Dangers of Falling Victim to an Era of Social Media Populism

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“Document the moments you feel most in love with yourself - what you’re wearing, who you’re around, what you’re doing. Recreate and repeat.”

― Warsan Shire

Remember the days when having bold and expressive accessories were all the rage? When expressing ourselves with the clothes that we wore, our hair, jewelry, bags, shoes and even phone cases was a thing? We wore just about anything to show our preferences--our favorite cartoon characters, instruments that we played.

Then suddenly, our individual expression began to dwindle into populism. An era of social media popularity and Kardiashian-ism arose. We traded in our Betty Boop bags and piano phone cases for high priced lipstick and brow pencils to make sure they were always "on fleek" for the Gram. No way would we be caught looking childish or unfashionable. Increased awareness of perceived outer appearance seemed to take precedence of what use to be reality.

While there are many amazing effects of caring about personal image, (when you look good you feel good!) a rigorous study showed how social media had a large impact in increased levels of unfavorable social comparison. Another study showed that use of social media can cause users to think of themselves negatively.

Although social media and the culture of rapid information can be great in many ways, it's important to remember the things that are most important to you. It might seem cool to keep up with the Jones', but what part of you would you been giving up?

Nothing will make you more happy in the long run than living the way you want to live, loving who you want to love, living life in your own timing and keeping your own style.

#Fashion #Style #Populism #Kardashian #Opinion #SelfLove #MentalHealth