J Brand flare jeans (on sale)
Let me preface this post by saying this outfit has absolutely nothing to do with the following article. And the fact that I look mad is purely because I was annoyed at my poor mother while we were shooting these photos… the sun was going down and we were racing to get the shot. There, now you know the whole story behind the photograph. On that honest note, I’m moving onto a subject that I, like many others, want to touch on, especially since blogging and social media are such large parts of my life.
I’m sure by now you’ve all seen Essena O’Neill’s video where she quits social media and talks about how unhealthy and unrealistic it is. My first thought was that this girl is perceptive, insightful and wise beyond her years, regardless of the fact that I am very active on and have a career because of social media. She makes some good points.
Others have not been so kind. There has been a lot of backlash about how she’s using these messages to grow her platforms (you can’t really announce you’re “quitting” social media using your actually social media platforms…) and perhaps she is, but she makes a valid point. There is a lot of influencer marketing out there that is bullshit. Does your food ever look as pretty as the Instagram photo? When you lay out your clothes do they ever actually look like that flat lay Margaret Zhang posted? Nope. And as long as we all understand that, I think that the perfected illusion of Instagram is ok. It’s beautiful… it’s almost like art. It’s photography with a new medium: your iPhone.
I have conflicting thoughts on this topic, perhaps because I think it’s an important one to talk about. Like any form of entertainment, social media needs boundaries and understanding. Getting consumed by it isn’t healthy. Not using it at all isn’t bad, but it’s also passing up on an opportunity to use this new and amazing expression tool in a positive way. Moderation, like so many things in life, is key.
I want you to know that I don’t always look the way I do on my blog (snapchat can be good for that). Sometimes I look tired and like shit and wear old, paint-speckled sweatpants that are covered with hair from my beloved dog. But I’m not looking to make people feel bad about themselves… I want to inspire women (and men) to use clothing as a means to gain confidence. It’s why I began to love fashion and started this blog in the first place. And I’m lucky enough to be able to voice my opinion in an age where social media can complement that.
And now that I’ve put my thoughts to paper (or on my laptop), I will leave you with two of my favourite sartorial quotes:
“What you wear is how you present yourself to the world, especially today, when human contact is so quick. Fashion is instant language.” Miuccia Prada
“Clothes aren’t going to change the world. The women who wear them will.” Anne Klein
I’d love to know your thoughts.. Do you agree? Disagree? Let me know in the comments or shoot me an email!
Awesome post and response to the Essena debate! Love your jacket, as an aside 🙂
http://EverRose.com
Author
thank you so much!
Great post, Jill. And I especially like the comment about your poor mom. Lol.
I think you’re right — as long as people are aware that Instagram reality isn’t, in fact, reality — then it’s all fair game.
Social media provides escapism, both for those who post to it and those who simply view it. What’s wrong with stylized images that are often inspirational and also often serve as advertorial?
I don’t see a problem with it, especially not given the fact that we are increasingly living in a world were people aren’t just people, they’re brands. But I suppose if a person is unable to separate online reality from real reality, then there might be an issue.
PS- LOVE that blazer.
Best,
Aleesha
http://covetandacquire.com
Author
Hah gotta be honest about the shoots! You’re totally right about escapism, especially as that’s something our society seems to crave, be in through books or the celebrity entertainment world.
What a beautiful look!!
Blonde in Cashmere
Author
thanks Vera!
Great insights and honestly here, Jill. I particularly love this quote too: “Clothes aren’t going to change the world. The women who wear them will.” Anne Klein
Author
thanks! I love love love that quote 🙂
I couldn’t agree more with you ! very well written post Jill
Author
thank you so much Michel! that is the best compliment.
okay yes yes could not agree with you more – everything in moderation. also, i LOVE those flared jeans. so pretty. xx
I totally agree with everything you said! You hit every point that needs to go out there! You and your outfits are gorgeous! xoxo
http://www.mystylesketchbook.blogspot.com
Totally agree with everything you have written. It’s easy to get consumed by it all, but not using it at all closes you off to something that has become a part of life, whether we like it or not. great article!! xx
Great post – glad you pointed out so many important subjects! Can’t agree more, dear – thanks for sharing those words. And btw: your look is great, love that blazer!
x. Mirjam
http://www.jeneregretterien.ch
Wonderfull Blog Wonderful Thought And you Look Classy I like Your Post !
http://www.angelmstyle.com angelmstyle