I spoke with Molly Rooyakkers (@style.analytics) about how trends can sometimes feel huge online—but don’t always show up in real life. We got into the nuance of interpreting digital trend cycles and how sometimes what looks like a viral trend is really just a curated moment that doesn’t break through beyond the screen.

We also talked about sustainability—how her platform walks the line between showing trends people are drawn to (often through fast fashion) while still encouraging mindful consumption. Molly emphasizes using what you already have, repurposing existing wardrobes, and building a personal style narrative instead of constantly chasing the next new thing.

What really stood out to me was how she translates raw data into thoughtful storytelling. Whether it’s recession-core theories like “the big bag” making a return or why skinny jeans come back around, she’s not just presenting numbers—she’s giving them context. That’s the real art of Style Analytics: turning charts and numbers into culturally relevant, useful insight for people who just need a little inspiration.

This episode also gets real about content creation. We talked about the balance of working a 9–5 while building an online presence, the creative burnout that comes with constant production, and the tension between monetizing a platform and keeping it passion-driven. Molly’s in a space a lot of creators can relate to—loving her current career while still wanting to explore the possibilities of what her online voice can become.

Follow Molly Rooyakkers / Style Analytics: Instagram: @style.analytics Substack: styleanalytics.substack.com

Find the host Claire Vastola and the podcast online:Listen to Through the Back Door on Spotify and other streaming platforms.Follow me on Instagram: ⁠@girlintofashion⁠For fashion networking, follow ⁠@workinginfashion⁠Read more on Substack: ⁠https://workinginfashion.substack.com/⁠

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