essays for clothing style

Essays About Fashion: Top 5 Examples and 9 Prompts

If you are writing essays about fashion, check out our guide of helpful examples and exciting writing prompts to get started.

Fashion is individuals’ way of expressing their personalities. They do this through clothes and accessories that display their tastes and preferences. There are different fashion styles and trends, and anyone can choose anything they want to follow. Additionally, fashion has various benefits, such as boosting self-confidence, lightening moods, and developing creativity. Our fashion choices also help us send messages and present our beliefs. Thus, fashion can also be political .

Below are five essay examples and nine writing prompts to help you create an eye-catching essay about fashion:

5 Top Essay Examples

1. why fashion is important by george k., 2. fashion: an important part of life by ankita yadav, 3. fashion as communication by eunice summers, 4. fashion 2022 by edudwar, 5. the effect of fashion on teenagers in school by anonymous on newyorkessays.com, 1. fashion trends and women, 2. fashion evolution, 3. fashion and starting a business, 4. effects of fashion on society, 5. the best fashion styles for men, 6. fashion trends in different countries , 7. careers in the fashion industry, 8. cultural fashion vs. modern fashion, 9. the best and worst of fashion trends.

“The clothes we wear has become more than merely a way to cover our nakedness; instead it has also become one of the primary ways in which people express themselves.”

George K explains that fashion separates individuals from the rest. A person can introduce himself to others for who and what he is through style choices. Further, the author expounds on how fashion is a very competitive industry that depends on one’s search for identity. The author also points out that every person is unique and thus needs a distinct style to fit them. However, because of constant peer pressure and criticism, an individual’s fashion picks can’t be entirely their own. Ultimately, George K reminds the reader that it’s not just the clothes but how individuals wear and feel in them.

“…if we can do something then it is choosing the right stuff like entertainment, adventure, fashion, etc. All these things can make us happy and are also an important part of life. Fashion always attracts and it is available for all,”

Yadav considers how fashion originated from people’s traditions and cultures and became what it is today through individuals adopting each style and making it their own. In the following sections of the essay, she defines fashion and lists its importance, including how it developed new employment options and how styles speak for the wearer. 

In her conclusion, she encourages everyone to choose their styles and not to mind their age. Fashion helps everyone live life to the fullest.

“Fashion is an industry based on creating a need where there is none and nowadays, due to the current recession, I can understand that fashion may not be people’s biggest concern. But we cannot qualify it as ‘trivial’ since we are surrounded by it; each new generation of customers is highly exposed to commercial influences.”

Summers gives her opinion about the book “Fashion as Communication” by Malcolm Barnard . She identifies points in the work and shares her thoughts on them. The first point being those working in the fashion industry aren’t smart. As a Fashion Marketing student, Summers vehemently disagrees with this statement and recounts her experiences to counter it. She continues to analyze Barnard’s other arguments and agrees with some of them. Summers ends her essay by highlighting that fashion is too essential in modern culture and economic organization for it to be considered “trivial.”

“…the youth cares more about what they wear and how they look which could affect their status in their peer group and meddle with their mental health. Following trends and doing what everyone is doing like a sheep is never a good idea. Fashion is there to reflect your personal style, not copying what other people think is trendy.”

User Edudwar reminds people that fashion is not simply following what’s currently trendy. Fashion is there to give people the chance to show off their individualism and personalities and not present a fake version of themselves to be accepted by society. Additionally, he mentions that youth nowadays are more sensitive to what people think of them, so some will always do everything to follow trends, even if they’re not presentable or appropriate.

“Youths of the present times have indulged themselves in so much fashion that they do not receive sufficient time for other work… The time spent on studies is being used in watching TV programmes, reading fashion articles, or even finding the recent trendy outfits on the Internet.”

The essay discusses the real effects of fashion on today’s youth. The author focuses on kids zeroing in on finding the latest style instead of caring for their studies that directly affect their future. The essay also delves into how youths of yesterday had ambitions and goals in life compared to today’s youths, who prefer to have fun rather than study hard.

See our best essay writing tips to help you write an attractive, attention-grabbing essay.

9 Writing Prompts For Essays About Fashion

To assist you with your essay, we’ve compiled nine exciting writing prompts you can use:

Some women follow fashion trends religiously. They are also more conscious of their physical appearance. Some even go to the extreme and do plastic surgeries to look better in clothes. In your essay, discuss what you think these trends do to women’s perception of their worth and beauty. Add which trends you believe are unhealthy and why there’s more societal pressure for women to be fashionable.

Each era had its styles that directly resulted from that time’s circumstances. Make a timeline of how fashion evolved and the factors that influenced them. At the end of your essay, pick what you think is the best fashion era and explain why.

For this prompt, include the relevant things a future fashion clothing boutique owner should bear in mind. For instance, they should always be on top of the fashion trends and know how to balance demand and costs. Then, find a boutique owner and interview them about their experience to make your essay more fun to read.

Tackle what makes people choose the clothes they wear daily. Some prefer their fashion to display their personalities while others merely follow what they think is popular. To make your essay more interesting, you can do a simple experiment: Go out in public on two occasions: while wearing your fashion picks and donning the latest fashionable clothes. Then, add your findings and how people reacted to you.

Fashion for men is different from women. Although most brands dedicate their line to women, men also deserve to know what makes them look fashionable; this essay lists styles that are excellent for men depending on the setting and event. 

What could be considered fashionable in one country can be seen as disrespectful in another. For this prompt, compile fashion trends many do but are unacceptable in other places. Reasons why may include religion or tradition. Use research data and cite reliable sourcing for a compelling piece.

In this essay, identify the career opportunities available in the fashion industry, including the steps to get there. Next, list the different job roles within fashion, and describe the responsibilities for each. Then, add tips on succeeding in that job and standing out from the rest. For an intriguing essay, conduct interviews with professionals within the industry and include this in your piece.

Our ancestors’ culture greatly influenced today’s fashion. Meanwhile, modern styles are those that the current generation uses. Write an essay about cultural and contemporary fashion’s differences, similarities, advantages, and disadvantages. 

Fashion trends come and go. However, not all popular fashion is pleasing to the eyes. For this essay, compile a list of what is, in your opinion, the best and worst fashion trends. Then, describe why you have formed these opinions and describe the details of each outfit.

Are you looking for your next essay subject? Check out our list of the best writing topics for students .

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100 Fashion Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

Inside This Article

Fashion has always been a fascinating and ever-evolving industry that captures the attention of millions of people worldwide. Whether you're a fashion enthusiast, a student studying fashion design, or simply someone looking for inspiration, writing an essay about fashion can be both fun and educational. To help you get started, here are 100 fashion essay topic ideas and examples that you can explore:

• The evolution of fashion trends over the decades
• The impact of social media on fashion
• The role of sustainability in the fashion industry
• The influence of celebrity fashion on mainstream trends
• The history of high fashion and couture
• The rise of streetwear culture
• The psychology behind fashion choices
• The cultural significance of traditional dress
• The relationship between fashion and identity
• The role of fashion in shaping gender norms
• The impact of fast fashion on the environment
• The history of fashion magazines
• The role of fashion in art and design
• The influence of technology on fashion design
• The future of wearable technology in fashion
• The impact of globalization on fashion production
• The ethics of fur and leather in fashion
• The importance of diversity and inclusivity in fashion
• The role of fashion in political activism
• The history of fashion icons and trendsetters
• The impact of economic recession on fashion trends
• The evolution of fashion photography
• The relationship between fashion and music
• The influence of subcultures on mainstream fashion
• The history of fashion weeks around the world
• The impact of body positivity movements on fashion
• The role of fashion in film and television
• The influence of street style on high fashion
• The history of fashion advertising
• The significance of uniforms in fashion
• The impact of social media influencers on fashion trends
• The role of fashion in consumer culture
• The evolution of swimwear trends
• The relationship between fashion and architecture
• The influence of vintage fashion on modern trends
• The history of fashion in sports
• The impact of climate change on fashion production
• The role of fashion in challenging beauty standards
• The significance of fashion collaborations between designers
• The evolution of fashion accessories
• The influence of art movements on fashion design
• The history of fashion in sub-Saharan Africa
• The impact of colonialism on fashion in Asia
• The role of fashion in self-expression
• The significance of fashion in religious rituals
• The influence of nature on fashion trends
• The history of denim and jeans in fashion
• The impact of body modification on fashion
• The role of fashion in creating social change
• The evolution of footwear trends
• The influence of military uniforms on fashion
• The history of fashion in the LGBTQ+ community
• The impact of the fashion industry on body image
• The role of fashion in mental health awareness
• The significance of fashion in protest movements
• The influence of technology on sustainable fashion
• The history of fashion in Indigenous communities
• The impact of social media filters on beauty standards
• The role of fashion in cultural appropriation
• The evolution of lingerie trends
• The influence of dance on fashion design
• The history of fashion in the Middle East
• The impact of fashion on self-esteem
• The role of fashion in creating social hierarchies
• The significance of fashion in rites of passage
• The influence of literature on fashion trends
• The history of fashion in the punk subculture
• The impact of fashion on mental health
• The role of fashion in gender fluidity
• The evolution of handbag trends
• The influence of street art on fashion design
• The history of fashion in the digital age
• The impact of fashion on body dysmorphia
• The role of fashion in creating cultural stereotypes
• The significance of fashion in the disability community
• The influence of drag culture on fashion
• The history of fashion in the hip-hop community
• The impact of fashion on self-identity
• The role of fashion in social mobility
• The evolution of jewelry trends
• The influence of the Renaissance on fashion design
• The role of fashion in gender

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✍️Essay on Fashion: Samples in 100, 150, 200 Words

• Updated on  
• Oct 26, 2023

Fashion is a non-verbal form of expression that describes a person’s character and sense of style. Before, it was just the realm of the famous, and aristocracy. However, the average person, particularly young people, can now afford to wear fashionable clothing. Additionally, fashion started out as a trend but through time came to be accepted as a certain way of living, whether it be in terms of behaviour, apparel, or lifestyle. Speaking of which, in this blog, we will talk about how fashion has evolved over time in our sample essays. Let’s dive in. 

