Does representation matter?
Identity forms an increasingly critical part of our culture, shaping policies, interactions and online discourse. But how important is seeing people who ‘look like you’ for our psychological well-being? What is the value of having representation in fashion, media and popular culture?
Is fashion dictating the way we should live?
Recent years have seen lifestyle elements incorporated into fashion and beauty retail experiences. Young people are increasingly turning to design, music and food to showcase their tastes and status. Find out what psychology has to say about the way we live is impacting our fashion choices.
Why do we love Barbiecore?
Not only has the new Barbie movie taken over our feeds and group chats but its namesake trend, Barbiecore, has found its way into our wardrobes and home decor too. Explore what psychology has to say about why we're all obsessed with Barbiecore.
Is personal style going out of fashion?
Instagram face, ‘core’-ism and the psychology of sameness. How unique are our fashion choices, really? Explore the psychology behind personal style, trends and the role that uniqueness plays in leading people to dress the way they do.
Are people still wanting a human experience from fashion?
Explore the shifting relationships between emerging technologies, creativity and people to better understand how technological innovations are influencing the fashion industry and the humans who help produce and sustain it.
Quiet luxury and loud inequality: why do we want to dress like the 1%?
What is causing the latest trend of people wanting to dress like the wealthy? What are the cultural contexts and motivations for aspirational dressing? Explore what psychology has to say about our latest obsession with luxury dressing in this article.
The Psychology of clothes renting
The last few years have seen an increasing number of companies offering fashion rental services but their popularity of use has lagged somewhat behind all the buzz. Why might this be?
Explore how psychology can help identify the behaviours and traits which may make someone more likely to rent clothes as well as any potential barriers to uptake.
Boom or Bust: how will inflation impact our fashion buying?
With rising inflation and a cost of living crisis, on top of dealing with post-pandemic supply chain issues - the state of fashion looks grim for retailers. However, consumer sentiment is ever-changing, so how might a looming financial crisis actually affect buying behaviours?
Does outrage sell?
Discussions on social media can facilitate offline change. However, the role that online outrage targeted against brands has in affecting their market performance is challenged by several psychological mechanisms. Explore how in the article.