Fashion is a form of art, the means to express our creativity, individuality and uniqueness. It’s a way of conveying our personal styles, preferences and interests to those around us and the world at large. Whether we’re wearing a floral print dress to celebrate our independence, or a suit for work to show our professionalism and commitment, fashion is more than just a clothing trend—it’s a lifestyle.
Fashion influences every aspect of our lives, from the foods we eat to the music we listen to and the books we read. It is a vital component in our daily rituals and a mirror of the society in which we live.
It’s easy to see the influence of fashion through a popular trend or movement—just look at how quickly the short skirts and boots worn by teenagers in England made their way from the streets to the runways, or how the baggy jeans of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air grew to become a global phenomenon. But the influence of fashion goes even deeper than that, affecting our social, cultural and political identities in ways that are hard to trace—think of how the clothes worn by nuns or judges became iconic symbols of their respective professions.
In addition to influencing our tastes, fashion plays a crucial role in the economy, supporting millions of designers, manufacturers, retailers, and other workers worldwide. Choosing to purchase and wear sustainable fashion is not only good for the environment, but it also helps support local communities and promotes business growth. It’s a win-win situation for everyone involved!
Throughout history, fashion has been used as a form of identification and tradition—judges wear robes, soldiers wear uniforms, brides wear white dresses. It is also a symbol of status, indicating one’s rank within a society and class. Fashion can also serve as a form of protest, for example the miniskirt became a sign of feminism and women’s rights to their bodies, while cassocks or nuns’ robes symbolize renunciation of vanity.
The industry is also full of fads and trends that come and go, so it’s important to remember that your style is unique to you, and there is nothing wrong with sticking to the styles that flatter your figure and make you feel confident. If you find that you are in a rut, try switching up your wardrobe with new pieces—maybe take a style quiz to discover what looks best on you or consult Mood’s Ultimate Alterations Guide to learn how to make adjustments at home. Just remember, a good fit is the key to a great look.