Table of Contents

• 1 History of Fashion
• 2 Essay on Fashion in 100 Words
• 3 Essay on Fashion in 150 words
• 4 Essay on Fashion in 200 Words

History of Fashion

Not just fashion designers but other people are curious to know the history of fashion. According to historians, Charles Frederick Worth was the first fashion designer. When clothing was still created by unidentified seamstresses, he founded the House of Worth, a fashion design studio, in Paris. Contemporary fashion is characterized by a blend of diverse influences, styles, and trends from various cultures and time periods. Fashion has become more accessible and inclusive, with designers experimenting with sustainability, technology, and innovative materials to create unique and socially conscious clothing

Also Read: Essay on Nature: In 100 Words, 200 Words, 300 Words

Essay on Fashion in 100 Words

Fashion encompasses clothing, accessories, and even behaviours, reflecting culture and individuality. Fashion evolves continuously, driven by designers, influencers, and changing norms. It has the power to convey identity, status, and creativity. Whether classic or avant-garde, fashion allows individuals to make statements and connect with others through a shared aesthetic.

It mirrors the zeitgeist, responding to economic, environmental, and social shifts. In a world of fast fashion and sustainability concerns, redefining our approach to style becomes essential. Fashion’s allure lies in its ability to blend art, identity, and innovation, shaping our visual language.

Essay on Fashion in 150 words

Fashion is a form of self-expression that plays a significant role in our lives. It includes clothing, accessories, and personal style, reflecting one’s personality and cultural influences. Fashion trends constantly evolve, influenced by designers, celebrities, and societal shifts.

The 1920s saw the rise of flapper dresses and a rebellious spirit, while the 1960s embraced mini skirts and the counterculture movement. In recent years, sustainability and ethical fashion have gained prominence, emphasizing the need for eco-friendly choices and responsible consumption.

Fashion is more than just aesthetics; it is an industry that impacts economies, employing millions worldwide. It serves as a medium for creative expression, and social movements often utilize fashion to convey powerful messages.

In conclusion, fashion is a versatile cultural force that goes beyond mere clothing. It reflects our society’s values and artistic expression.

Also Read: Essay on My Favourite Book: Samples in 100, 200, 300 Words

Essay on Fashion in 200 Words

Fashion is an evolving form of self-expression that has penetrated our daily lives, bringing more clothing choices to become a reflection of culture, identity, and individuality. 

Fashion, throughout history, has mirrored societal norms and values. It has been a canvas for rebellion or conformity. Whether it’s the flapper dresses of the 1920s, the bell-bottoms of the 1970s, or the minimalist styles of the 21st century, fashion has been a powerful communicator.

Moreover, the fashion industry is an economic powerhouse, shaping global trends and contributing significantly to various economies. It influences not only what we wear but also the jobs we create and the environmental impact we have.

Fashion’s role in personal identity is undeniable. People use clothing to express their personalities, tastes, and beliefs. It empowers individuals to feel confident and unique.

However, the fast fashion industry has been criticized for its environmental footprint and labor practices. However, over time calls for sustainable, ethical fashion have gained momentum, emphasizing the need for responsible consumption.

In conclusion, fashion is more than just attire; it’s a reflection of our culture, an economic force, a personal identifier, and a global conversation. As we navigate the complex world of fashion, it’s essential to strike a balance between personal expression, industry responsibility, and environmental sustainability.

Related Articles

The development of clothing, footwear, accessories, cosmetics, and jewellery with varied cultural aesthetics and their mixing and matching to create outfits that represent distinct styles of dressing are referred to as fashion. 

Fashion is a form of expression that is not restricted to clothing, this term often refers to designer clothing and accessories.

Dressing up shows how we look at someone. They help create an idea of what we think of someone’s personality. Wearing makes someone comfortable and people will respect your individuality. Therefore, this is an important part of fashion. 

For more information on such interesting topics, visit our essay-writing page and follow Leverage Edu ! 

Malvika Chawla

Malvika is a content writer cum news freak who comes with a strong background in Journalism and has worked with renowned news websites such as News 9 and The Financial Express to name a few. When not writing, she can be found bringing life to the canvasses by painting on them.

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Essay on Modern Fashion

Students are often asked to write an essay on Modern Fashion in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Modern Fashion

Introduction.

Modern fashion is a dynamic world that reflects the spirit of the times. It’s not just about clothing, but also about expressing one’s personality and values.

Fashion has evolved significantly over time. It has moved from being a privilege of the elite to being accessible to everyone, thanks to technological advancements.

Fashion is influenced by various factors like culture, media, celebrities, and even politics. It’s a way for people to communicate their identity and beliefs.

In conclusion, modern fashion is more than just clothes. It’s a form of self-expression and a mirror of society’s changes and trends.

250 Words Essay on Modern Fashion

Introduction to modern fashion, fashion as a form of self-expression.

In the modern era, fashion has become an avenue for personal storytelling. It’s no longer merely about following trends set by high-end designers. Instead, individuals curate their style, blending vintage and contemporary pieces, high-end and affordable items, to create a unique aesthetic that reflects their personality and values.

The Influence of Social Media

The advent of social media has greatly democratized fashion. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok allow users to showcase their style, influencing trends on a global scale. As a result, the power to dictate fashion has shifted from designers and models to everyday individuals and influencers.

Sustainability in Modern Fashion

In response to growing concerns about environmental and ethical issues, sustainable fashion is gaining prominence. This movement encourages the use of eco-friendly materials, ethical production processes, and a shift towards slow fashion – buying fewer, higher quality items that last longer.

Modern fashion is a complex blend of personal expression, social media influence, and growing sustainability consciousness. As we move forward, the industry will continue to evolve, reflecting the changing times and the diverse identities of those who engage with it. With its dynamic nature, fashion remains an exciting and influential aspect of modern culture.

500 Words Essay on Modern Fashion

Fashion is an ever-evolving phenomenon, a reflection of societal changes and individual expression. Modern fashion is a complex blend of aesthetics, functionality, and cultural influences, marking a departure from traditional norms and embracing diversity on a global scale.

The Evolution of Modern Fashion

Global influences and cultural fusion.

Modern fashion is a melting pot of global influences. Designers are increasingly drawing inspiration from different cultures, leading to a fusion of styles. This cultural exchange is not just about aesthetics, but also about fostering understanding and respect for diverse cultures. However, it’s crucial to navigate this space with sensitivity to avoid cultural appropriation.

Technology and Fashion

Technology has revolutionized modern fashion in numerous ways. From digital sketches and 3D printing to smart fabrics and wearable tech, the marriage of fashion and technology is reshaping the industry. Online shopping and social media have also transformed the way we discover and purchase fashion, making it a more interactive and personalized experience.

Representation and Inclusivity

Modern fashion is also marked by a push for greater representation and inclusivity. Body positivity and diversity are now front and center, challenging traditional beauty standards. Fashion brands are recognizing the need for designs that cater to all body types, ages, and races, signaling a shift towards a more inclusive industry.

Conclusion: The Future of Modern Fashion

As we move forward, the future of modern fashion lies in its ability to adapt and innovate. With challenges like climate change and social inequality, the industry needs to evolve sustainably and inclusively. Modern fashion is not just about what we wear, but also about the values we embody. As consumers, we have the power to shape these values and drive change, making fashion a powerful tool for social and environmental progress.

Apart from these, you can look at all the essays by clicking here .

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Essay on Fashion for Students and Children

500+ words essay on fashion.

Fashion refers to anything that becomes a rage among the masses. Fashion is a popular aesthetic expression. Most Noteworthy, it is something that is in vogue. Fashion appears in clothing, footwear, accessories, makeup, hairstyles, lifestyle, and body proportions. Furthermore, Fashion is an industry-supported expression. In the contemporary world, people take fashion very seriously. Fashion is something that has permeated every aspect of human culture.

History of Fashion

The origin of Fashion is from the year 1826. Probably everyone believes Charles Frederick to be the first fashion designer of the world. He also established the first Fashion house in Paris. Consequently, he began the tradition of Fashion houses. Furthermore, he gave advice to customers on what clothing would suit them. He was prominent form 1826 to 1895.

During this period, many design houses hired artists. Furthermore, the job of these artists was to develop innovative designs for garments. The clients would examine many different patterns. Then they would pick the one they like. Consequently, a tradition began of presenting patterns to customers and then stitching them.

