Generation Instagram and fashion
It is not unusual to write about Instagram on LinkedIn, for the boundaries between the two media are becoming ever thinner. Until now the assumption has been that Instagram is more for young people and fashion enthusiasts.
LinkedIn, by contrast, is the serious platform for business contacts.
But Generation Instagram has grown older and has arrived in the business world, and the clientele on LinkedIn is also becoming ever more modern and more open.
So far, so good; this is a perfectly normal development, one might say, and in part it is — as far as the age gap is concerned. For both target groups are moving ever closer together.
But let us now come to the crux of the matter: again and again we read and hear about the changes in the world of fashion — no tie is worn any more, suits are becoming ever more sporty — smart casual is the topic of the moment.
I have also often written about this: https://ziadelachi.ch/was-ist-smart-casual.
On Instagram we also see a trend towards the classic wardrobe, thanks to influencers who love to put themselves on show.
For the theme of “casual” is no longer interesting; what is a “man” supposed to keep showing when it comes to “casual”? The choice in menswear is very limited. And it is only with the suit that far more creativity is called for. Especially since the new fabrics come with a wealth of colours and patterns.
Not to be underestimated is the body cult, the mania that we see on Instagram: styled-to-the-hilt, trained bodies that appear almost unnatural. And unfortunately many of these influencers dress in such a way — whether casual or in a suit — that every trained muscle is emphasised once more through clothing that is far too small and tight. The broad shoulders and the sculpted thighs. Practically a diving suit made of fabric. No, that does not look good at all(!) — this utterly unnatural look.
via Instagram: @Mens.Legacy
And because the generation of business newcomers lets itself be seduced by this mania, we already see many imitators in respectable positions.
And so, dear readers, fashion disasters arise, for not everything that looks good in pictures actually looks that way in reality. As fashion professionals we might smile and make light of it when we see such things.
But a wardrobe is not to be worn like that!!!
I have nothing against slim cuts — we of course produce them daily in our work — and there is nothing wrong with a slim silhouette either, but it simply has to fit!
There is measure and proportion; rules for the wardrobe that must be observed in order to achieve the right look. It is like cooking: too much or too little salt cannot be good, and accordingly many male influencers over-salt the taste of fashion.
But what to do?
Allow yourselves to be properly advised, dear gentlemen; joining a trend is no shame, but it should be the right one, and not every trend is to be chased if it does not suit you. Ask your friends if need be, and the ladies among your circle of friends and acquaintances.
Pay attention to your surroundings and how far you can go with the trends. And in any good specialist shop or with the bespoke tailor of your choice you will always be well advised in this regard!
For anyone who would like to look into good fashion in advance, I warmly recommend these articles:
Further reading
The Business Essentials Wardrobe — More joy in your wardrobe!
Travelling in Style — How to pack correctly for your business trip.
