Every couple of years, a new video game begins to trend, filling social media platforms with its content through videos and memes. Notable examples throughout the years have been games like Pokémon Go, “Fortnite” and “Among Us.” In November 2023, the quick, fun and fashionable Roblox game, “Dress to Impress,” was released before quickly rising to popularity. Currently, the game has been played over 3.1 billion times, with an average of around 250,000 active players a day.  

It’s not surprising that “Dress to Impress” has captured the hearts of so many people. One reason is its accessibility: It is free to play and download on various platforms like PC and mobile devices. More importantly, the gameplay experience is simple and user-friendly. Because there is no need for good hand-eye coordination or fast reflexes, the only skill needed to enjoy this game is being fashionable and creative, making it approachable for players of different ages and gaming experiences. 

The most important quality of “Dress to Impress” is player freedom, as it allows the game to stay engaging and relevant. The game contains copious amounts of clothing items, shoes, accessories and hair and makeup styles, allowing players to layer pieces, patterns, textures and colors in innovative ways to create a multitude of complex and detailed outfits. Players can also use Robux, Roblox’s in-game currency, to create a custom theme. The ability for users to choose the theme prevents the game from ever feeling dull, creating opportunities for uniquely eccentric and hilarious gameplay. Some of the most entertaining custom themes I’ve seen are “eggnog” and “coconut tree.” These are the themes that push players to think outside the box and create unconventional outfits, which are not only humorous but refreshing to see after many rounds of serious themes. 

The game occasionally provides updates and codes so players can constantly access new clothing items that fit the current trends. For instance, on Aug. 17, “Dress to Impress” released a limited-time “brat” update for Charli XCX’s album, where new clothing in the iconic “brat” neon green became available along with recognizable clothes that she has worn in her album and even accessories like the “brat” apple. Later this October, “Dress to Impress” users are expecting a big Halloween update with hopes of getting new styles and content. When the game is not undergoing a big update, players can redeem exclusive clothes or accessories from codes that can be found in official “Dress to Impress” groups or other third-party game guides.  

Just as “Dress to Impress” feeds off of fashion phenomena and pop culture to fuel its cultural rise, perhaps it too will impact fashion trends in the very culture it pulls from.