At the beginning of the 20th century, new developments in Fashion took place. These developments certainly began in Paris first. Then they spread in other parts of the world. Consequently, new designs first came into existence in France. From Paris, they went to other parts of the world. Hence, Paris became the Fashion capital of the world. Also, Fashion in this era was ‘haute couture’. This Fashion design was exclusively for individuals.

In the mid-20th century, a change took place. Now Fashion garments underwent mass production. There was a significant increase in the rate of production of Fashion garments. As a result, more and more people became involved with Fashion garments. By the end of the 20th century, a sense of Fashion awareness was very strong. Now people began to choose clothes based on their own style preference. Hence, people began to create their own trends instead of relying on existing trends.

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Fashion Trend

Political influences certainly play a major role in influencing Fashion. Many politicians become fashion symbols. Notable examples are First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy and Princess Diana. Also, political revolutions make a huge impact on the Fashion trend. For example, in 1960’s America, liberal clothing styles became popular among the younger generation. This was due to the Liberal revolution.

Another significant factor which influences Fashion trend is technology. There certainly has been a rapid growth of technology in the Fashion industry. For example, wearable technology has become a popular Fashion trend. Furthermore, 3D printing technology and the internet have also made an impact on Fashion.

Social influences are probably the strongest influences on the Fashion trend. Many music stars strongly influence Fashion choice. For example, wearing hoodies became famous due to rap musicians. Furthermore, movie and television actors create a big impact on Fashion. Many youngsters love to emulate the Fashion sense of their favourite celebrity.

To sum it up, Fashion certainly has become a part and parcel of human life. It certainly is a force that is here to stay. Most noteworthy, Fashion has immersed every place on Earth.

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Fashion Articles: How To Write About Fashion, Tips For Beginners

What makes a great fashion article, tips for beginner writers, examples of well-written fashion articles, author bio:, follow fashion week online® on instagram for exclusive content, you may also enjoy ..., black pr is thrilled to introduce grace weller aw24 collection, krisalexander ss25 show copenhagen fashion week, graduates from the royal danish academy propose sustainable fashion solutions, follow @fashionweekonline on instagram for exclusive content., ━ fashion-forward, ━ follow us.

Essay on Fashion

Essay generator.

Fashion, a term that resonates with vibrancy, creativity, and change, is an integral part of human culture and society. It is not merely about clothing or accessories; it is a form of self-expression, a reflection of social and economic status, and a mirror to the cultural norms and values of a time. This essay delves into the multifaceted world of fashion, exploring its significance, evolution, impact on society, and the role it plays in individual identity and sustainability.

Fashion is a dynamic and ever-evolving industry that encompasses the design, manufacturing, distribution, marketing, and retailing of clothing, footwear, accessories, and even lifestyle products. It is a form of art and communication, allowing individuals to express their personalities, preferences, and cultural backgrounds without uttering a single word.

Historical Evolution of Fashion

The history of fashion is as old as humanity itself. From the simplistic animal skins and leaves of the prehistoric times to the elaborate and ornate garments of the Renaissance, fashion has evolved significantly. Each era’s fashion trends reflect the socio-political and economic conditions of the time. For instance, the 1920s flapper dresses symbolized women’s liberation movements, while the 1960s and 1970s hippie fashion voiced the youth’s rebellion against societal norms and the demand for peace.

The Significance of Fashion

Fashion plays a pivotal role in shaping identities and cultures. It serves as a means of self-expression and empowerment, allowing individuals to showcase their uniqueness and creativity. Moreover, fashion acts as a social barometer, reflecting societal changes and trends. It also significantly impacts the economy, with the global fashion industry being one of the most lucrative and employment-generating sectors.

Fashion and Society

Fashion is deeply intertwined with society, influencing and being influenced by cultural, economic, and social dynamics.

Cultural Identity and Fashion

Fashion is a powerful tool for expressing cultural identity. Traditional attires, such as the Indian saree, Japanese kimono, or Scottish kilt, are not just clothing items but symbols of cultural heritage and pride. They convey stories, traditions, and values, preserving the rich history and diversity of cultures around the world.

Fashion and Social Change

Fashion has been at the forefront of social change, challenging norms and advocating for equality. The androgynous fashion of the 20th century, for instance, blurred gender lines, promoting gender equality and freedom of expression. Similarly, the body positivity movement in recent years has influenced fashion brands to embrace diversity in body shapes and sizes, fostering inclusivity and self-acceptance.

The Fashion Industry: A Double-Edged Sword

While fashion enriches cultural expressions and empowers individuals, it also faces criticism, particularly regarding sustainability and ethical practices.

The Environmental Impact of Fashion

The fashion industry is one of the major contributors to environmental degradation. Fast fashion, characterized by cheap, rapidly produced, and disposable clothing, exacerbates waste, water pollution, and carbon emissions. The urge for constant consumption driven by ever-changing trends has led to overproduction, contributing significantly to the global waste crisis.

Ethical Considerations in Fashion

The ethical concerns surrounding the fashion industry include labor exploitation, unsafe working conditions, and unfair wages, especially in developing countries. The quest for cheaper production costs often results in human rights violations, raising questions about the morality of consumer choices and corporate responsibilities.

Fashion and Individual Identity

Fashion is a medium through which individuals communicate their personalities, beliefs, and social status. It is a form of non-verbal communication that provides insights into an individual’s character, mood, and even aspirations.

Personal Expression Through Fashion

Choosing what to wear is a personal decision influenced by factors such as mood, occasion, and individual taste. Fashion offers a canvas for creativity and self-expression, enabling individuals to differentiate themselves and make statements about who they are or wish to be perceived as.

Fashion and Body Image

Fashion has a profound impact on body image and self-esteem. The industry’s portrayal of beauty standards can influence perceptions of self-worth, leading to both positive and negative outcomes. While fashion can empower individuals to feel confident and proud of their appearance, it can also perpetuate unrealistic beauty ideals, causing anxiety and dissatisfaction.

The Future of Fashion: Towards Sustainability and Inclusivity

The future of fashion lies in embracing sustainability and inclusivity. Consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental and ethical implications of their fashion choices, prompting a shift towards slow fashion, ethical production, and sustainable materials.

Embracing Sustainable Fashion

Sustainable fashion focuses on reducing environmental impact through the use of eco-friendly materials, ethical manufacturing processes, and promoting longevity over disposability. It encourages recycling, upcycling, and a more mindful consumption pattern, aiming to create a balance between fashion and the environment.

Promoting Inclusivity in Fashion

Inclusivity in fashion means designing and marketing clothing that caters to a diverse range of body types, ages, ethnicities, and disabilities. It challenges traditional beauty standards, advocating for a fashion industry that celebrates diversity and encourages individuals to embrace their unique identities.

In conclusion, Fashion is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that transcends clothing and accessories. It is a form of art, a means of communication, and a reflection of societal values and changes. While the fashion industry faces challenges related to sustainability and ethics, there is a growing movement towards more responsible and inclusive practices. By embracing these values, fashion can continue to be a source of creativity, empowerment, and cultural expression, enriching the tapestry of human experience.

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Tips For Students Writing Essays About Fashion

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Last update on: 7:52 pm November 16, 2023 by fashionabc

Fashion is an intricate, multifaceted domain that forms a thought-provoking area of analysis. There exists rich potential in critically evaluating the evolution of fashion design and trends from diverse academic lenses. Students aiming to write compelling essays on fashion must go beyond surface-level observations to provide original arguments backed by research. Writing compelling essays about fashion necessitates a keen understanding of trends, styles, and cultural influences, and for students seeking to enhance their writing, professional essay help by UKwritings offers expert guidance and insights to ensure their essays showcase a nuanced understanding of the dynamic world of fashion. This guide outlines practical strategies for identifying unique essay topics, locating quality sources, structuring coherent arguments, and developing sophisticated writing skills when covering fashion. Adopting these tips allows students to produce academic essays that engage readers through blending substance, style and strategic analysis.

Selecting Strong Fashion Essay Topics

Brainstorming essay topics represents an essential first step. Rather than wide topics like “1950s Fashion”, identify a specific, debatable angle to shape the essay’s trajectory. For instance, “The Paradox Between 1950s Fashion Elegance and Social Oppression of Women” introduces intrigue and complexity. Consider niche fashion topics through historical, sociological, political, celebrity culture, photographic or economic lenses. Analyze causation and implications of a fashion concept’s evolution or reception. Focused, well-defined topics give essays direction and prevent drifting into generalizations.

During initial brainstorms, list any intriguing fashion areas without judgement before selecting a definitive topic. Keep an open mind to underrepresented topics involving demographics, cultures or time periods with analytical potential. Browse academic fashion journals for inspiration from issues scholars actively discuss. Free-writing in a stream of consciousness style can unveil unlikely connections between fashion and other domains like architecture, fine art or geography. These intersections introduce fascinating analytical dimensions.

Narrow down broad topics by asking probing questions to target an essay’s specific scope. For example, an overview of 1920s fashion could focus on symbolic interpretations of Coco Chanel’s Little Black Dress within women’s emancipation movements. Outlining potential supporting points maps whether adequate credible evidence exists before committing to a particular topic. Choose topics demonstrating gaps requiring further investigation to avoid dead-ends due to sparse resources.

