The Tumblr mustache, the 2020 mushroom fashion, and now the current bow trend all have one thing in common: they are/were the new hot thing. 

Hair trends, like bows in the hair, reflect shifts in societal norms and aesthetics over time. Initially popularized as a symbol of femininity and innocence in the 1950s, bows underwent a resurgence in 2024 as part of the larger trend of flamboyant fashion. 

This evolution demonstrates how cultural values surrounding femininity and self-expression have changed. 

Similarly, the mushroom-style trend on TikTok amid the global pandemic echoed the desire for nostalgia and individuality, drawing inspiration from retro aesthetics. 

This trend served as a form of self-expression, challenging conventional beauty standards and embracing uniqueness. 

Conversely, the “mustache” trend on Tumblr in 2014 showcased the influence of social media on fashion. It emerged as a form of irony, with primarily women adopting mustaches. 

Yet the women participating in this trend wanted nothing more than to give off the “not like other girls” aesthetic, reflecting a shift towards gender fluidity and challenging stereotypes.

Although the bows are beloved everywhere right now, this is exactly how it was with the mustache as well as the mushrooms, which are now deemed as “cringe”. 

This begs the question: is history repeating itself?

These trends are constantly evolving and reflect the dynamic nature of society and culture. They serve as visual markers of societal values and attitudes towards gender, individuality, and self-expression. 

Bows in the hair, for example, initially symbolized innocence but later became a statement of bold fashion choices, reflecting changing perceptions of femininity. 

The mushroom-style trend on TikTok, meanwhile, emphasized nostalgia and uniqueness, indicating a desire to break away from mainstream ideals. 

The “mustache” trend on Tumblr highlighted the influence of digital communities on fashion, showcasing how online platforms shape cultural norms and perceptions.

Moreover, these trends have ripple effects on society and culture. They influence consumer behavior, driving demand for certain products and services while shaping the fashion industry’s direction. 

Bows in the hair, for instance, led to a surge in hair accessory sales, while the mushroom style trend sparked interest in retro-inspired clothing and hairstyles. 

Additionally, these trends impact self-image and identity formation, as individuals use fashion as a means of self-expression and belonging. 

The adoption of mustaches on Tumblr, for example, allowed individuals to explore and challenge traditional notions of gender and masculinity, promoting inclusivity and acceptance.

The evolution of trends such as bows in the hair, the mushroom style trend on TikTok, and the “mustache” trend on Tumblr reflects the ever-changing landscape of societal values, aesthetics, and identity. 

They serve as mirrors reflecting the zeitgeist of their respective eras while shaping cultural narratives and influencing individual expression. 

Mustaches reflect a time in which women were trying to pull away from the generic “girly” style and go more towards a masculine style. 

Mushrooms mark an era in which people felt trapped in their homes so started experimenting with a more gender-neutral symbol to style.

Thus whether or not bows will be deemed as “cringe” later will give insight into the cultural time of this era.