The Young Men’s Style Council of TikTok

The article explores the emergence of a new wave of fashion discourse on TikTok, spearheaded by young male influencers who are reshaping the way men engage with style. Central figures like Mark Boutilier, Etienne Bolduc, and Joaquin Martinez are redefining fashion criticism through humor, historical context, and interactive engagement, moving away from the polished aesthetics of Instagram.

Key Highlights

1. Mark Boutilier's Unique Approach: Boutilier uses TikTok’s duet function to critique fashion choices with deadpan humor, offering a counter-narrative to the overly curated content prevalent on other platforms. His videos invite viewers to question conventional styles, creating a space for informal yet meaningful fashion discourse.

1. Etienne Bolduc’s Archival Insight: Bolduc combines his knowledge of Japanese fashion with a playful critique of misinformation, advocating for a deeper understanding of cultural significance in clothing. His videos are educational, blending outfit displays with historical references.

2. Joaquin Martinez’s Silhouette Philosophy: Martinez focuses on how to create cohesive outfits, addressing body shapes and color coordination. His analytical approach aims to teach others the intricacies of style, drawing on his background in fashion theory.

3. Community and Collaboration: The TikTok fashion scene thrives on community, with creators sharing insights and supporting each other. They engage in friendly banter and corrections, fostering a collaborative environment rather than a competitive one.

4. D.I.Y. Fashion Movement: Young creators like Julian Carter demonstrate how to make and modify clothes, emphasizing accessibility and personal expression. Their content not only critiques existing trends but also encourages viewers to craft their own styles.

Platform Dynamics: TikTok’s informal and improvisational nature allows for a richer exchange of ideas compared to other social media. Creators embrace the platform’s quirks, fostering a more spontaneous and engaging dialogue around fashion.

The Influence of Celebrity Style on Men’s Fashion 

Celebrities are under constant scrutiny, whether on the red carpet or through their social media presence, and their fashion choices greatly influence global trends. Serving as trendsetters, these figures significantly shape popular culture and men's fashion through their sartorial decisions.

The Power of Celebrity Endorsement

Celebrities leverage their platforms to showcase personal style, reaching millions through various channels. Their endorsements can propel specific styles or brands into mainstream fashion, altering consumer behavior. Whether through casual streetwear or tailored suits, celebrity influence plays a crucial role in redefining fashion norms for men.

Redefining Masculinity and Gender Norms

In recent years, celebrities have challenged traditional masculinity and gender norms in fashion. Icons like Harry Styles promote self-expression and individuality, inspiring men to adopt bold colors and unconventional styles. This movement encourages a departure from outdated stereotypes, allowing fashion to become a medium for creative expression.

The Enduring Legacy of Iconic Looks

Certain celebrity styles, such as James Dean’s denim or David Bowie’s glam-rock outfits, have left a lasting impact on men’s fashion. These iconic looks continue to inspire contemporary trends, reflecting the timeless influence of celebrity style on popular culture.

Drawing Inspiration

The undeniable impact of celebrity style shapes trends, challenges norms, and fosters individuality. As we celebrate the legacy of iconic looks, we are encouraged to draw inspiration from these figures, embracing creativity and self-expression in our personal fashion journeys.

How social media is changing kids’ fashion

Social media's pervasive influence extends to children's fashion, shaping both styles and purchasing decisions. As parents navigate this digital landscape, trends emerge that significantly impact what kids wear and how families shop.

1. Matching Outfits: The 'Mini-Me Mania' Trend

The popularity of matching outfits, known as "mini-me mania," reflects a growing trend among influencers and parents alike. Many families are opting for coordinated clothing, often inspired by social media. While some see this as a fun way to bond, parents like Christy Beck acknowledge the eventual need for children to express their individuality. The consensus is to enjoy this phase while it lasts, as matching outfits can be both Instagram-worthy and practical for everyday outings.

2. The Rise of Luxury Kids wear

With millennials now becoming parents, there's a noticeable shift towards spending more on children’s clothing. The luxury segment of the kids wear market has seen growth, increasing from 7% to 11% between 2016 and 2018. Factors contributing to this trend include delayed parenthood, increased disposable income, and the influence of child influencers showcasing high-end brands. However, experts caution against overspending on luxury items due to the rapid growth of children. A more sustainable approach may involve creating a capsule wardrobe with versatile, quality pieces that last longer.

3. Self-Expression Through Fashion

Children today are deeply integrated into the digital world, particularly through platforms like TikTok, which is popular among younger users. This exposure allows them to explore various fashion styles and express their personalities. With proper guidance from parents, this can foster a positive journey of self-discovery in fashion. Encouraging children to voice their preferences—rather than solely relying on influencers—can strengthen familial bonds and support their individuality

CONCLUSION

In today's fashion landscape, social media and celebrity influence play pivotal roles in shaping styles across generations. TikTok has emerged as a dynamic platform where young male influencers, like Mark Boutilier and Etienne Bolduc, are redefining fashion discourse through humor and education, fostering a sense of community and creativity. Meanwhile, celebrities significantly impact men's fashion trends, challenging traditional masculinity and encouraging self-expression with bold styles, further embedding these concepts into popular culture. Similarly, social media is transforming children's fashion, as trends like "mini-me mania" promote matching outfits, while a rise in luxury kids wear reflects millennial spending habits. Overall, these interconnected influences highlight the importance of personal expression, community engagement, and thoughtful purchasing in contemporary fashion.

REFERENCE

• Caramanica, J. (2021, July 8). The young men’s style council of TikTok. The New York Times. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/08/style/the-young-mens-style-council-of-tiktok.html
• Khaliques. (n.d.). The influence of celebrity style on men’s fashion. Khaliques. https://khaliques.co.za/the-influence-of-celebrity-style-on-mens-fashion/?srsltid=AfmBOooTiOkuYY8jWi-EE2sDu7NIlGUAPnWH8L58e81tTAi7E5qPP8vO