fashion

Fashion is the system through which clothing, accessories, and related beauty products are created, promoted, and worn within a society. It is influenced by culture, economics, technology, and media, and it serves as a means of personal expression and social communication. Fashion is not a fixed set of styles but a dynamic conversation about what people want to wear and why.

Historically, clothing began as functional attire but gradually became a marker of status and identity. In Europe from the 17th to 19th centuries, fashion houses and fashion capitals helped establish recognizable silhouettes and garments. The rise of ready-to-wear in the 20th century expanded access, while globalization and digital media accelerated rapid trend cycles and cross-cultural exchange.

Key components of fashion include textile choice, garment construction, and design. The fashion system comprises designers, manufacturers, retailers, media, and consumers. Major segments include haute couture, ready-to-wear, and fast fashion, with seasons and fashion weeks shaping collections and exposure, though regional calendars and independent designers also contribute to the pace of change.

Fashion has broad cultural significance, shaping identities, subcultures, and social signaling. It reflects political and economic contexts and can challenge or reinforce gender norms. Global production raises concerns about labor conditions and environmental impact, prompting interest in sustainable, ethical, and circular practices in materials, sourcing, and end-of-life disposal.

Overall, fashion is a continually evolving field at the intersection of art, industry, and everyday life, studied in disciplines such as design, history, and cultural studies.