Fashion is a distinctive and often variable mode of expression that is based on social, cultural and economic factors. The fashion industry, a multibillion-dollar global enterprise, creates and promotes trends in clothing and accessories that are then sold to consumers. It is a form of self-expression and social affiliation, as well as a means to demonstrate one’s status.
Different times and cultures have favored certain styles of clothing over others. Some of these styles have become classics, such as a suit and tie, a blazer and knee-length skirt, or jeans. Others, such as the kilt or kimono, have been worn for centuries and remain popular today, perhaps because they give the wearer a sense of authority and power, or because they are associated with particular religions or occupations.
In addition, the availability of new fabrics and textiles can influence a fashion trend. The rise of synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester and acrylic have allowed designers to produce more lightweight and comfortable clothing for men, women and children. This has led to the popularity of a number of styles such as athletic wear, yoga pants and t-shirts with retro vibes. Gender-inclusive fashion and eco-friendly clothing are also trending.
While some people embrace the changes in fashion as a way to express their creativity, others see it as a form of consumerism. It is suggested that the speed with which fashions change encourages waste and encourages people to spend money they don’t necessarily need, or that it forces people into buying clothes to stay relevant and “in-style”.
It is difficult to determine what exactly defines a fashion; it can be a way of dressing, a type of behaviour or an attitude. The words style, fashion, mod, vogue and fad suggest a specific taste or the latest trend among those with discerning tastes; while caprice and craze suggest intense enthusiasm for a particular fad.
The most common meaning of fashion is a style that is widely adopted at a given time, especially in the realm of clothing. The earliest references to fashion as a distinct discipline appear in the 17th century, when it was used to refer to a particular style of hat. The term then expanded to encompass clothing, footwear and accessories. By the middle of the 19th century, a distinction was made between high fashion, exemplified by designers such as Coco Chanel and Hubert de Givenchy, and mass-produced clothing, but in the 21st century, the lines between these different forms of fashion have blurred. In the present day, it is not uncommon for designers to design in one country and manufacture elsewhere, a practice that has contributed to the worldwide success of many fashion brands. Fashion is often influenced by the media, with journalists and bloggers spreading trends and advice. Various platforms allow people to share their own style, including through videos and photos on websites such as Instagram and TikTok. This has contributed to the development of a global fashion culture.