The Rise of Aesthetic Subcultures on Social Media and the Problem with Hyper-Consumerism

Let's talk aesthetic subcultures on social media

In recent years, aesthetic subcultures have taken over social media. From cottage core and e-boy/e-girl to dark Academia and that girl aesthetic, these subcultures have created communities of people with shared interests in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. While these subcultures can be fun and inclusive, they also come with their own set of problems, particularly when it comes to hyper-consumerism and the connection between consumption identity and financial health.

The problem with hyper-consumerism in aesthetic subcultures

One of the biggest issues with aesthetic subcultures on social media is the emphasis on consumption. Many of these subcultures have a specific set of products and brands that are considered essential for participating in the subculture. For example, the VSCO girl aesthetic is known for its love of Hydro Flask water bottles, scrunchies, and Birkenstocks.

This hyper-consumerism can be damaging, both for individuals and the environment. It encourages people to constantly buy new products to keep up with the latest trends, which can lead to financial strain and a reliance on fast fashion and disposable products.

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The rise of aesthetic subcultures on social media

Despite these problems, the rise of aesthetic subcultures on social media has been impressive. These subcultures have created communities of people who share a common interest and can connect with others who understand their unique style and aesthetic preferences.

For example, the cottage core subculture celebrates all things cozy, rustic, and cottage-like. People in this subculture often share photos of themselves wearing flowy dresses, drinking tea, and baking bread. The e-boy and e-girl subcultures, on the other hand, are known for their alternative fashion and bold makeup looks.

The example of the VSCO girl aesthetic and the shared language of products

One of the most interesting aspects of aesthetic subcultures is the shared language of products. In the VSCO girl aesthetic, for example, certain products are considered essential for participation in the subculture. This creates a language that allows members to communicate with one another through their shared love of specific products.

While this can be a fun and inclusive way to connect with others, it can also create a sense of pressure to conform to the subculture's standards. If you don't have the right products or can't afford them, you may feel excluded from the community.

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The importance of consumption identity and how it shapes our identities

Our consumption habits play a significant role in shaping our identities. The products we buy and the subcultures we participate in can say a lot about who we are and what we value. For example, someone who is interested in the dark Academia subculture may value intellectual pursuits, while someone who participates in the e-boy or e-girl subcultures may prioritize individuality and non-conformity.

However, it's important to be mindful of the role that consumption plays in shaping our identities. We should strive to be conscious consumers who make intentional choices about what we buy and why.

Building digital communities through aesthetic subcultures

Despite the problems with hyper-consumerism, aesthetic subcultures can be a positive force for building digital communities. By bringing together people who share a common interest, these subcultures can create a sense of belonging and foster connections that may not have been possible otherwise.

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The connection between consumption identity and financial health

It's important to acknowledge the connection between consumption identity and financial health. Constantly buying new products to keep up with the latest trends can lead to financial strain and a reliance on fast fashion and disposable products. We should strive to be conscious consumers who make intentional choices about what we buy and why.

Conclusion: Decent material subcultures and the importance of being mindful consumers

Aesthetic subcultures on social media have become a popular way for individuals to express their identity and connect with others who share similar interests. However, these subcultures can also lead to hyper-consumerism and a focus on material possessions as a way to fit in and be accepted.

It's important to recognize that consumption identity plays a role in shaping our identities and how we present ourselves to the world. But it's also important to be mindful of the impact our consumption has on the environment and our financial health.

Instead of focusing solely on material possessions and keeping up with the latest trends, we can strive for a more decent material subculture that prioritizes sustainable and ethical consumption. This means being intentional with our purchases, considering the impact they have on the environment and the workers who produce them, and finding joy in the things we already have instead of constantly seeking new things.

By building digital communities through aesthetic subcultures, we can connect with others who share our values and encourage each other to make more mindful choices. Ultimately, this can lead to a more sustainable and fulfilling way of life that's grounded in our values and beliefs.

Let's embrace the beauty and creativity of aesthetic subcultures while also being mindful of our consumption habits. By doing so, we can build a more sustainable and fulfilling future for ourselves and our planet.