Fashion is a multifaceted term used to describe the creation of clothing, footwear, accessories and cosmetics that reflect cultural aesthetics. It is commonly assumed that changes in fashion reflect societal change, though other factors can contribute to new styles, such as the desire for novelty and the financial interests of designers and manufacturers.
People who follow the latest trends in fashion are often referred to as “fashionistas.” The popularity of certain styles can influence the public, causing it to adopt them in their own wardrobes. This may occur from an individual’s direct experience or through media sources such as magazines, movies and music videos. In addition to the mass-consumption of these products, some people consider fashion to be a form of art and a way of self-expression.
The start of continual and accelerating change in Western clothing styles can be reasonably dated to the late medieval period. Prior to that, most clothes were handmade for individuals, either by tailors or dressmakers or based on sketches provided by the customer. In this way, customers were able to select the fabric that best suited their tastes and the occasion for which the clothing was being worn.
Today, the fashion industry consists of many different businesses that specialize in creating, manufacturing, and marketing garments, footwear, accessories, and cosmetics. This industry can be very lucrative for those who are able to successfully identify and cater to consumers’ needs. It can also be destructive to the environment, as it uses up a lot of natural resources in order to produce and distribute clothing.