Fashion is an important aesthetic term within a certain cultural context and in particular, in dress, shoes, accessories, lifestyle, cosmetics, hairstyles, and body shapes. In many areas of the world, fashion is also applied to the ideas, emotions that are a part of culture and society. In the United States, fashion continues to have strong regional roots and influences. New York is a cultural center for fashion and design and a number of fashion-related festivals occur each year.
According to the Merriam Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary, a concept is “an attractive or impressive form or figure”. The concept of fashion has grown with changes in the meaning of the word over time. It is now commonly used to refer to attractive and fashionable objects or clothing. The word “fashion” can also be used to describe a trend in decorating or the applying of makeup for the purpose of personal appearance.
Historically, fashion was not as important as it is today. Clothing and adornment were much more functional and practical in nature. They were utilitarian in nature. There was less room for individual expression in design and there were fewer designs. Accessibility to materials and fabrics were minimal.
With the industrial revolution and the coming of mass production, fashion was able to grow. The boundaries between necessities and luxuries became blurred and it was possible to achieve a fashionable look with practically any existing item of clothing. Initially, the trends were driven by necessity: these were the only items in the market that were sold.
As fashion design began to move away from necessity and toward individual expression, designers turned their eye toward what would make people look good. Shoes were designed to improve walking styles and created designs for athletic wear. Jewelry was designed to beautify the bodies of the people wearing them.
With the advent of computers and the internet, the availability of information and communication began to broaden. Designers found it easier to draw from a wide variety of sources for inspiration. Social media websites have also added fuel to the fire. Fashion trends online and elsewhere are a continual source of inspiration for those who like to express themselves creatively. These trends are most likely to continue for several years because they are generally accepted as temporary, one-off fashion statements.
However, sometimes these fashion trends become a bit more permanent. For example, a few years ago high-heels became an almost ubiquitous fashion statement. In less than a year, flat shoes were almost a must have item in every woman’s wardrobe. Although this trend may be short lived, its impact on the market and consumer psyche is undeniable.
A fashion designer will work hard to create trends that keep their clients satisfied and their business running smoothly. The success of a campaign may depend on its ability to appeal to as many people as possible. If they successfully tap into the consumer psyche, they will be successful. Even if a particular trend does not remain through the long term, their campaign will still have achieved its purpose.