Link: ‘The new digital flex’: the airport tray trend stirring outrage and delight

Online, airport security trays have inspired the "airport tray aesthetic," where people artfully arrange and photograph their belongings in trays. This trend, sometimes called "TSA tray aesthetic," features everything from minimalist designs to more chaotic displays.

Some view these compositions as a waste of time or a subtle boast, while others see it as a fun expression of personal style and creativity. "In my art director era," Piper Taich titled her creative post of stylishly arranged trays.

Piper Taich, a professional graphic designer, finds joy in creating pleasing visual compositions, both for work with food and leisure with accessories. Her stylized tray displays are centered on 'having fun' and creativity.

Businesses, particularly from fashion and skincare sectors, are embracing this trend to showcase their products. For instance, Faber and August Noa use trays to display book themes and designer accessories, respectively.

According to J’Nae Phillips, a trend analyst, airport tray photos have become "the latest form of digital flexing." This evolving trend mixes travel excitement with a showcase of aspirational lifestyles, marking a 2024 update to #foodstagram.

Despite criticisms about causing delays, content creators like Chelsea Henriquez ensure they prepare their trays without inconveniencing other travelers, setting it up post-security. Such activities underscore the significant, yet often underestimated impact of content creation as a professional field. #

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