Conducting Rigorous Fashion Research

Conducting research introduces the framework supporting an essay’s examination of a fashion topic. Search for both primary and secondary sources to balance first-hand insights with expert analyses. Primary sources like interviews with designers, curators or consumers provide eyewitness perspectives from individuals directly involved in fashion. Secondary sources such as scholarly books/articles offer historian or critic interpretations through frameworks like feminism or semiotics.

Library database searches using keywords reveal fashion academic journals containing peer-reviewed articles often not available through basic web searches. Literature reviews consulting reference lists in existing materials also unveil additional relevant sources. Historically-oriented fashion essays benefit from browsing digitized archives of runway show footage, ad campaigns, documentaries or magazine editorials. For modern fashion topics, hashtag searches on social media unearth diverse public opinions.

Gather general background information before honing focus upon pertinent details. Compile all bibliographic details and page numbers of useful evidence during research sessions for smooth citations integration later. If analyzing controversial fashion topics involving sensitive issues of gender, race or sexuality, ensure examining diverse viewpoints to avoid narrow interpretations. Record research reflections and analytical ideas in a dedicated notebook to stimulate further critical thinking.

Logically Structuring the Essay

After completing sufficient in-depth research, logically structure the fashion essay using standard academic composition. First, the introduction paragraph should open with an intriguing hook luring readers before clearly stating the essay’s central thesis or argument. A concise preview of supporting points outlines the essay’s direction without revealing all details.

The next body paragraphs present carefully selected evidence to substantiate the main thesis. Each paragraph consists of a topic sentence introducing an aspect the essay will prove, supported by cited examples, facts, quotes and explanatory analysis. Paragraph transitions smoothly build upon previous points to collectively form a cohesive, convincing case. Navigating fashion essays requires students to stay attuned to trends and cultural nuances, and for those aspiring to enrich their discussions, engaging discussion board post writing services can provide valuable support, fostering thoughtful dialogues and insightful perspectives within fashion academia.

Finally, the conclusion summarizes key ideas explored in the body paragraphs and argues their wider significance beyond the essay’s strictly defined scope. End by posing unanswered questions from the fashion analysis to inspire readers to discover further insights. Overall, each section flows naturally while spotlighting the most compelling evidence available to validate the essay’s fashion argument.

Employing Impactful Writing Techniques

Beyond planning good structure, executing sophisticated writing strengthens fashion essays considerably through elements like precise word choices, smooth integration of source materials and variation within sentence styles.

Firstly, select descriptive yet concise terminology resonating with fashion contexts discussed. For example, “flapper silhouette” instantly communicates associations with the 1920s party-centric youth culture and liberated tubular dresses contrasting with previous Victorian-era frilly excess. Avoid overusing vague intensifiers like “very” or “really” which dilute statements lacking specificity.

Next, blend paraphrased and directly quoted evidence from sources to reinforce claims made around the essay’s fashion analysis rather than inserting disjointed examples merely for padding word counts. Introduce each selected reference, embed quoted text fluidly through signal phrases like “Critic Simon Reynolds (2021) argues….” and explain its relevance immediately afterwards to circle back to the paragraph’s central point.

Finally, consciously alternate longer, more complex sentences with shorter punchy ones throughout the essay for engaging rhythm and cadence while reading. For example, a profound viewpoint could be emphasised through a concise single sentence paragraph. Repeating similar grammatical structures becomes monotonous so proactively vary expressions. Now equipped with strong topics, research, structure and style strategies, fashion essay writing proves an enriching opportunity to showcase critical thinking.

Recommended Fashion Essay Ideas

Four intersecting realms surrounding fashion theory and history contain abundant inspiration for compelling essay topics. Keep these areas in mind when first selecting a topic and conducting deeper research into overlooked issues warranting discussion.

Semiotics of Fashion

Semiotics refers to the meanings behind signs and symbols embedded within visual culture like clothing, posture and makeup choices reflecting certain stereotypical assumptions or connotations. Essays could decode recurring motifs across fashion advertising over time representing aspirational qualities, gender norms or values prioritized in a given era. Alternatively, case studies interpreting nuances of a particular celebrity’s or subculture’s construction of fashion signifiers introduce semiotic theory for understanding unspoken messaging through style.

Fashion and Performativity

Performativity involves examining how fashion facilitates modes of public-facing identity display, interaction rituals and presentations of the self. Essays considering topics through a performativity lens evaluate how groups or individuals strategically appropriate certain stylistic elements to emit desired impressions affecting social outcomes in contexts like workplace promotions or peer acceptance. Underrepresented issues like masks functioning as transformative fashion statements or the role of digital filters in catfishing deceptions represent fascinating performativity-driven discussions.

Fashion and Intersectionality

The interdisciplinary concept of intersectionality recognizes how gender, racial, sexual, class and ability identity markers intersect to produce overlapping systems shaping every human’s experiences. Fashion essay topics deploying intersectionality move beyond single-axis analyses examining issues solely through isolated categories to capture multidimensional realities. For example, assess how social media created complex youth peer status hierarchies based on calculative impressions management across intersecting dimensions like facial attractiveness, follower ratios, stylistic novelty and number of shares/likes.

Sustainability Issues in Fashion

Environmental sustainability proves an increasing concern across the fashion industry from textile material sourcing to chemical usage in production processes and resulting waste when swiftly discarded. However, tensions persist between profits prioritization and genuinely transforming towards ecological sensitivity. Essay topics can critically address aspects like greenwashing marketing strategies exaggerating sustainability measures for bolstering brand goodwill, while avoiding implementing meaningful changes that compromise commercial success. Case studies on particular companies’ contradictory stances reveal underlying motives and activist call-outs.

Selecting intriguing fashion essay topics constitutes a crucial first step when presenting strong academic arguments within this multifaceted domain. Seek specificity over broad overviews when identifying promising issues for analysis. Conduct both primary and secondary research to gather well-rounded evidence illuminating the topic from diverse informative perspectives. 

Carefully structure essays using an introduction, body paragraph sections substantiating the central thesis, and conclusion reiterating broader significance of claims. Finally, frame arguments through polished writing boasting elements like topic-relevant terminology, seamless integration of quoted material, and consciously-varied sentence styles to engage readers. Mastering these steps leads to compelling fashion-focused essays blending substance, research and elegant style.

fashionabc is a fashion technology platform, comprising a digital directory and various other digital tools and supply chain solutions for the fashion industry ecosystem, that focus on ethical fashion and sustainability. We are building inclusive digital transformation tools for fashion professionals who are willing to take steps towards a more sustainable ethical fashion industry, by adopting AI and DLT blockchain technology.

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A blog about writing.

Are Your Characters Stylin'? Descriptive Fashion Phrases and Terms

photo credit: Zawezome via photopin cc

Describing clothes on characters isn’t nearly as fun writing an action scene. But let’s face it, clothes and their condition say as much about our characters as they do on real people.

Thankfully there are ways to sneak clothing descriptions into a scene without sounding like a fashion magazine.

When ever possible, let clothing and the character’s appearance leak into the scene as a bystander.

Clothing descriptions as a bystander to body language is used a lot.

  Example: She sat, smiled and nodded her head. Beneath the table, her damp fists crushed the delicate silk of her evening gown while her kid boots tapped a rapid rhythm. This doesn’t sound like a description of clothing at all and yet the sentence shows the reader what the woman is wearing.

  Clothing descriptions as a bystander in an action scene is not the norm. Usually they just slow down the action and are better avoided. UNLESS, the type of clothing is important to the action.

Example: Set up: In my book Love and Fortune the heroine is a distraction while a group of Yankees soldiers surround a band of weary Rebels. Her attire is important to this scene.

  The dancer was one with the music … She raised softly curved arms, and a myriad of gold bangles jangled to the rhythm of the mounting beat. Only her green feline eyes were visible above the diaphanous red silk draped loosely about her head and across the lower half of her face. A red peasant blouse slipped down one shoulder, sparking the imaginations of her hushed, gray-uniformed audience. Inky tresses swirled about her undulating hips, hips that invited a man’s caress. … She pivoted abruptly and dashed into the oblivion of the night. Gradey started to rise, but the clicking of rifles being cocked and aimed froze him in place.

  Then of course, there’s times when a character arrives on stage, requiring a quick description of their appearance and little more. For those times, the word lists below come in handy. Knowing the exact name of a fashion also saves words and gives the reader an instant picture: Hobble-skirt, mini skirt, peasant blouse, cravat, kid gloves, pea coat, dickey etc. [That list of coats, shirts, skirts, neckwear, hats, shoes etc with their definitions will have to wait for another blog.]

Note: Don’t waste time and words describing an unimportant character who makes only one appearance in the book. Lengthy descriptions imply the character is important to the story.

Below is a list of my fashion terms for women and men. Keep in mind that descriptions of men’s attire should lend themselves to masculinity and durability with a bit of suave thrown into the mix.

By themselves these terms sound like they were taken right out of a fashion magazine. Their beauty is more evident when they're used to trim a wordy description to a concise expression.

Following the men’s list are words and phrases for the “Less Than Presentable,” “Getting Dressed” and “General Synonyms for Clothing.”

