modnik

Modnik (Russian: модник) is a slang term used in Russian-speaking contexts to describe a person who closely follows fashion trends and places emphasis on appearance. The word is gendered in Slavic languages, with masculine and feminine variants in Russian, and has cognate forms in Polish and other languages.

Etymology and meaning: It derives from moda, meaning fashion, with the suffix -nik, producing a noun for a person associated with fashion. The term can be neutral when simply describing someone fashion-conscious, but it is often used pejoratively to suggest superficial trend-chasing rather than genuine style.

Usage: In journalism, blogs, and everyday speech, modnik is used to characterize someone as trend-obsessed or image-focused. It is common in urban and youth culture and can be applied to both men and women, though tone varies by context.

Variants and cultural notes: In post-Soviet media and memes, modnik appears in satire and social commentary about consumer culture and fast fashion. Related terms include fashion, fashionista, and other slang descriptors of style.