De-influencing and the Meaning of Less Is More Explained
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The hashtag #tiktokmademebuyit has over 9.6 million videos and over 40 billion views. Some good and helpful. Some not so good and not so helpful. It’s really unbelievable the amount of “influencing” going on. Do you even know what’s genuine anymore?
I too have fallen into the trap of buying something that I was “influenced” to buy because it looked so good on the influencer and I’m kinda over the whole influencer trend. Like when do people live normal lives and just be happy.
What about you? Have you had enough of being sold to? What do you think about influencers telling you what to buy, what to wear, and how to live? And some of them making you feel bad about it.
Well, if you’re over it, De-influencers are here to flip the script. They’re the ones who say, “Nah, you don’t need that.” They call out the hype, question the trends, and remind us that less is more.
I’m not talking about anti-consumerism. I’m not saying anti-anything. De-influencers are real, raw, and unapologetically honest. They tell you when something’s trash and when it’s just another overpriced gimmick. It’s a breath of fresh air in a world obsessed with shiny new things.
In this article, I’m breaking down de-influencing and introducing you to a few new de-influencers to follow because de-influencing isn’t a trend. It’s a rebellion—rejecting the idea that you need the latest and greatest to be happy. Sometimes, the best advice isn’t what to add to your cart but what to leave out.
The World of Advertising
The world of advertising has gotten sneakier. Brands aren’t just running commercials anymore—they’re using influencers to subtly push their products right into your social media feeds. You scroll through Instagram, TikTok, or YouTube, and there it is: the latest gadget, skincare routine, or home decor that you didn’t even know you needed until someone told you it was a must-have. Sometimes, it’s helpful. You find a great product that actually solves a problem. But most of the time, it’s not. It’s just another thing to add to your cart, another impulse buy fueled by the fear of missing out.
The real kicker? Influencers make it look so effortless like that new serum will change your skin overnight or that expensive blender will finally make you love green smoothies. But let’s be real—most of us don’t have the money to keep up with the constant flow of recommendations. The pressure to buy, to upgrade, and to fit in can be overwhelming, and unless you’ve got ironclad self-control, it’s all too easy to give in.
That’s where de-influencers come in. They’re here to tell you that it’s okay to take a step back, to question whether you really need that next trendy thing. Because the truth is, most of the stuff we buy on a whim doesn’t add much value to our lives. De-influencers are the voices of reason in a world that’s constantly pushing us to consume, reminding us that it’s not about having more, but about making smarter choices with what we already have.
De-influencers Worth Following
De-influencers are like the friend you need to talk you out of that purchase you probably don’t need. They’re helping you find value in what truly matters. Here are a few de-influencers that I enjoy listening to.
1. Michelle Kidelsky (Tik Tok)
@michelleskidelsky returning for duty 🫡🫡🫡 #deinfluencing
Michelle Kidesleky is all about pushing back against the constant urge to consume. With over 180,000 followers, she goes deep into the pitfalls of impulsive buying and provides honest reviews that often go against the grain of what mainstream influencers are promoting.
Michelle’s transparency, combined with her practical advice on living a more intentional and clutter-free life, makes her a standout in the de-influencing community. She not only helps you save money but also encourages a lifestyle that prioritizes experiences and genuine satisfaction over material possessions.
2. Kimberly Clark (YouTube, Instagram)
Kimberly Clark is a Youtuber known for her “anti-haul” videos, where she breaks down all the products she’s not buying and explains why you shouldn’t either. She has over 67,000 followers for a reason. These videos are the antidote to the endless hauls that dominate YouTube with a much-needed perspective on why you don’t need every new makeup palette or trendy item. Her humorous, candid delivery is entertaining if nothing else.
3. Conscious Chatter (Podcast)
Conscious Chatter is a podcast that talks about the intersection of fashion, consumerism, and conscious living, challenging the status quo of influencer-driven culture. Hosted by Kestrel Jenkins, the podcast’s mission is to unravel the layers of the fashion industry and spark conversations that encourage listeners to think critically about their buying habits.
Along with her co-host Nat, she shares thoughtful discussions with industry experts, activists, and everyday consumers on the real impact of our choices—both on people and the planet. Their episodes tackle topics like de-influencing, ethical production, and the environmental costs of fast fashion, pushing back against the relentless push to buy more.
4. Jessica Braun (YouTube)
Jessica Braun has over 657,000 followers on Youtube. She made a name for herself by pushing back against the constant churn of new makeup and skincare products. She regularly revisits older products in her collection, urging her viewers to find value in what they already own rather than constantly buying the next big thing. Her approach is relatable and down-to-earth, offering practical advice on making smarter buying decisions. Use what you have first.
5. Hannah Louise Poston
Hannah Louise Poston became known for her “no-buy year” challenge, where she completely stopped buying non-essential items and shared her journey on YouTube. She gives her 167,000 followers content that focuses on consumer habits, personal finance, and finding happiness outside of material things. She provides a nuanced look at the emotional side of shopping and the freedom that comes from saying no to unnecessary purchases.
The Future of De-influencing
The future of de-influencing looks bright, and it’s not just a passing phase. As more people seek authenticity over aesthetics, the demand for honest, unfiltered advice will only grow.
Brands may not love it, but consumers do. De-influencers are here to stay, and they’re not just changing what we buy—they’re changing how we think.
So, the next time you feel pressured to buy something because it’s trending, take a step back. Ask yourself if it’s really worth it. Because the best advice might just come from those telling you to keep your wallet closed.
Theresa is the founder and owner of Simple Is More from Beavercreek, Ohio. She is a nationally syndicated writer whose work has been featured on the Associated Press Wire, Blox Digital, and more. With a passion for words and a love for simplicity, Theresa has built a reputation as a trusted source on minimalism, home organization, budgeting, travel, and wellness. When she's not writing or tidying up, Theresa loves to explore new places, read a good book, and spend quality time with her family.