General Fashion Terms for Women

…added drama Accented with Accentuated waist Accessorized Aesthetic quality Bold detail Characterized by Charming Clean lines Contrasted Cut generously Daring creation Dazzling sparkles Deep pleats Delicate and lacy Displayed her assets Dominate stripe Eccentric designs Essential elements Exotic Figure fattering Fitted, tailored to fit Flair for the spectacular Flaring Floaty and sheer Flowing Form fitting Frame the face French cut panties Fresh, spring colors Fullness Graceful silhouette Great daring and originality Harmony Harsh tones Height of propriety Highlighted by Hot little off-the-shoulder number Indulge herself with Latest crazeLavished with ruffles/lace etc. Lively print Luxurious silk Made a statement Masterfully rendered in Mode of dress Modified the hemline Motif of *** swirled around the hem Noble simplicity Ornate Ostentatious extravagance Outlined – figure, hem, sleeves Piping detailed the Plunging neckline Portray the rich variety in design Prestige of the label Provocative Prudish length Rare Richly decorated Romantic Rounded collar Sashed at the waist Savvy cut Shabby chic Shapeless Shapely Profile Silky scarves Simplicity Slim lines Soft, supple Spectacular style Stunning Stylistic melange Taste Thin as a Vail of tears Trailing Trends Trimmed Velvety soft Vogue

photo credit: johanoomen via photopin cc

General Fashion Terms for Men

All about comfort Black, a logical choice for a man of noir Convenient Conventional Cushioned inner soles Dapper old gentleman Decadent open collar Durable Expensive leather had some miles on it Geared to a man’s needs Generously cut Hand-crafted Handsomely tailored Heavy duty Indispensable Intricately tooled Lightweight Long range wear Moves from boardroom to elegance ease Nattily unkempt Relaxed fit Sharp and dynamic Sharp front pleats Sporty elegance Step out on the town shoes SturdyTie upstaged his silk shirt Traditional Well groomed

Less Than Presentable

All flash and no dash Beauty blight Bedraggled Blowzy over-done Boots with newspaper stuffed inside to cover the holes in the soles Clothes painted on her Donned grubbies for yard work Dress gone limp in the heat Dressed like an unmade bed Dressed like he’s fleeing a fire/the devil Ensemble clashes Flamboyant colors clashed Foul-smelling socks Gaudy/gauche Gowns cut to see level High water pants, flood pants House dress that looked like a slipcover Huge hat with a hectic array of If she’s class, it doesn’t show on her back It’s called the tacky cut Jeans deliberately torn and frayed Miserably shod feet Misshapen straw hat perched at a jaunty angle Motley hat tilted over one eye Nondescript Off-beat/kinky/Bohemian/hippie/beatnick Old mossback cares nothing for fashion Patched hand-me-downs Poured into her jeans Resembles Rummage Sal Scandalous Shabby as a Shows more of her self than she does style Tattered cast-offs Teen uniform: jeans, scruffy T-shirt, dirty sneakers and no socks Threadbare/napless/frayed/holey/dilapidated/misshapen Vermin ridden/lice fleas/bedbugs Whites that looked gray Wretched condition

Getting Dressed

Array Attire Bundle up Change into Clad Cloaked Costumed herself Doll up Don Dress fit to kiss Dress to the nines Dude up Equip Garb Get beautiful Get glitzed Getting ready Glammed Gown up Groom Gussy up Invest Make ready Outfitted himself Primp Rig up Shroud Slicked up Slip on or into Snaz up Spiff up Spruce up Suit up Swaddle Swath Wrapped in

General Synonyms for Clothing

Array Attire Best bib and tucker Bling Bling – jewelry or sparkle added to clothing Costume Doodads Drapery Duds Ensemble Evening dress, wear Fashion Finery Flashery Floordrobe – clothes left on the floor Frippery Frocks Garb Garments Garmenture Gear Getup Gladrags Grubbies Guadery Guise Habiliment Hand-me-downs Number – as in wearing a sexy number Outfit Rags Raiment Regalia Rigging Suit of clothes Suit up Sunday-go-to-meetin’ Swag – accessories sometimes jewelry or gifts Threads Togs Trapping Trousseau Uniforms Wardrobe Weeds Wraps

About Sharla

When she’s not writing and researching ways to bedevil her book characters, Sharla enjoys collecting authentically costumed dolls from all over the world, traveling (to seek more dolls!), and reading tons of books.

You can find Sharla here at Writers In The Storm, on Twitter at @SharlaWrites or on Facebook .

37 comments on “Are Your Characters Stylin'? Descriptive Fashion Phrases and Terms”

Love these, Sharla. I like how clothing can show mood, as well as personal style. A laced-up businesswoman in a pair of jeans and t-shirt really shows where her head is - without telling.

As always, thanks for sharing your wonderful lists!

I love playing with clothing in a scene. Another great list, Sharla, thank you!!

These are great! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Glad you enjoyed it.

These are great. I have enough trouble just remembering what my characters are wearing over the course of the day.

Ha, Terry. Sometimes I've gotten to store and realized I still have my garden shoes on! Characters are easier. 🙂

Although I buy the majority of my clothing at thrift shops, I can still dress with the best of them! Thanks for doing my research for me, and hopefully, my next set of characters won't be dressed like an unmade bed!

Hey, I "am" an unmade bed. 🙂

Thank you! This article couldn't have come at a better time. I'm dressing my characters now. 🙂

Great Carol. I hope it helps. I sure is easier than getting them undressed for a love scene.

Great article! Thank you.

Terrific article! Love the lists.

Your welcome Tara

Thank you for stopping by today Diana.

Thank you so much for this list. The timing couldn't have been better, as I am writing my hero and heroine's first-meeting scene. Love it!

Hope it helps Donna.

Wonderful article, thank you-I also focused on 'unmade bed', love it.

I'm just about to start a story/novel set in the 40s and this post is so useful. Thank you!

Oh, I love the 40s. Women were really grabbing more freedoms during this time period and that includes fashion. Just looking at how much swim suits changed during that error proves the point. 🙂

Great article and list. Thank you so much Sharla.

Thanks so much for stopping by WITS!

I will never look at clothing the same! Perhaps, I'll actually pay attention now to what my hero and heroine are wearing. Because honestly, I usually don't, unless they're on the way to wearing nothing. Shame on me. 🙂

Well, nothing has it's place too. 🙂

For sure, but I'm missing an opportunity. The truth is I never think about my own clothing either and it's bleeding over, but I'm missing an opportunity here.

Fantastic! Do you have a master "tag" of all the list posts you've done here, Sharla? I love every one of them, but I'm afraid I'm missing some. 🙂

I should put these down in my blog of lists: I hope the links work here: Put Your Flabby Writing on a Diet Place Descriptions: It’s About Atmosphere Not a Travel log ( Trees, forests, wetlands) Place Descriptions – Part 2: Waterways A Cauldron of Spooky Words for Your Halloween Sexy Phrases For In And Out Of The Bedroom What is an “Echo?” Tips To Axe These Repeat Offenders Character Eye Descriptions: The Window to Your Story Writing In Living Color And Two New Lists

Awesome! Thank you! 🙂

Jami, I think if you go to the research box and type in "lists" you will come up with the blogs. In the meantime I'll look them up later today and see if I can come up with a list. Jenny is our Techi person and she might be able to help more with this too. BTW, I love "your" blogs!

I'm so fashion challenged, it's not even funny. That's one of the reasons I write sports romance. The men wear white uniforms at home and gray on the road. The only designers I need to know are Nike and Under Armor. And maybe Victoria's Secret.

Well it isn't easy keeping up with the latest fashion terms and fads. Perhaps I should a part 2 to this blog listing all kinds of dress, hats, gloves etc. 🙂

"Tag" is right Jami! Sharla, these lists are the gold standard for writing descriptive fashion. This is awesome! I love this kind of stuff and will print this out for all those times when I suffer from brain fog. Great prompters. 🙂

Thanks Karen! That's what I use these for - brain freeze, when the right word won't come.

What a handy collection -- I'm amazed at what it must have taken to put all those terms together!

When I first started writing I started the lists Laurie and over time they grew.Who knew, years later, I'd put them to even better use by sharing them with fellow writers. 🙂

Great list of terms, Sharla! It's so easy to get 'stuck' for just the right description. I love the word 'floordrobe', lol. Never heard that one before! Màiri Norris

Thanks. I'm glad you enjoyed the list.

This is so great, thank you!

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How to Describe Clothing in Writing Without Boring Everybody

If you’re trying to learn how to describe clothing in writing, you’re probably like me:

You’ve only pretended to know what organza is. When you’re shopping for yourself, you know what you like but you don’t know how to describe it. And ninety-nine percent of the clothing descriptions in your first draft are just “jeans.” I get it. Clothing description is something I have to actively choose to create, too. It’s not an aspect of character design that bubbles up naturally from the depths of my creative soul. And as a reader, nothing bores me like an entire paragraph of detailed clothing description.

But I’ve also noticed that artful clothing description does make a character, a setting, and even a moment more engaging. It’s all in the craft.It’s good that you’re here to learn how to describe clothing in writing, because it’s a powerful tool. What your character wears reveals where they come from, how they rank in society, how they want to be perceived, and even how they feel about themselves.

These shallow details help us go pretty deep on character .

