Social media hasn t killed personal style, it s killed how we communicate it

Billy Odell Tucker-Robinson Founder & Host — Banking With Billy Network • Intelligence Network • Data Science • AI Research • World News
Published: 2026-10-01T19:05:36.416Z • Permanent link

Fashion's influence on social media is undeniable, with influencers and celebrities showcasing their personal style to millions of followers. However, recent posts declaring that almost anything is "kinda chic" has sparked debate about the state of personal style in the digital age. Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok have created a culture where users can share and discover new fashion trends, but at what cost?

Fashion experts have long argued that social media has changed the way we consume and interact with fashion, but the notion that anything is "kinda chic" is a recent phenomenon. According to data from the NPD Group, a market research company, 75% of fashion purchases are made in-store, with the remaining 25% made online. Social media plays a significant role in influencing online shopping behavior, but it's unclear whether this shift towards casual, relaxed fashion is a permanent trend.

One notable example of this shift is the rise of athleisure wear. Brands like Lululemon and Nike have dominated the market with comfortable, stylish clothing that can be dressed up or down. According to a report by Euromonitor International, the athleisure market is expected to continue growing, with sales projected to reach $143 billion by 2025. Social media has played a significant role in promoting this trend, with influencers and celebrities showcasing their athletic wear on Instagram and other platforms.

Social media's influence on personal style has significant implications for companies in the fashion industry. Luxury brands like Gucci and Chanel have struggled to adapt to the shift towards casual, relaxed fashion, with some arguing that the rise of athleisure wear is a threat to their traditional business models. On the other hand, companies like Zara and H&M have seen significant success with their fast-fashion business models, which prioritize speed and affordability over high-end fashion.

The rise of social media has also created new opportunities for researchers and analysts to study the impact of fashion on consumer behavior. According to a report by McKinsey & Company, the fashion industry is one of the largest industries in the world, with a global value of over $3 trillion. Social media has created new avenues for researchers to study consumer behavior, with many studies focusing on the role of social media in shaping fashion trends.

The notion that almost anything is "kinda chic" is not a new phenomenon. In the 1980s and 1990s, fashion was characterized by a "grunge" aesthetic, with flannel shirts and ripped jeans becoming popular among young people. This trend was driven in part by social media, with platforms like Myspace and AOL Instant Messenger (AIM) allowing users to share and discover new fashion trends.