Fashion is a global industry with millions of people involved in the design, manufacture and distribution of clothing. It reflects and unites cultures, with trends in clothing influencing beliefs and moods. Fashion is a form of self-expression, with styles ranging from streetwear to haute couture. It can be influenced by music, art, culture and events, with boundary-pushing styles, such as Lady Gaga’s meat dress, inspiring others to express themselves creatively.
Clothing serves many practical purposes, including keeping us warm and protecting us from the elements. But it also reveals our identity, reflecting who we are, what we value, and how we interact with society. Clothing can even be used as a symbol of status, with judges wearing robes and soldiers wearing uniforms. Fashion is a powerful medium that influences people globally and inspires creativity.
The term ‘fashion’ has come to mean a particular style or look, but it actually represents a complex cultural phenomenon that can be analysed through the lens of anthropology, sociology, psychology, semiotics and history of art and design. The articles in this subject guide explore this phenomenon through the lens of art and design, with a particular focus on women’s fashion, high fashion and the work of individual designers.
From the earliest civilisations, clothing has been both functional and symbolic. In Ancient Egypt, garments were made from fine fabrics such as linen and depicted hieroglyphic patterns that conveyed social status. Later, the Greeks and Romans adopted draped styles, with togas and chitons emphasising simplicity and elegance. In medieval Europe, clothing became increasingly ornate, with gowns and corsets displaying elaborate embroidery and embellishments.
In contemporary society, fashion is both an expression of individuality and a vehicle for social change. From the start of feminism, skirts began to represent freedom and emancipation, while cassocks became associated with a nun’s renunciation of vanity. In the age of the internet and mass media, fashion is constantly evolving to meet changing consumer demands and reflect broader societal changes.
As fashion becomes ever more integrated into our daily lives, the boundaries between fashionable and anti-fashion are blurred. For example, elements of traditional ethnic dress might become incorporated into catwalk and street culture trends, while tattoos once used by sailors, labourers and criminals might be adopted as part of the fashion mainstream.
Despite this, it is important to remember that, although fashionable, clothes are often designed to be worn by a specific group or demographic. As such, they can reinforce stereotypes and create distance between groups. In high school, for example, certain styles can define groups, with students being nicknamed as goths, skaters and herbs based on their appearance. This can lead to negative reactions, such as bullying and discrimination. This is why it’s essential to wear what makes you feel confident and comfortable, regardless of whether it’s in style or not.