The good news is that attire is not only important, it’s also kind of fun when you start digging into it. You find that it’s about more than throwing out fashion terms and listing articles of clothing. It’s about building a life and a world, and that is something you can do.

Let’s talk about how to use clothing description as a storytelling tool, how to dress your character for their personality and setting, and how to make clothes interesting to anyone. Because it actually is possible.

Why Clothing Description Matters

One very important aspect of describing attire well is understanding why you’re describing it in the first place.

What exactly are you trying to communicate about the character, setting, or situation?

The answer to this question gives you a ton of clarity. You suddenly know which details to include, which to leave out, and whether to call it a “blood-red cloak” or a “goji berry wrap.

”Let’s take a look at how clothing description indicates your character’s identity, goals, and culture.

Clothes That Fit Your Character

Those of us who don’t get all jazzed about writing clothing descriptions often fail to consider that a good wardrobe has layers.

I don’t mean camisoles and cardigans. I mean what your character wears provides a clue to how they see themselves, how they want to be seen, and even how others see them.

Clothing description also presents an opportunity to play with different points of view . Maybe your character heads out on the town wearing a “daring leopard print jumpsuit,” only to have their best friend immediately ask where they got the “kitty costume.”

When you use clothing to define who your character is, remember that it can also clarify how they feel about themselves and how they fit into the world around them.

Here are some classic characteristics you can draw out through clothing description.

Conveniently, a lot of high status positions come with outfits or accessories that telegraph a person’s position in the hierarchy. This includes things like a pilot’s uniform, a tiara, or a Pink Ladies jacket.

But status can be communicated in more subtle ways, too. One of the first things I learned when I moved to L.A. is that writers do not dress “professionally” for big meetings in Hollywood. As a friend told me, “Wear jeans and glasses and have a favorite pen. Otherwise they won’t take you seriously as an artist.”

What are the rules of your character’s world? What’s the respected “uniform,” and does your character wear it?

It’s fun to play with power in clothing, because it's a relative concept.

One character might demonstrate their power by showing up to prom in a designer gown. Another might claim power by striding in wearing torn jeans and a tank top.

‍ Both can lose clout simply by the way their peers respond to their wardrobe choices.

Play with the question of presentation and power! It’s a good time.

A band t-shirt. A velvet scrunchie. A pair of starched Wranglers. A vintage polka dot dress with a sweetheart neckline.

I’d be willing to bet each of these items immediately brought to mind a semi-clear character. If you stopped to think about it, you may even notice yourself imagining things as specific as age, hobbies, and ambitions.

It really doesn’t take much. We naturally link clothing and identity, which is why wardrobe is such an effective tool for building a vivid character .

This one is simple, right? Give your wealthy character a pair of Louboutins and dress your non-wealthy characters in hand-me-downs.

That works. But it can also be fun to play with the confidence and ease that comes with wealth.

Your trust fund character might be completely confident showing up to a party in board shorts and flip-flops. Meanwhile, the character who works two jobs while going to school full-time might scour the Goodwill rack for a designer tag to help them fit in at the same party.

If I’m wearing lipstick with no plans of going out, one of two things is happening:

I’m in a great mood or I’m feeling like I have zero control over my life and failure is inevitable.

What your character wears can tell us a lot about how they feel or how they want to feel. A self-conscious kid tries to disappear inside their oversized sweatshirt. An anxious college student buys a flower crown in the hopes of feeling young and free at Coachella.

Clothes can betray our greatest joys and our deepest insecurities. So have fun with that.

Clothes That Fit Your Character’s Goals

As I write this, I am wearing jeans that are too big, a gray t-shirt I inherited from a former roommate, and a pilled hoodie from a lighting vendor that works with my friend’s husband’s company.

Given that I am writing alone in my apartment, you might rightfully conclude that my goal is to be comfortable.

But put me in a job interview wearing the same outfit, and you’d probably start making new guesses about my intentions. Am I trying to blow the interview? Impress someone with my indifference? Slog through another meaningless day in a world where nothing matters?

Or is comfort just that important to me?

Clothing tells your reader a lot about your character’s goals and motivations within a given scenario.

Which of these clothing types is your character most likely to reach for when starting their day?

Sturdy Clothes

This includes items like steel-toed boots, heavy denim, or tech-forward, snag-resistant superhero spandex.

If sturdy is a top consideration, your character might be expecting trouble or adventure. Maybe a bit of both. They’re probably less concerned with how they look (unless they want to look intimidating) and more concerned with things like survival or victory.

Attractive Clothes

Is your character trying to attract positive attention? Then this is their category.

Maybe they’re hoping to impress the cool kids or please their parents. Maybe their goal is to entice a mate. Or it could be that they want to be charmed by their own image when they look in the mirror. Either way, their goal is to be desirable, whatever “desirable” means in this situation.

Details about fit, cut, and material go a long way when describing the clothing of a character who longs to attract. Non-visual senses are big, too. Think touchable fabrics and the light scent of lavender soap.

Comfortable Clothes

Maybe your character is snuggled up in their fleece pajamas while the blizzard rages outside. Or they could be frantically running errands in leggings and a t-shirt.

Whether it’s a matter of indulgence or survival, feeling good is a deeply relatable goal. Help your readers feel the relaxed, organic cotton or the memory foam slipper, and they’ll feel your character’s priorities deep in their own souls.

Stealthy Clothes

This is a fun one. Does your character need to hide? Sneak around? Blend in?

Stealthy clothes bring to mind burglars clad in black outfits and soft-soled sneakers. But the definition of “sneaky” depends on your character’s situation.

Do they need a ghillie suit to blend into the natural environment? Or are you writing a spy character who dons Lululemon to infiltrate an upscale yoga studio?

Protective Clothes

Is your central conflict a life-or-death situation? Odds are, you’ve got a character who dresses to stay alive. Think armor, bulletproof vests, and bandoliers.

Your character might also have a job or hobby that requires protective clothing. Whether it’s a beekeeping suit, climbing helmet, knee pads, or sun-protective fabric, what your character wears provides a clue about what’s at stake in the coming scene.

Clothes That Fit Your Character’s World

The first time I joined my family for our biannual Minnesota fishing trip after moving to L.A. from the Midwest, I found myself constantly losing my aunt and mother.

Every time we got separated in a public space, I discovered myself in a sea of mature women with the same haircut and pastel tops. I never thought of there being a uniform for Midwestern ladyness. It took leaving the Midwest to recognize it.

But that’s the case wherever you go. Our wardrobes are influenced by our age, geography, culture, hobbies, and a million other aspects of our worlds.

Even the non-conformists are influenced by societal norms. The surrounding culture dictates what they can’t wear if they want to be seen as free-thinking individuals. (Huh.)

All this to say: there is substantial storytelling power in a coral “Life is Good” t-shirt.

Here’s how to describe clothing in writing to show your readers the world to which your character belongs…

…or the world they’re desperately resisting.

Clothing is one of the easiest and most immediate ways to establish an historical setting. If your protagonist is donning a tri-cornered hat, loosening a corset, or strutting through town in a new toga, your reader has a good sense of time period.

Or at least they know what century they’re in.

Now, if you write historical fiction, it’s important to research the clothing of your chosen era. More on that in a bit.

Clothing reflects the resources available in a specific time and place. When describing clothing in writing, consider:

• The time period of your story. (Has denim been invented yet?)
• The geographical location of your story. (Would people living in this area have access to leather goods?)
• Your character and community’s financial resources. (Where do they buy their clothes? How long do they need their clothes to last?)

You can also use this aspect of clothing description to paint a vivid picture of the world you imagined. Would the fashion designers in your fantasy novel make use of dragon scales? Are the characters of your dystopian novel forced to make do with burlap and mud?

Where does your story take place?

The answer can guide you towards certain fashion trends to inspire your character’s wardrobe. The geographical setting might suggest that your characters are expected to abide by strict rules for modesty or are celebrated for being wild and free.

And of course, location provides a clue for what it takes to be comfortable in the world of your story. If your character comes home and immediately sheds three layers of down and fleece, I’m going to assume they’re not in San Antonio, Texas.

Do your characters care deeply about looking respectable, or are they more afraid of putting on airs? What matters more to them: fashion or function? Do they strive to be humble before their god or do they want to spend this one and only life as their bold, ostentatious selves?

What is the prevailing value in the society of your story? Do all your characters embrace it? Who's your rebel, and how does their clothing reflect their defiant spirit?

How to Describe Clothing in Writing Without Dragging Down the Story

Hopefully, you now have more wardrobe ideas for your characters than just “red shirt, blue pants.” But what about the process of actually sharing these details in your novel ?

Let’s talk about how to describe clothing in writing organically . Like all forms of exposition, your goal is to deliver this information without pulling the reader out of the story. We’re trying to avoid, “Isabell gazed out the window, and by the way, she was wearing a white terry cloth robe.”

Here’s how it’s done.

Focus on Building the Scene and Character

First and foremost, remember that clothing description is still storytelling. You’re not infodumping. You’re working essential details into the narrative at the moment when they are most relevant.

It’s okay if Todd’s checks his designer watch three pages after you mention his silk tie. The reader does not need the full outfit in one go.

Also bear in mind that not all clothing descriptions have to be presented as “She put on x” or “He was wearing y.” You can draw your reader’s attention to an item of clothing by having your character draw on their jeans or fiddle with their collar.

