Fashion is a broad term that applies to a range of artistic practices, modes of dress, materials used, modes of interaction, and modes of design. It is also used to refer to a system of ideas and practices connected with fashion. Fashion is generally a set of visual and social practices in which clothes are made to look attractive, elegant, or sexy for a specific period and setting. Fashion is usually defined by the fashion industry when what is fashionable is what is currently popular and in style. However, there are many other factors that affect the rise and fall of fashion.
Many aspects of fashion itself have changed dramatically over time. The definition of what is considered fashionable has been constantly changing since the start of the practice. In modern times the concept of fashion has been connected to marketing practices. Marketing specialists help design what is considered fashionable based on market research and other considerations. As a result, it is not always easy to identify the trends that are popular, which can make it difficult to determine what is in fashion.
The media is also a large factor in determining what is in fashion. The media describes styles and trends in terms of cultural expectations and current events. For instance, in preppy years, magazines often described styles associated with the younger generation such as the grunge look. Today, most people consider the trend of having the hair cut short, shaved head, wearing baggy jeans, and sporting mid length coats to be in fashion.
Public opinion is also important in determining what is in fashion. Many individuals look to the media for information about what is stylish and current. For instance, during the late 1990s it was common to see both men and women wear baggy jeans, long skirts, and baseball hats to blend into a non-specific category that was described as hipster. Today, these styles have become more mainstream and are considered to be in style. However, they still need to be discussed within the context of current fashion trends.
In addition to watching what is in fashion and talking about current styles, people also need to understand what is currently considered to be in fashion. Trends become popular and are a reflection of culture and society. In some instances, changes in fashion tend to last for only a short period of time and then become obsolete once a new trend comes into style. However, trends come and go, and what is currently considered to be in fashion may be in decline, eventually becoming traditional again.
As mentioned previously, some people define what is in fashion based on the media and what they perceive to be fashionable. On the other hand, many people are not easily influenced by what the media says is fashionable. Many people decide what is in fashion through observation of what styles look good on them. If an individual sees a certain style, they are more than likely to pick it. However, if they see another person wearing the same style, they are more likely to choose that particular style because they do not feel comfortable wearing something that they see every day. When it comes to fashion trends, observation is the key, but it can also be influenced by what is being advertised in fashion magazines and on TV.