers

Fashion bloggers often have a unique perspective and style. Following influential bloggers lets you see how they interpret and forecast trends. Bloggers often partner with brands, showcasing new collections and emerging labels before they become mainstream.

• Chiara Ferragni (The Blonde Salad): Known for setting trends rather than simply following them.
• Aimee Song (Song of Style): Offers a mix of fashion inspiration with home décor and lifestyle tips.
• Bryan Yambao (BryanBoy): Provides a dynamic perspective on contemporary fashion.

2. Utilize Social Media Platforms

Leverage Instagram for Trend Spotting

Instagram is a visual-centric platform and a hotspot for fashion innovation. Search for trending hashtags such as #OOTD (Outfit of the Day), #FashionInspo, or #StreetStyle to see what’s currently floating around in the fashion world.

• Follow Fashion Influencers: Keep an eye on influencers who regularly attend fashion shows and have affiliations with major brands.
• Explore Instagram Stories and Reels: They often provide real-time updates from fashion weeks, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and instant trend feedback.

Discover Trends on TikTok

TikTok is not just about dances or challenges; it’s a rising star in setting fashion trends, especially among Gen Z. The quick, engaging content can showcase how trends are worn in real life.

• Fashion Challenges: Hashtags like #ClosetChallenge or #ThriftFlip can provide insights on creative ways to follow trends.
• Viral Styles: Pay attention to styles and outfits that go viral within days, setting new fashion standards.

3. Attend Fashion Events and Shows

Participate in Fashion Weeks

Fashion weeks in iconic cities like New York, Paris, Milan, and London are meccas of trendsetting. Attending these shows provides firsthand insight into what the world’s top designers are creating and signaling for future seasons.

• Understand Seasonal Trends: Each season’s fashion week content provides a glimpse into upcoming textures, colors, and silhouettes.
• Observe Industry Reactions: How the crowd and media respond can be a strong predictor of what will be a hit.

Explore Local Fashion Events

Local fashion shows offer a grassroots perspective on trends that could emerge globally. They are platforms for new designers and unique cultural fashions.

• Support Emerging Designers: The next big trend could be hiding in a local designer’s collection.
• Interact with Designers and Models: Get insider tips straight from the innovators themselves.

4. Analyze Consumer Behavior

Utilize Fashion Analytics Tools

Fashion is increasingly data-driven. Tools such as Edited, WGSN, or Trendalytics analyze social media patterns, consumer habits, and more to predict what’ll be big.

• Edited: Offers real-time data on what’s selling fast across the fashion industry.
• WGSN: A comprehensive trend forecasting tool focusing on consumer needs.
• Trendalytics: Analyzes visual cues across the web, providing actionable trend insights.

Monitor Market Trends

Be aware of the socio-economic factors that influence consumer buying habits. During different periods, like recessions or economic booms, certain styles become prevalent.

• Check Retail Reports: Understanding what’s selling can often hint at a larger trend.
• Follow Industry News: Platforms like Business of Fashion provide deep dives into global fashion economy trends.

5. Explore Pop Culture and Collaborations

Influence of Celebrity Endorsements

Celebrities often act as fashion icons to their fans. Their adoption of certain styles can make trends popular virtually overnight.

• Keep Up with Celebrity Styles: Red carpet events, music videos, and public appearances are all full of style cues.
• Watch for Brand Collaborations: Brands announcing partnerships with celebrities can signal upcoming popular styles.

Impact of Music and Movies

Pop culture, including music videos and blockbuster movies, strongly influences fashion trends. Iconic films or songs can spark a fashion wave affecting everything from apparel to accessories.

• Analyze Music Videos: Artists often use fashion to express personal brand and creativity.
• Review Movie Costumes: Films set in different eras or imaginative futures can bring old or new styles back to life.

Conclusion

Becoming a fashion expert and spotting trends before they hit the mainstream involves a comprehensive approach. By leveraging digital platforms, attending events, analyzing data, and keeping a keen eye on pop culture, you can hone your ability to predict and understand fashion trends. Remember, trends are a response to the broader cultural landscape, so staying curious, connected, and open to new influences is key to your journey toward fashion expertise. With dedication and the right knowledge, you’ll always be one step ahead, wearing the styles of tomorrow, today.