Although trends might seem completely random, there are well-documented patterns to what becomes popular. A 20th century industrial designer [Raymond Loewy], who created some of America’s most iconic looks, developed a theory of coolness that has been backed up by various scientific studies. Derek Thompson, senior editor at The Atlantic, explains the science behind why we like what we like.
Loewy’s designs are truly memorable for their beauty, and I’ll not venture (and, of course, could not venture) to offer a competing theory. Instead, in the absense of a theory, I’ll suggest that one finds one’s own cool, as best as one can, contented thereafter in it.
Along these lines, I’ll offer Maria Popova’s recent essay concerning Kierkegaard on the Individual vs. the Crowd, Why We Conform, and the Power of the Minority.