Growing up in Essex certainly informed my thoughts around fashion; fashion existed within a clearly recognisable framework shaped by both the media and social influence. If I say the term 'Essex girl,' you more than likely already have a clear picture in your head, largely influenced by the cultural footprint of The Only Way Is Essex. Furry coats, heavy fake tan, bleach blonde extensions, Shein two-pieces and a fake Louis Vuitton bag from Romford Market. Statement glam and business chic-inspired outfits are favoured, where presentation is less about personal taste and more about meeting a certain standard of hyper-femininity. Even when dressed down, other personal maintenance is required, such as a blowout, filler and sunbeds. An unattainable standard is imposed from a young age, with every girl following suit to achieve the look. The lack of fashion variety means there is often judgment towards anyone who dresses outside of this mould.
I viewed fashion as a search for acceptance rather than expressing myself...
Despite never fully conforming to this specific aesthetic, I still felt the pressure to shy away from what I truly felt comfortable in. Throughout my teenage years, my style shape-shifted repeatedly as I attempted to relocate myself within the boundaries of exploring my identity. From grunge and streetwear to cottage core and bohemian styles, it felt as though if I was not one recognisable thing, I had to become another. As a result, I viewed fashion as a search for acceptance rather than expressing myself in pieces that I genuinely loved. Even casual social settings carried this unspoken expectation to look put together, and I think this followed me through to university, where if I don't attend a lecture dressed in a coherent, matching outfit, I feel uncomfortable, like others may perceive me as lazy and unorganised.
The city's alternative cultural spaces, where music and fashion often intersect, play a significant role in this environment.
Moving to Newcastle opened me up to a fresh world of fashion shaped less by uniformity and more by diversity. Surrounded by students from all different regions, backgrounds and creative influences, I began to encounter styles that honed in on individuality rather than expectation. The city's alternative cultural spaces, where music and fashion often intersect, play a significant role in this environment. Venues such as Zerox, the Grove and the Cluny function not just as social places but as sites for visual expression and fostering creative communities. Different areas of the city also carry distinct aesthetic signatures; in Jesmond, for instance, I often notice relaxed elegance with loose linen pieces and bright oversized knitwear, closely resembling the "coastal grandmother" look, accompanied by the recently viral taco styling method.
Newcastle's variety of fashion outlet options supported this shift with its plethora of vintage stores, independent boutiques and markets that offered an alternative to fast-fashion that previously dominated my wardrobe. Flaura Rose in Ouseburn is one staple store for me, housing items from multiple female-owned small businesses that make each purchase feel personal and unique. Tynemouth Market is another favourite, full of quirky handmade accessories to spice up your outfits from their myriad of stalls. The Yesterday Society in Grainger Market is the place for vintage garments, everything from denim and slip dresses to scarves, sunglasses and sports attire. For more budget-friendly finds, the British Red Cross charity shop on Nun Street often sells deadstock from stores like Zara and Bershka for a lower price.
The practical aspect also undoubtedly applies, with Newcastle having colder temperatures, being located further north, layering is essential. Moving to Newcastle meant the weather informed my style evolution: chunky knits, scarves and jackets were functional necessities and integral parts of my outfits. Pairing textures, patterns and accessories to create visually appealing looks while adapting to one's environment.
My clothing became a medium through which I could proudly display who I am and what I care about.
Gradually, my clothing began to reflect my personal interests a lot more, such as music and film-themed graphic t-shirts. I started crafting my own necklaces and earrings with radiant crystals and my mum's vintage beads. I incorporated belts and bags that matched the mood and colour palette of each outfit. I started to feel much more authentic and comfortable in what I was wearing, rather than feeling like I was performing as something I wasn't. My clothing became a medium through which I could proudly display who I am and what I care about. Being away from home and living in Newcastle gave me the freedom to make this transformation feel possible, and I will forever have gratitude to the beautiful city for giving my wardrobe a well-needed makeover.