The "It" Girl

Have you ever stopped and asked yourself, “Why am I wearing a tunic sweater, with black leggings and a pair of leather booties?” Other than the fact that you look fabulous, the answer might be that you are influenced by the latest fashion trends. We all fall prey to the desire of wanting to wear what’s “in style.” It expresses to the world that we are a hip, chic and other nebulous subjective adjectives. We have the "it" pair of jeans, with the "it" jacket and all the "it" accessories to complement the look, while wearing the "it" perfume.

But an even more peculiar question is, “Who sets these sometimes ridiculous, ever-changing, perpetual fashion trends in the first place?” The definition of “fashion” is the prevailing style or custom. But what mysterious body or governing force determines what prevails?

Well, every generation has their own style with something unique that sets them apart from the previous generations. In today's generation youth are growing up in a "consumption culture." Satisfaction is gained if we purchase products to fill our wants and desires, which is not a far stretch from 1980's decade of self-indulgence that I grew up in.

Marketing, advertising, and the media also influence the way we dress, with the underlying motivation being profit. Fashion designers thrive off of the influence that celebrities have on the public when they’re seen wearing one of their garments. Through television, magazines and movies, we are subliminally told what to wear to be "cool."

Nevertheless, there are practical and logical influences that have an impact fashion, such as functionality, durability and comfort. When we can have these attributes along with fabulous style, we have achieved the ultimate. I stumbled across the most wonderful website for those of you who adore fashionable handbags. Visit www.bagsnob.com to stay abreast of the latest “it” bags. These purses and totes may not be the most practical, but you’re guaranteed to get noticed.

In the end, whether it’s “in” or “out,” it’s all about you. Take ownership of your individual style and stay connected!