Tall Poppy Syndrome, Authenticity & Fashion: Why Trying Something New and Not Giving a F*ck is the Ultimate Power Move

In Australia, tall poppy syndrome is alive and well—especially when you dare to try something new. You wear something a little different, take a risk with your style, do something unexpected—and suddenly, people have something to say. But here’s the truth: I’m not saying these people shouldn’t pull their heads in—they absolutely should. The negativity, the judgment, the jealousy—it says way more about them than it does about you. But if you don’t let it affect you, and you stay focused on your own lane, then it doesn’t matter what they say. They’re usually miserably sitting behind a screen anyway. Let’s be honest—can you imagine a happy, fulfilled person trying to tear someone else down? No. That person doesn’t exist.

Trying something new in fashion isn’t about attention—it’s about evolution. And as long as you’re doing something you authentically like, something that feels true to you, then the opinions of others are completely irrelevant. You’re not here to follow the crowd—you’re here to explore your identity, your creativity, your expression. That’s the point. That’s where the magic happens.

The people who make waves—the ones who build something real, who become known for their style or their vision—they all got judged. Every single one of them. The difference? They didn’t take it personally. They took the useful feedback and left the rest. And that’s something worth remembering: focus only on the feedback that offers improvement, not the kind that comes wrapped in bitterness. There’s a huge difference between guidance and judgment. One helps you grow. The other just wants to keep you small.

Fashion is personal. It’s a statement of who you are becoming. Trying new things is part of that process. It’s not about being right or on trend—it’s about being you. And the more you honour that, the more powerful your style becomes.

So wear the thing. Post the look. Clash the patterns. Mix the eras. As long as it’s something you love, something that feels right in your gut—then that’s all that matters. Style isn’t about impressing others. It’s about expressing yourself. And the people who get it will always get it. The rest? Let them talk. You’ve got better things to do.

What’s the next style risk you’re thinking of taking?