TL;DR
- The social shopping trend has created quite a stir in the fashion industry, particularly in the US.
- Replacing fashion shows and magazines, social media has become the go-to source dictating trends in the fashion world.
- Increasingly, shoppers in the US are deciding what to buy and wear based on influencers’ recommendations.
- This guide explores how Instagram and TikTok are setting fashion trends by offering a seamless, comprehensive, and dynamic shopping experience.
Models on the runway and celebs on the red carpet might still be representing what’s in this season, but US shoppers are increasingly using social media to decide their next outfit. With online shopping on the rise, TikTok trends and Instagram content are playing a major role in shaping how consumers discover and buy fashion.
People aren’t just scrolling for entertainment anymore. They’re discovering stylish dresses, saving cute OOTDs, and learning about new color combos. Influencers are building looks for everything from supermarket runs and picnics to lunch dates and parties. No event is too casual, and no occasion too specific. Even if a quick search for ‘Instagram airport outfit ideas’ pulls up pages dedicated to mastering that trademark chic-but-comfortable travel look.
Read on to find out how and why this shift is changing the way America dresses.
Also Read: How to Dress Like You Have Your Life Together
The Social Shopping Phenomenon
It’s incredible how platforms once meant for social connections have now become the driving force behind major fashion trends. It’s a new world where content meets commerce to give way to social shopping.
The average internet user was only interested in funny cat videos or viral memes. Now they are exploring outfits on the platform as well. The millennials and Gen Zs are loving it and how! The scroll-to-shop approach lets them browse the collection and shop on the go while lying down on the couch or sitting at their office desk.
As per statistics, 45.5% of US TikTok users are likely to shop through the app in 2025. This is the highest rate among all social media platforms. Furthermore, 75% of Instagram users reportedly base their buying decisions on the type of content they see on their feed.
Why Does It Work for Shoppers?
Here are some key reasons why social shopping is working for today’s consumer:
- Ease of Use: Thanks to seamless integration of product tags, in-app stores, swipe-up links, and livestreams, users can enjoy shopping without even leaving the app. With the rising popularity of influencers, Instagram and TikTok have also made it easy for brands to collaborate with creators and sell directly to the consumer. You watch an influencer explain the outfit, and within seconds, you’re able to shop the entire look.
- Inclusivity and Representation: Influencers, often everyday people, stepped up to fill gaps that mainstream brands had long ignored. Content creators are embracing body positivity and valuing individual identity. Instagram models’ outfits reflect a wide spectrum of body types, skin colors, and ethnicities, making fashion feel more inclusive and relatable. With the right representation and inclusion, a diverse group of people can find attires that match their style and taste.
- Quick Discovery of Trends: Instead of stepping out and discovering what people are wearing this summer, you can simply go to your feed and check out the latest Instagram trends. You just have to scroll past 2 short-form videos, and you will know what’s in this season. This is how quick and efficient social media is. In less than a minute, you’ll know exactly what your next jeans would look like or what print everyone is raving about!
- Interactive Experience: One of the most noteworthy elements of social shopping is that everything works in real-time. Whether it’s a poll or a livestream, you get to interact with the influencer and ask questions right away. You can use the comment section to ask creators about their outfits and styling as well.
Influencers: The New Age Fashion Experts
Today’s social media influencers play a key role in dictating the US shopping culture. Their carefully curated videos of trying on dresses, discussing their favorite and least favorite fashion trends, and honest reviews of outfits are instrumental for the growth of the fashion industry. From micro-influencers to popular creators with millions of followers, everyone is creating a digital space for themselves. Brands want them, social media platforms need them, and buyers love them!
Research suggests that out of 4 people, 3 have bought things recommended by influencers. 87% of Gen Z shoppers say that they are more likely to trust a brand that collaborates with content creators. If these figures are to be believed, influencers have undoubtedly become an important stakeholder in the world of fashion trends.
Power of User-Generated Content
Today’s shoppers are more likely to trust someone with a relatable body and story than the airbrushed, overly polished images brands used to rely on. From GRWM reels to OOTD videos, every piece of content now comes with a personal, authentic touch.
Buyers can see how the same outfit looks on different body types before making a choice. This kind of peer-driven, user-generated content empowers buyers and boosts their confidence.
Also Read: Soft Pink and Silver: The Must-Have Hues for Women’s Everyday Looks
Conclusion
The TikTok outfits you are seeing on your feed are not just making you aware of what’s trending. These content pieces are also dictating your buying decisions, your choices, and how you establish trust with brands.
If you love brands that are unapologetically cool and quirky, you should explore Cherry Kitten. With a cult following on social media, the brand is turning TikTok trends into fashion hits with playful and bold pieces. And the best part? You get to save big on their trendy crop tops and stylish slip dresses. Check out Cherry Kitten discount offers and buy your next influencer-approved outfits at an amazing price.
To save money while shopping, follow My Exclusive Deals and get access to our curated list of verified deals across several categories. From fashion and makeup to travel and health, we have hard-to-miss deals for all buyers.
FAQs
1. Can I buy clothes directly from Instagram and TikTok?
Yes, both brands provide a seamless shopping experience through tools like product tags and built-in stores.
2. How does social media affect fashion?
Social media has completely changed how trends are discovered, followed, and shopped. Influencers, GRWM reels, and OOTD videos give everyday shoppers styling inspiration that feels relatable and achievable. People can explore new styles, see how they look on different body types, and shop the outfit instantly.
3. What does Gen Z like in fashion?
Gen Z fashion is all about expressing individuality, choosing sustainability, and embracing a mix of styles, including streetwear, athleisure, and Y2K nostalgia.
4. What fashion brands are doing well because of TikTok and Instagram?
Brands like Cherry Kitten and PrettyLittleThing are doing well by leveraging the power of social media influencers.
5. What is the brand Cherry Kitten known for?
Cherry Kitten is known for Y2K-inspired clothing featuring playful and retro-themed designs meant for millennials and Gen Z buyers.