Characters can also comment on or react to one another’s clothing, as long as the exchange reveals something about the world or relationship.

Don’t Show Everything

Our imaginations can do a surprising amount with just a few key details. If you tell your readers about Nanette’s light pink cardigan and string of pearls, you don’t have to say much about the shoes and skirt and silk blouse. They’ll see it automatically.

Select the most striking details and move on.

Use the Senses

One reason clothing descriptions can start to feel like a tedious laundry list (see what I did there?) is because we get stuck on what things look like. But there is so much more to the experience of clothing than that.

Tell us how the wool of your protagonist’s sheath dress scratches the skin on the underside of her arm. Mention the familiar swooshing of the neighbor’s tracksuit as he runs by the house every morning or how the aunt’s jacket always smells like cold air and pine needles.

Fabric, Fit, Quality, Color

If you’re good at talking clothes, you can sit this one out. But for writers like me who get stuck in the “white socks, green dress” rut, here’s a quick reminder:

Details about fabric, fit, quality, and color are super effective when it comes to creating a sense of character, place, or moment.

Baggy jeans. A scarlet pantsuit. A four-layer, bubble-gum pink taffeta skirt. The only cloak in the world made with silk spun by the cat-sized spiders that live in the forbidden mountains.

These images all go a lot further than “white socks, green dress,” and most of them don’t require a lot of extra words.

Make It Significant

Consider whether your character’s attire might serve as a symbol, highlight a theme, or represent a conflict .

Maybe they’re wearing an article of clothing that once belonged to someone they’ve lost. Or they’ll be living off soda crackers and peanut butter for the next week because they drained their checking account for a suit to impress at their job interview.

What would “high stakes clothing” look like in your story?

Let the Clothing Tell a Story

Really, the topic of this article is not how to describe clothing in writing as much as it is how to tell a story with clothes. Because like all other character details, it’s not enough to paint a picture. The image you create has to play a role in the narrative.Consider the character arc . Who is your character at the beginning of the story, and how can you dress them to establish their “normal”? How do they change, and how does their clothing reflect that change?

Be specific and accurate. In other words, research.

If you write historical fiction, you’re probably way ahead of me. You’re already obsessing over hat styles and what the undergarment situation was at the time of your story. Not to pile on, but don’t forget to make sure you know which materials were—and weren’t—available in the world of your novel.

And if you don’t write historical fiction? You’re still not off the hook. Make sure you know what’s hot and what’s not in your specific setting, as well as what specific words the locals would use. Are they overalls or coveralls? Sweaters or jumpers?

Get it right, and you transport your readers to a vivid world.

Dabble with Depth

If there is one thing I hope you take from all of this, it’s that none of this is about describing what a character looks like. Not really.

Sure, it helps your reader to know how you picture a character. It makes for a more entertaining read. But your reader is going to picture something whether you guide them or not. The reason we fuss over physical descriptions is not because it’s so important that the reader’s imagination gets it right.

It’s because concrete details are incredibly effective in communicating abstract concepts. In writing, the clothes kind of do make the (hu)man. Fashion photographer Bill Cunningham said, “Fashion is the armor to survive the reality of everyday life.” Try applying this philosophy to clothing descriptions in your writing and see what happens.

What does your character wear to feel safer in their world or in their own skin? How does their attire reflect what they want, what they fear, or where they’re going?

These are deep questions. And if you need a place to organize your complex responses, I recommend Dabble’s Character Notes feature. You can keep track of your character’s signature style, upload photos, note how their style evolves, and keep these ideas right at your fingertips as you write.

Not a Dabble user? No problem! You can try all Dabble’s premium features for free for fourteen days. Just click this link and don’t even think about touching your wallet. You don’t need it to sign up.

Abi Wurdeman is the author of Cross-Section of a Human Heart: A Memoir of Early Adulthood, as well as the novella, Holiday Gifts for Insufferable People. She also writes for film and television with her brother and writing partner, Phil Wurdeman. On occasion, Abi pretends to be a poet. One of her poems is (legally) stamped into a sidewalk in Santa Clarita, California. When she’s not writing, Abi is most likely hiking, reading, or texting her mother pictures of her houseplants to ask why they look like that.

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The Essay to Read If You Even Think About Wearing Clothes

The fashion calendar flipped to July and brought forth the rarefied presentations, in Paris, of clothing by the members of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture—a lot of sumptuous gowns to wear on autumn evenings among superstars, plutocrats, and oligarchs. The artistic director at Christian Dior, Maria Grazia Chiuri, opened her couture show with a simple white dress resembling the peplos of classical Greece: a rectangle of cloth draped to make a flowing column. Chiuri puts a lot of muscle into textual messaging; in 2017, she famously created a T-shirt printed with the phrase “We Should All Be Feminists,” in homage to the writer Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie . This year, Chiuri printed the peplos with the title of a crucial work of social criticism—Bernard Rudofsky’s “ Are Clothes Modern? ”—in a typeface inspired by the cloth cover of its first edition, from 1947.

Rudofsky, who died in 1988, was an architect by training, a polymath by appetite, and an iconoclast by temperament. He is best known as the author of “ Architecture Without Architects ,” about ancient monuments, nomadic tents, and other amazing instances of primeval design, and second-best known as a reform-minded interdisciplinarian whose work ranged from urban planning to interior design. (His contribution to fashion studies, and, thereby, social theory, includes a lecture titled “How Can People Expect to Have Good Architecture When They Wear Such Clothes?”) Chiuri described “Are Clothes Modern?” as a major influence on her collection, telling the Guardian that everyone who makes clothing should read Rudofsky: “He writes about how fashion is not just about creativity but about all of human life.” I would go further and recommend this book-length essay to everyone who even thinks about wearing clothes. Its analysis offers an exceptional structure for considering such topics as the passing of fads, the ideology of luxury goods, the evolution of tattoo art, the changeability of body taboos, the persistence of pointless pockets, the psychic satisfaction of a chic self-portrait, and the splendor of Cardi B’s manicure.

“Are Clothes Modern?” is out of print, though available on the Web site of the Museum of Modern Art. (It is the catalogue essay for a 1944 exhibition curated by Rudofsky, the influence of which extended to the 2017 MOMA exhibition “Items: Is Fashion Modern?”) Rudofsky’s writing style is conjectural, aphoristic, coolly passionate, generally fantastic. Deploying broad historical knowledge and a keen comparative eye, he does an enormous amount of discoursing around the premise that “the clothes we wear today are anachronistic, irrational and harmful.” The accompanying illustrations, uniformly delightful, include a juxtaposition of the patterns of traditional Marquesan tattoos with those of late-Victorian hosiery. Pages 120 and 121 boast a jazzy graphic mapping the twenty-four pockets and seventy buttons of a mid-century man fully dressed in a suit and overcoat. “What glass beads are to the savage, buttons and pockets are to the civilized,” Rudofsky writes, intending no disrespect to primitive culture. On the contrary, his analysis flows from the belief that the physical constrictions of Western clothing, like the capitalist contortions required by the system of producing and consuming them, often represents the corruption of ancient desires for bodily decoration.

He gives a rich account of what has been thought attractive and appropriate on various continents in various centuries, braided through with a progressive manifesto in favor of renouncing such shackles as throttling collars. (The personal wardrobe of the author was that of a mellow and worldly academic—traditional suits in flannel and tweed, a jacket with a gently futuristic vibe in its mandarin collar, a pastoral straw hat matched with a checked cravat and dotted shirt.) He admires such reformers as Amelia Bloomer, whose fight for the right to vote was entwined with her advocacy of trousers, and he smiles on promising signs of the advent of the equalization of men’s and women’s clothing. Rudofsky wrote thrillingly tart prose, as when condensing a historical overview of an undergarment into a one-sentence story of transfiguration: “This corset which first was used as a remedy for supposed shapelessness, later became a focus of erotic attraction, wound up by being an indispensable requisite of decency.”

The book is calling clear across a gulf of time. Rudofsky was writing only a generation after the corset went out of style. The zipper was new enough that he calls it a “slide fastener.” His distance only enhances his relevance and encourages the contemporary reader’s sense of perspective. Rudofsky seems, now, prophetic for anticipating “play-clothes”—athletic gear and beach wear—as “the starting-point for the creation of a genuine contemporary apparel.” But he did not foresee the changes in social formality and technology functionality that have led to a world of men in fine-wool trousers with elasticized waistbands, and women in maternity overalls made with elaborately pre-ripped denim, and people carrying themselves with yoga-trained discipline as they go about their business in swishing mesh gym shorts or cropped lycra tank tops. He would receive the news of our world with a jolt of pleasure at the dropping of some pretense of false modesty and a shock of recognition at the evolution of athleisure.

