Social media apps such as Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest have become a primary source of fashion inspiration for teens. Nearly 50% percent of present-day youth find their fashion tips on social media, according to a 2025 study by the International Journal of Advanced Mass Communication and Journalism. 

Students admit they have been influenced by global trends, and some are creating their own unique fashion styles.  

Sophomore Dayona Cohee found her favorite style through social media.  

“It helps me find different outfits, clothing and shoe brands that I would be comfortable wearing and liking,” Cohee said.  

Through her social media feed, Cohee gets inspiration from content creators, football players and people all over the internet.  

“I love Timberland boots; they’re my No. 1 favorites shoes, and I also like sneakers,” Cohee said. “I love to wear a good baggy outfit, some jorts and a good baggy shirt and good streetwear.”

Brands also use social media to add to the rise of impactful trends that go viral. These trends encourage frequent purchases, particularly from fast fashion brands. 

Sophomore Winston Smith has come across brands that help him find shoes.  

“The way social media impacts shoe style is if you see a shoe that you like on social media you can buy it, wear them,” Smith said. “But I usually don’t do that because I like shoes that stick out.”  

Smith’s favorites shoes are GOAT tabis, which he discovered through the brand “Worst Case.”

Though, junior Nicholas Circello doesn’t necessarily like what he called “hype things,” he believes social media will influence certain generations and cultures.  

“I feel like social media can influence a type of style a shoe, the color or a new drop,” Circello said. 

Freshman Aubree Vickers uses social media to get a lot of ideas on what she wants to wear.  

“That’s why I’m mostly into Jordans, Nikes and Dunks,” Vickers said. “But I really got introduced to that by my mom and dad because they started me off young, so I just wear it now.” 

Social media has become a strong influence on teenage fashion, connecting youth to trends while also providing a platform for personal expression. As teens explore their style through these platforms, they navigate a world where individuality and inspiration can coexist, shaping the future of fashion.