Before COVID 19 started to kick our behinds, most of us, ladies, obsessed over what to wear, what's in fashion, and what's trending. Now, it's time to take back control over what you truly need and want.

At one point, the whole world stopped, and it felt terrifying. That moment also reminded us that what matters are people, and of course, our health. So how do fashion and beauty trends fit into our pandemic experiences?

The business of fashion brings billions, but the real workers, people way behind the scenes, aren't getting any part of it. In fact, the simple truth is that fashion is a sexist, misogynistic, racist business, yet we are all addicted to it.

Trends and their roles in your lives

Must have, it girls and specific shades for each new season are superficial fun. But, overspending, feeling like crap because you can't afford some stupid coat, or having your child throwing a tantrum over another pair of hit sneakers is exhausting, depressing, and useless.

Trends will continue to exist. But Vogue and designer shoes can kiss your behind. To paraphrase the rock-n-roll dinosaurs, you can't always get what you want, but you might get what you need."

The real necessities

Apart from personal hygiene, we don't need as much as the fashion world wants us to think.

And it's more than just saving money: when you stop healing every wound with a new piece of makeup or clothes, you're doing your part for the environment.

Show youngsters that they are more than the newest cell phones or perfect little Instagram-ready outfits. Let's show them that what we need money cannot buy.

Before we continue, let's get one thing straight: no one says you shouldn't spend your money the way you want to. If you truly enjoy shopping, that's your thing. But you are perfect just the way you are, so think about that.

You don't have to have the perfect nails from the salon, nor do you need to have the perfect beach waves whenever you go out for groceries. However, when you want to treat yourself, do it. It's supposed to be your reward, not something you have to do or have.

Body negativity and racism in fashion

Fashion designers, at least the most famous ones, will never promote healthy bodies. They don't want your perfectly natural curves to "destroy" their visions.

But the fashionistas don't stop spreading body negativity. Seeing a black model on a cover looks like an achievement. It's 2020. Do we really need to celebrate something as natural as a beautiful gal who is not white?

And finally, where is that feminism? We keep seeing massive headlines, but how many female designers are there?

Giant companies are using women as trendsetters. They are exploiting us to gain more of our money. And it's about time we take control, hence, become mindful shoppers.

Switch trends for support

In these uncertain times, it's essential to support small businesses.

Teach yourself to be a mindful shopper by choosing local designers who put quality over quantity.

Instead of covering yourself in labels, give someone a chance to make it, and that's how you become a part of the solution.

On your quest to spend money more wisely, you can choose to support companies that do some good for black women and children, for LGBTQ people, as well as those who give money to nonprofit organizations.

While it's not as easy as scrolling and adding items to your shopping basket, it will make you prouder, more involved, proactive. Instead of choosing trends, choose people, and give them your money.

As someone who spent years chasing fashion trends, I can promise you that living without being obsessed with clothes and beauty products gives you more time to be you. And to take better care of the most person in your life - yourself!

It's time to take a stand, and you can start by choosing not to be fashion's latest victim!