What Is the Definition of Social Trends?

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Most people have seen some kind of social trend. Social trends are the activities in which society participates. Some trends last for years, and others just a few weeks. Trends have been around since the beginning of human societies. You may have also heard them called “fads.”

What Causes Social Trends?

Social trends are often the result of society’s reaction to some aspect of culture like a type of clothing or a genre of music. While trends are often prompted by cultural minorities, the majority of a society typically takes on the trend as their own. People experience trends as a community. Engaging in trends can allow people to develop a sense of togetherness.

Social Trends Through the Decades

Through the years, many different social trends have made waves. For instance, the 1980s brought in neon colors and big hair. This is a stark contrast to the 1960s, which brought in trends like miniskirts and flat, middle-parted hair. Disco music, shoes with wheels, and even hairstyles like “The Rachel” are all examples of prominent social trends.

Many of the trends that emerged in the 1960s were linked to fashion and music. Common trends in the 1960s include bell-bottom pants, The Beatles, lava lamps, and go-go boots. 

In the 1970s, mood rings were very popular. Other trends included Daisy Duke shorts, platform shoes, and very long hair. Leisure suits were also common for men.

The 1980s also had several trends, including spandex and ripped knees in the pants. Lace, leg warmers, and high-waisted pants were also in style. As far as hairstyles go, mullets were also popular.

The 1990s brought on many new trends, including Beanie Babies and Furbies. People loved to listen to boy bands and grunge music. Piercings, overalls, sagging pants, and bleached hair created the most popular looks.

The 2000s brought in new trends, including the popularity of people like Paris Hilton and Kim Kardashian. People wore cargo pants, sandals with small straps, and loose pants.

Technology and Trends

Technology is also a trend. In the 1990s, people had beepers and cordless phones. In the 2000s, cellphones emerged. In the 2010s, many people began using tablets to surf the web.

Modern Trends

With 2010s came a wave of new technology, including smartphones. Social media websites, like Instagram, also created a new way for people to communicate with each other. Some trends have changed the way people communicate with each other.

Social media websites, including Facebook and Twitter, also helped facilitate trends. Social networking allows people from all around the world to see trends emerging anywhere else. Additionally, social networking allows social trends to last longer and make waves in different parts of the world.

Social Trends in Business

Many businesses use social trends as a way to establish their marketing campaigns. For instance, television commercials may bank on current trends to make funny and appealing advertisements that appeal to a wide audience.

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