Wear the trend. Don't let it wear you.

Image courtesy of Urban Outfitters, 2012.

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Did I miss the memo on what’s fashionable this year or something? When I walk around the Fan in Richmond, I feel like I have stepped into hoboville. Over-sized tanks, small, tight shorts, acid wash shirts, neon colors, ankle boots and vegan shoes seem to be all the trend right now. This look is represented in gays dressing like they just woke up, rolled out of bed, had three PBRs, and then walked out on the street. Colors don’t match, sunglasses came from a bad episode of “The Fresh Prince of Bell Air,” clothes aren’t fitted, and hairstyles look to be done by blind monkeys. The purpose of this trend is to stand out, make a statement, and be non-compliant to high fashion.

Where did this trend come from anyway? It came from big retailers like Urban Outfitters, American Apparel and H&M, among many others. Celebrities were wearing these fashions about two years ago and continue to wear them to this day. What some may think is an expression of individuality and independence turns out to be following the current trends that big corporations intend for us to follow. The problem is not with supporting fashion trends but the way that people execute them. Celebrities and models who have this look and make statements about uniqueness have a team of professionals that cater to their every need. Normal people clearly don’t have access to some of these resources so therefore their “look” might end up more like a tragic hobo.

When imitating any fads, it is important to realize there is no such thing as original style. Everything comes from inspiration of existing trends. If you are going to do it, do it correctly. Looking like you just woke up and haven’t showered for days is not cute. Wearing oversized shirts and tight shorts can be a pretty cute look if done right. Do a little research when trying ANY new trends. The internet is your best friend–inspiration and ideas are often found from websites that talk about style.

 

Ugly, messy hair is gross, period. Get a haircut, wash your hair, and put some hair product in it. Holes, rips and cut-offs are great for certain social situations but please don’t show up to your cousin’s wedding wearing all Urban Outfitters. You might meet a hot rich doctor there and you don’t want him to think you are the white trash cousin. A good way to dress up your homeless-chic is by wearing cute shoes. Aldo has an amazing selection and typically have affordable merchandise. Avoid Burlington Coat Factory, as they are definitely not trendy.

 

Accessorize accordingly: the right watch, bracelet, belt or sunglasses can make all the difference between a not-so-hot and a polished hot look. Keep in mind the type of body you have and dress accordingly. Don’t try to squeeze into skinny jeans if you are overweight or dress in super massive shirts when you are tooth-pick skinny. A good way to know what you really look like when trying on clothes is to take pictures of yourself. Mirrors can be unreliable.  You could also bring a friend with you when you shop–just make sure they are not the kind of friend that will tell you that you look great in everything, they are no good.

 

In sum, fashion and style are a great thing, but what is most important above all is that you look good in it. It doesn’t matter if you are dressed in the latest trends if you look terrible. Listen and pay attention to your body and find what suits you. Make trends fit you, not the other way around.  Clothing make homos unique–don’t end up looking like a homeless dirty hobo.

 

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