fashionista

A fashionista is a person who is highly interested in fashion and closely follows trends. They typically curate a distinctive wardrobe with attention to fit, color, and silhouette, and may draw on a range of price points. A fashionista often has knowledge of designers, fabrics, and seasonal palettes and tracks runway shows, lookbooks, and fashion publications to inform their choices. The term is widely used in media and everyday speech to describe individuals who exert influence at the intersection of style and culture.

Etymology and usage: the word combines “fashion” with the Italian-derived suffix “-ista” and began to appear in English in the late 20th century. It has since become common in magazines, blogs, and social media, though its exact meaning can vary by context. The label can describe enthusiasts, trend followers, or professionals who emphasize personal style.

Role and perception: in contemporary language, fashionistas may be consumers, bloggers, stylists, or influencers who curate outfits, share fashion advice, attend events, and sometimes set trends. The term is not limited to industry insiders and may be self-applied or assigned by others. In some circles it connotes expertise and discernment; in others it can be perceived as elitist or superficial.

Related concepts: fashion blogger, street style, trendsetter, style icon, and fashion influencer are often used alongside or in place of fashionista, depending on context and emphasis on industry involvement, professional status, or social-media reach.