Fashion is a broad term that can mean different things to different people. It can be the latest trends, a certain style of dress, or even a specific way of speaking. It can also be a fad or craze that sweeps through a society, like the popularity of a certain music genre or a particular hairstyle. Fashion can also be a particular way of expressing one’s individuality and creativity through clothing.
In the past, fashions have varied by social class, age, generation, occupation and geographical location. For example, some cultures have used fashion as a form of self-expression, while others have used it to demonstrate wealth and status. Today, fashion is a global phenomenon. It is influenced by many factors, including the economy, social and political changes, and new technologies.
The evolution of fashion has been accelerated by the rise of mass media, which spreads awareness of new styles quickly and widely. For example, magazines, television shows, websites, and social media platforms (such as Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter) all play an important role in influencing fashion trends. In addition, fashion shows and celebrity endorsements can also be significant influences on the public’s perception of current trends.
Although fashion is often associated with changing trends, it can also refer to a uniform style or the same styles that have been followed for a long time. Therefore, the word ‘fashion’ can sometimes imply a general uniformity or sameness, as in the case of the phrase “fashionably late”.
Some people follow fashions uncritically and without consideration for the impact of their actions on others, for example, if an older person dresses according to the fashion of younger persons they may look silly. Other people deliberately try to stand out from the crowd, for example by wearing clothes that are loud and garish.
People also use fashion to express their emotions or sentiments, for example, by wearing mourning jewellery following the death of a loved one. Others use it to show their support for a cause, such as by wearing a T-shirt bearing the logo of a sports team.
Developing a sense of style is a process that requires practice and experimentation. The best place to start is by observing other people. Use your everyday environment as your lab: sit in a cafe and watch the world go by, or visit a shopping centre and see how people are dressing. Be sure to include shoes, bags and hats in your observations as they are the finishing touches that can make or break an outfit. Adding these elements is the best way to give your personal style that unique touch. Once you have a basic understanding of what is in style now, it’s time to experiment! Start by trying out some styles, colours and silhouettes that are outside of your comfort zone. Take a notepad with you and either mentally or physically make notes about what you like and don’t like. Keep this up and you’ll soon begin to see a pattern.