I do not expect or want you to take away the impression that I think fashion is a bad thing. It is most certainly not. It is just not style. It is also not a fad.

Fads are micro-fashions: minute-to-minute changes in styles that correspond with an overall fashion theme or trend. A trend towards sexy, for example, may lead us into closer cuts, shorter skirts and fishnets.

A fad with the same theme will give us painted-on styles, micro-minis, and fishnets.

Following fashion trends is what keeps us in sync with the times and not stuck in a time warp. A 1980s power suit today would look as out of place as a 1960s hippie outfit would have looked in the 80s.

Fads are what mark us as followers, unsure of ourselves and who we are, shouting loud and clear: “Fashion victim!”

If a fad works for you, own it. Make it a part of your style, but only a part. A sure-fire way to strike out in the style department is to go faddish with an entire outfit.

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