Fashion is the prevailing style or trend of clothing, footwear, makeup, and accessories in a particular period and place. It can also refer to general conventions that society conforms to or an attitude or manner, though it is primarily used in the sense of fashion of clothing.
Several factors influence what is considered fashionable, including social status and occupation, religious beliefs, cultural customs, and even the economic situation of a society. For example, in medieval times, certain types of clothes were set aside for nobles and those of higher status in society. People in the clergy wore specific colors and materials that told others a lot about their religion. Other types of clothes defined those engaged in certain professions, such as scribes and astrologers.
In a more modern context, many styles of clothing have become part of the fashion industry and are marketed through high-end designers, mass-market retailers, and social media. These companies advertise the latest trends, which can change rapidly.
One of the biggest sources of information about fashion comes from fashion magazines, as they report on the latest trends in a variety of ways. They also feature models, who often walk the catwalk wearing a range of different outfits.
Another source of information about fashion comes from media coverage, which can include news articles and television shows. This information can help fashion designers determine what to design and sell, as well as give them insight into the lives of their consumers.
This information can also be useful for people looking to become designers themselves, as it will help them know what types of clothes their consumers want to see. This will increase their sales and profits.
The fashion industry is a multibillion-dollar global enterprise that produces and markets clothes for men, women, and children. Its main product categories are apparel and accessories, with each specialized in different styles of clothing.
Some of these fashions may be very expensive and may be only worn by a few individuals or celebrities. These are called haute couture.
Other fashions may be less expensive and are aimed at the general public, such as street styles or sportswear. These are often sold in malls and outlets across the country.
The popularity of these styles can be measured by the number of consumers who purchase them, as well as how quickly they sell. This can be measured in a variety of ways, but the most common is by tracking the diffusion rate.
This diffusion rate usually results in a bell-shaped curve, with early innovators creating new styles and fashion leaders picking up these styles. As these leaders wear them, other people pick up the trend, which creates a new generation of fashionistas.
As a result of these cycles, there are no absolute standards for what is or is not fashionable. This is especially true in the U.S. where there is a wide variety of cultures and communities.