Where Style Meets Self Discovery

November 13, 2024

Bella Goldberg

Graphics by Emma Leifer

The number 21 in numerology is associated with creativity, independence, and personal growth. For many, the 21st birthday symbolizes a significant milestone, marking the transition into a new phase of life. It is often seen as a moment for bold self-expression, especially in taking risks with their choices and curating their style with confidence. The power of 21 is undeniable; it represents newfound freedom and the perfect time to embody beauty through daring fashion. As people explore their identities, they align seamlessly with the ever-evolving world of fashion.  

At 21, many people embark on a new chapter of self-discovery and personal growth, with fashion serving as a catalyst for expressing their individuality. This period involves breaking free from their childhood influences, experimenting with adventurous styles, and uncovering what truly resonates with their sense of self. Fashion becomes a form of creative experimentation: a playground. One day they might embrace the minimalist “clean girl” aesthetic, and the next, they could be drawn to loud animal print patterns. At this age, exploring a range of styles to see what aligns with their personality and lifestyle is almost necessary, like a rite of passage. By testing different looks, 21-year-olds not only discover how they want to look and what makes them feel confident, but also begin to define who they want to be.

As social consciousness grows among this demographic, companies are increasingly prioritizing sustainable and ethical practices to align with their consumers’ values. For example, Patagonia joined the Zero Emission Maritime Buyers Alliance to purchase fuel in bulk, making it more sustainable to ship worldwide. Other companies, such as Girlfriend Collective and Eillen Fisher have also been implementing similar initiatives directly linked to the rising demand for eco-friendly options, thereby attracting socially conscious consumers.

By offering customization and personalization, companies empower 21-year-olds to define their own styles, establishing deep-rooted relationships with clients and encouraging brand loyalty. Through analytics and predictive modeling, companies can identify their high value customers and deliver targeted promotions towards them. 

“a catalyst for expressing” individuality

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