Fashion is a multi billion dollar industry and reflects the changing cultural dynamics of society. Different eras, social movements and even political upheaval can be seen through the clothing styles of that time. The latest trends and progressions are always being explored by designers who create clothing lines that feature the most current styles and colours, these fashions often have a wide appeal.
Clothes are an expression of personality and they can also reflect a person’s lifestyle. For example a judge may wear a robe while people in the military wear uniforms and brides often wear white dresses symbolising purity and innocence. Fashion is also a form of identification, some people choose to identify with a certain brand or style while others prefer to be unique and stand out from the crowd.
Many a person has changed their style over the years as they find who they are and what suits them best. This is especially true during adolescence as they experiment with what they like and don’t like. Fashion changes rapidly and is influenced by everything from large social events to what’s on television. The most successful designers are those who can create a look that is both current and timeless.
As well as a source of entertainment and inspiration fashion is a way for people to express themselves, with designers creating looks that are often bold and daring, reflecting a generation unafraid to be individualistic. The newest trends are often announced at fashion shows featuring models wearing the latest designs. The public can then purchase the items from stores once they have been approved by the designers.
Fashion can have a positive impact on the economy as it encourages people to spend money on new clothes. It can also promote diversity, allowing those with different body shapes and sizes to be dressed in flattering ways. Fashion can also be used as a tool for protest, with designers taking a stance on political issues such as gender equality and environmental pollution.
Trends are determined by a number of things, from what is on TV and in films to what’s popular amongst celebrities and music groups. It is also affected by the season and weather, with warm weather leading to a rise in short sleeved T-shirts and sundresses while cold weather leads to jackets and knitted jumpers being worn.
A fashion shift is currently occurring as the industry is placing a greater emphasis on sustainability and ethical production. Designers are using environmentally friendly fabrics and ensuring their workers are paid fair wages. This is a response to the public becoming more aware of how their clothing is made and the effects it has on the environment. It is hoped that this move towards sustainable fashion will continue to grow and become the norm in the future. This will be a change from the current fast fashion model that has been prevalent in recent times where retailers produce cheaply made clothes that quickly become out of date.