\n<\/p>\n
Roach had a particularly biting observation about what replaced the old system: \u201cCriticism has become the new way to build community.\u201d<\/p>\n
That one stopped me. Entire online communities are now built around shared dislike: a celebrity, a designer, a stylist, a trend, a nepo baby, a red-carpet look. The algorithm, which has never been accused of encouraging nuance, rewards outrage. The meaner the take, the more engagement it gets. Traditional fashion media may have backed away from harsh sartorial criticism, but the internet certainly hasn\u2019t. In fact, it\u2019s much better at it. (And by better, I mean worse.)<\/p>\n
Which is another reason Roach isn\u2019t feeling a worst dressed list. The internet democratized fashion criticism, but it didn\u2019t democratize expertise. He believes unpopular opinions should exist\u2014they should just come from people who know what they\u2019re talking about. \u201cThese lists and these things should be curated by people who actually have some insight in the industry,\u201d Roach said. \u201cPeople who have proven that they have some sense of taste and some credibility.\u201d<\/p>\n
Of course, insiders have their own problem: They want to remain insiders. \u201cYou need people to do these lists [who are] not trying to get invited to the fashion show,\u201d Roach said. Touch\u00e9! The influencer wants the invitation. The editor needs access. The stylist needs the dress. The celebrity has the contract. The magazine wants the celebrity. The fashion house needs everybody. And suddenly\u2014miraculously!\u2014everyone looks fabulous.<\/p>\n