Fashion, style and body confidence have been potent topics for years—and social media platforms have only added fuel to the fires. With the influence of fashion influencers, body positivity and empowerment are being shared in innovative and powerful ways. But this discussion goes beyond fashion to ask: how authentic are we when influencers take the lead in promoting body acceptance and confidence? Let’s explore the role of fashion influencers and body positive messages, and delve into the authenticity of these movements.
1. Redefining the Standard: The Rise of the Fashion Influencer
In the last few years, fashion influencers have taken over the fashion scene. As they continue to branch away from traditional fashion experts, influencers have evolved into trendsetters, creating an online presence of their own.
- From styling and inspiring looks, to creating collaborative photo shoots with popular industry members, fashion influencers are a powerful source of creativity.
- They are compelling curators of content, allowing fans to gain insights into the industry, while offering an element of variety not found in traditional fashion magazines.
In many ways, fashion influencers have been pushing the standards set by classical figures in the fashion world, emerging as powerful trendsetters themselves. Where formerly someone with a high-end fashion blog might have been seen as an “amateur” in the industry, fashion influencers have truly filled that void — bringing new concepts, styles, and the spirit of creativity to the fashion world.
A huge part of the power behind fashion influencers has to do with their social reach. They’re constantly calling on their networks to create something unique and engaging. As a result, fashion influencers have elevated the industry, creating a new realm of self-expression through their personal style.
Furthermore, fashion influencers’ ability to produce content quickly and without the time restraint of runway shows has been monumental in introducing a new generation of fashion into the world. Through strategic collaborations, they’ve tapped into the lives of their fans, creating a community of individuals who are eager to follow them and their fashion journeys.
The impact of fashion influencers is evident, and they have undeniably had a massive role in redefining the standards of the fashion world.
2. The Possibilities of Body Positivity
The Power of Representation
In terms of its potential, body positivity is unmatched. For underrepresented bodies, saying they are deserving of respect and belonging can truly be an act of revolution. Artwork, media, and popular culture can all be leveraged to raise visibility and recognition of bodies of every shape, size, and ability. We can tell brave, triumphant stories and have visible representation of diversity in every arena, taking down stereotypes and affirming true beauty.
Overcoming Obstacles
Yet body positivity is not merely a theoretical concept – it is a very real and potential path to healing. In order to fully embrace and express our bodies, it is key to first address the barriers we face. Many people feel shame and guilt due to past experiences with public and private judgment, and this often leads to self-doubt and anxiety. Building self-esteem and trust in our own bodies takes conscious work. It is also important to recognize and confront internalized oppressions – feeling ill at ease in one’s own body because of stereotypes and unfair representations.
Celebrations and Expressions of Joy
Once barriers are broken down, body positivity can lead to incredible celebration and joy. We can enjoy how our bodies move and use them for creative expression, honoring the beauty of our unique forms. Wearing clothes and styles we feel truly comfortable in can be an incredible act of self-love and daring. In embracing physical forms of joy, full strength and liberation can be accessed.
Upbringing and Education
Ultimately, body positivity is a gift that can be cultivated from early ages. If believe that our bodies have worth and give us access to worthiness, then norms of self-care, respect, and admiration should be part of our daily lives. Parents, teachers, mentors, and guardians can become extremely powerful in teaching that instead of having to try to fit into a narrow definition of beauty, every person can exist as themselves.
Supporting System
Being body positive does not have to be a solitary journey. Communities of support are available online, with affordances of peer-support and understanding. In-person groups and organizations can also provide solidarity in affirmation of the various shapes, sizes, abilities, and other traits that make up our unique physical forms.
3. Finding Authenticity Through Fashion
Fashion is how we express ourselves; when we look good, we feel good. But finding an authentic sense of style often takes a bit of time and effort. There are a few key elements that can help make finding authenticity in fashion a little easier.
- Take your time: It’s important to recognize that you won’t necessarily find your personal style overnight. Take some time to experiment with different styles until you find something you’re truly comfortable in.
- Know thyself: Discover what colours and cuts truly flatter your body shape and skin tone. Colour blocking and layers can really help enhance your look.
- Keep it timeless: Forget the fads and find clothes that reflect timelessness and are easily mixable. These are usually the pieces that are great for experimenting within your own signature style.
Creating a wardrobe that’s tailored to you is a simple process, but it’s important to be patient with yourself. Remember to not be influenced by fleeting trends and only buy pieces you’ll actually use. Cultivate timeless pieces that can be worn in all sorts of ways and it’ll be easier for you when putting together outfits.
When you’re shopping to discover an authentic sense of fashion, go with your gut — something that may not be trendy now may become the next big thing a few months later. Just keep in mind the key components of timelessness, comfort, and effortless mix-ability.
Finding your own unique style is a journey, and it’s a journey worth taking. With these guidelines, it’s easy to find an authentic sense of fashion.
4. Reclaiming Our Narratives: The Power of Empowerment
The power of culture is immense. Its implications reach far, permeating every corner of our being. We can learn much from our shared stories, whether they be oral or written, passed from one generation to the next. Stories are intertwined with how we understand ourselves and the world around us; often, they serve as the basis of our identity and beliefs.
In some situations, this can work to the detriment of a community, as outdated structures interfere with true progress and democratization. The good news is, by understanding how stories influence our lives, we can actively work to reclaim our narratives and emancipate our communities from oppressive forces. This process is commonly known as empowerment.
When we speak of empowerment, it’s important to recognize that no two people experience it in the same way. It’s a subjective process and the results will vary from one person to the next. That being said, there are certain aspects of empowerment that are universally applicable to us all – namely, the empowerment to be:
- Heard: Earning the right to make ourselves heard, whenever and wherever we choose;
- Educated: Receiving the education and resources necessary to make informed decisions;
- Recognized: Having our accomplishments acknowledged and celebrated;
- Validated: Experiencing a sense of belonging to a valued and respected community;
- Supported: Acknowledging the contributions made to the collective effort.
All these qualities develop in the context of empowerment and can serve to unleash immense potential in the act of reclaiming our narratives. On an individual level, this could refer to recalling moments of adversity and anguishes as opportunities for growth. On a communal scale, this equates to empowerment encouraging the recognition of truths, stories, and the actions needed to change our situation.
Empowerment is a choice. It’s a process of self-discovery, one that can change and shape our lives. Let us acknowledge, accept, and use the power of empowerment to reclaim our narratives and redefine our identities.
The body positivity movement is here to stay. With more and more fashion influencers joining the conversation, it’s clear that empowerment, inclusivity, and authenticity are the highest fashionable ideals. As inspiring individuals continue to promote self-love and acceptance, we can expect to see a more compassionate industry that values diverse narratives over narrow beauty standards. Together, let’s keep empowering and uplifting one another—and keep our fashion forward.
