Fashion might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of the many issues teenagers grapple with, but it’s incredibly important. During our adolescence we explore our personal identity and figure out who we are, what we like and how we want to live our lives. What we choose to wear goes hand-in-hand with this transformative phase.   

Teens use fashion as a way of expressing their individuality and what they believe in. They may have to wear a uniform at work or school, but in their own time what they choose to wear is their decision, and theirs alone. Fashion is actually one of the few choices teens get to make independently – between being told to do their homework, chores and family obligations, there isn’t much room for self-determination!

When we open our wardrobes we actively choose what we want to say to the world. For teens, fashion can be a means to fitting in with certain groups at school, or a way to intentionally stand out from the crowd. For those that want to avoid attention, it can help them fade into the background. Just think of all those American teen movies showing the stereotypical high school groups – the ‘jocks’, the ‘nerds’, the ‘goths’, the ‘hippies’. They’re wildly exaggerated, of course, but they do show how fashion allows people to transform their image to conform with certain cliques.

Fashion can also be used to make a social or political statement. We’ve seen this with celebrities, from Rihanna’s “We Should All Be Feminists” t-shirt, to NBA star Lebron James’s “I Can’t Breathe” t-shirt (in reference to George Floyd). Teens in particular are especially conscious of climate change, and look to celebrities like Emma Watson and Natalie Portman to lead the charge when it comes to eco-friendly, ethical fashion. Many young people are using fashion to show their support for the planet, purchasing items with a sustainable element, like organic cotton. Those on a budget can still take a stand, choosing to buy second hand and focussing on repairing, rather than replacing, damaged clothing.

Experimentation is a major part of determining personal style, and teens will be influenced by a number of things including what their favourite celebrities are wearing, what they see in magazines, on TV and on social media, what clothing labels put in their window displays. Be patient and understanding as your teen tries different clothing items, colours, fabrics and accessories. Avoid influencing their decisions by keeping your opinion to yourself – at the end of the day, you want your teen feeling confident and comfortable.

This brings us to the heart of why teen fashion matters. It comes down to self-esteem, self-determination and happiness. Fashion has the ability to inspire confidence in your teen and allow them to thrive every day. Wearing what truly makes them feel great and comfortable in their own skin creates an important foundation for happiness and for setting a positive path forward.

Finding that unique personal style can be tricky, especially with so many conflicting influences circulating in the media. This is why a little support can help guide your teen towards discovering their identity, style and confidence. I created my Teen Girls Styling Course and Teen Boys Course to do just that – help adolescents create an individual sense of style and learn valuable etiquette and communication skills that will carry them into the future. This is a fun course in a relaxed setting which allows teens to make friends while finding inner confidence. As well as essential style skills we will cover a range of topics from presentation, wardrobe organisation and grooming, to skincare, haircare and goal-setting.

If you think your teen could benefit from diving a little deeper into the nitty gritty of fashion and lifestyle, take a look at my specialised courses at angelastone.co.nz/courses