Rudofsky’s agitation in favor of sensible design included the creation, with his wife, Berta, of a shoemaking enterprise, named Bernardo Sandals. The sandals, with their healthfully flat leather soles that follow the outlines of the foot and their straps like festive riffs on rustic tradition, were a favorite of Jane Birkin and Jacqueline Bouvier. Bernardo Sandals still thrives, and a pair can be yours, on Zappos or at Bloomingdale’s, at a fair price. These utopian artifacts are souvenirs of a mind that begins “Are Clothes Modern?” with an unexpurgated retelling of the Grimms’ version of “Cinderella,” where a maiden amputates a toe to force her foot to fit the precious shoe, and that returns to that theme about two hundred pages later. “The modern shoe is among the articles of dress whose improvement is retarded by the fact that it is an erotic implement,” Rudofsky writes. “The generation that will see the end of the barbarical initiation custom of putting females on high heels, and the young man whose emotions will still function without the stimulus of Cinderella’s slipper, will fare better.” Many of the shoes that Chiuri presented, in Paris, hewed to the Bernardo Sandals ideal. They exist for a future in which the Dior client comes to feel that the house’s current collection of pumps and sandals, distinguished by crooked high heels that look like artful exaltations of deformity , have gone out of style.

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Fashion Essay | Essay on Fashion for Students and Children in English

February 13, 2024 by Veerendra

Essay on Fashion: The definition of Fashion does not remain restricted to clothing choices only. A person’s Fashion is defined by how one carries oneself – this includes within its realm clothing sense, etiquette, and personality and how one conducts oneself. However, to narrow it down, the clothing inclination, in general, takes up a significant portion of what Fashion broadly is.

You can read more  Essay Writing  about articles, events, people, sports, technology many more.

Fashion depends on person to person. It differs based on the place, community, and, most importantly, time. The concept of Fashion is always at flux. The trends and ideas keep changing from time to time. The glamour industry, all across the world, and specifically in India, is centered around Fashion.

Long and Short Essay on Fashion For Kids and Students in English

Fashion, as a topic for composition, is very new and contemporary. Students in schools can get asked to write essays on the subject for their assignments and exams. The extended articles are useful to people studying in classes 7, 8, 9, and 10. On the other hand, the short essays are common among students of grades 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6.

Long Essay on Fashion in English 500 Words

In particular, Fashion is defined by one’s outlook on life, and how one decides to go about with it. It is primarily defined by one’s choice of clothes, hairstyle, accessories, and other dressing-up tenets. One’s style of behavior and conduct also reflect one’s fashion sense. The concept of Fashion is never static; it keeps changing over time. The youth are the ones who follow and keep up with it elaborately.

Fashion is synonymous with glamour. It makes people, who practice it, confident and bold. It embraces the ability to express oneself openly and actively through clothing choices.

Fashion is no longer within the bounds of clothing and dressing. It has, in recent times, shifted its dynamics and extended itself into the ways of people’s lives. The lifestyle of people reflect their fashion sense in some way or the other. For example, Fashion has trickled into interior decorations of living spaces. The interiors of one’s houses and rooms and how it is stylized bring in their sense of Fashion. Another instance of Fashion is a massive concept of mass-following is that people like to indulge in such activities which are ‘in fashion’ or ‘are trending’; for example, a person purchasing the latest model of a phone or playing a specific sport, only because it is currently popular and everyone loves doing it.

That can be one way of looking at Fashion. Another way of looking at Fashion might be as a medium of expression. Just like artists express through their art, their inner feelings, Fashion also serves as an outlet of creative passion. Making unconventional fashion choices is a way of looking at conventional things in a new light.

Read more about General Essay Topics .

Fashion can also be an instrument for breaking stereotypes. It plays a significant role in breaking gender barriers. Fashion helps in ushering concepts such as cross-dressing and inter-mixing of female-male fashion styles. By doing this, it helps in breaking orthodox patterns in dressing and make-up. Fashion is a relatively new mode of self-expression. For a long time, it was not a very friendly house-hold term to use; however, fashion is gradually becoming more mainstream.

Fashion has been in existence since times immemorial. At its very primitive stages, it was seen as a very rash and outrageous concept. But with modernization, people are expanding their thinking horizon, and Fashion is becoming more acceptable as a thing to exercise and religiously follow.

However, as forwarding as the nature of Fashion might be, it does have adverse effects on society. Fashion often participates in manipulating and morphing one’s perception of beauty. The younger people consider their self-esteem to be diminishing if they are unable to keep up with modern fashion trends. They end up measuring their self-worth based on their beauty and dressing sense. Fashion also helps in raising unrealistic beauty standards for ordinary people. This throws a very tainted concept of beauty upon the multitude.

Thus, Fashion is a fascinating concept to keep track of. But it does have its downsides. If one is interested in flourishing in the field of Fashion, one should make sure to put forth what one truly feels rather than blindly following what others follow.

Short Essay on Fashion 100 Words

The term fashion means to be updated, to be sophisticated, and to be following styling patterns of the current times. Fashion includes one’s clothing style, hairstyle, and style of make-up and other accessories in adorning oneself. Our sense of Fashion also helps us in shaping our behavioral patterns and our conduct mechanisms. The way we look at Fashion is very heavily influenced by our ethnicity, gender, caste, and geographic origin. This is because various communities all over the globe follow different fashion standards. Fashion is a very enlightening concept and plays a significant role in most of our lives.

10 Lines Fashion Essay in English 150 words

• Fashion is a way of lifestyle; it is an outlook on life.
• Fashion, in a broad sense, means clothing styles and choices of dressing and make-up.
• Fashion has been a very attractive topic for debate and conversation over the years.
• Previously, Fashion used to be a very fantastic concept; it was something only within reach of the elites.
• The conventions have been breaking themselves; Fashion can now be followed widely by all the people.
• Fashion is heavily influenced by the social and cultural scenario of a place.
• Likewise, a person’s fashion choices give away one’s social and ethnic background.
• The concept of Fashion is ever-changing. It does not remain static.
• Our daily activities reflect our take on Fashion.
• The subject of Fashion is popular among the youth of a community.

FAQs on Fashion Essay

Question 1. What is Fashion?

Answer: Fashion is how an individual or a group of people represent themselves, mainly in terms of clothing.

Question 2. Is Fashion important in daily life?

Answer: Yes. Fashion inevitably becomes a part of our daily lives. Our fashion inclinations find their way into our chores, without our knowledge.

Question 3. What are the pros of Fashion?

Answer: Fashion helps people in overcoming their fears. Fashion also serves as an effective mode of self-expression and making bold choices in society.

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• Essay On Fashion

Essay on Fashion

500+ words essay on fashion.

Fashion is one of the most talked-about industries in today’s world. Fashion can be defined as anything that becomes admirable among the masses. It is a popular aesthetic expression. Fashion is related to clothing, hairstyle, makeup, accessories, footwear and lifestyle. People want to distinguish their personalities from others with their style quotient. Like every new year, fashion also comes and goes. The latest fashion will be more fashionable and colourful than last year.

New trends in fashion influence people of all ages. There is a tremendous amount of competition between the industry and consumers. Different cultures and nationalities have different styles of fashion. Due to this reason, it is always fascinating to travel to various parts of the world to observe how people dress in those countries. Now, clothes have become one of the main reasons to express themselves instead of merely covering their body.

Different people need different styles and designs for their uniqueness and personality before wearing that specific fashion design. This essay will talk more about fashion history, importance and trends.

History of Fashion

Fashion is all about the history of people. For thousands of years, people have loved fashionable clothing. Clothes, from the early days of Egypt, have become our expression. We can see fashion worn in various civilisations throughout history, documents, drawings, and other archaeological findings. Eastern neighbours influenced clothes of different styles worn by the Greeks. Both males and females used to wear thick woollen long dresses.

During ancient times, Egyptians used to wear light cotton clothing, and Egyptian women wore long, ready-made clothes. Later on, the Romans dominated the most significant example of fashion and style.

When people started migrating to Europe, accordingly, the style changed. To keep themselves warm, women used to wear warm clothes and men plain and armour clothes.

Since there were not enough raw materials to produce new clothes for people who migrated to America in that era, dresses were ordered and sent to the oceans by ships to cope with the demand. Suits with leggings were men’s attire, and women wore long clothes and hats on their heads. Over time, the form of the dresses transferred from voluminous dresses into soft, frequent, high-waisted skirts.

Women’s skirts were shorter and thinner at the beginning of the century. Trousers of men slowly went from ankle to knee-length. During the World Wars, women’s style transformed into shorter skirts below the knee.

The ‘80s brought significant trends related to fashion and hairstyles for both genders. The transitional fashion period is from the sixties and seventies. During this time, women wearing trousers became acceptable.

From the 20th century to the 21st century, fashion change continued, and still today, it is evolving.

Fashion Trend

When we talk about influencing fashion, political influencers play a vital role. There are a lot of instances where politicians become fashion symbols, like Princess Diana and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Political revolutions also left a significant impact on fashion trends.

Technology is another significant factor that influences fashion. The fashion industry saw rapid growth in technology such as 3D printing technology, wearable technology, etc. The Internet also affects fashion trends.

People are influenced by their favourite stars, influencers, etc. The strongest influencers in the field of fashion are social media influencers. Young stars try to emulate the fashion styles of their loved celebrities. For example, hoodies came into fashion due to rap musicians. Television and movie stars also influence fashion trends.

It’s entirely up to you to be fashionable; it shouldn’t be forceful, and it is your own decision what you want to follow. Our fashion sense also reflects our culture. It makes our life colourful and adds variety to life, providing an opportunity to try out something new. Though this time of the 21st century in India, most people are influenced by the style of fashion, they have not forgotten our traditions and culture, which are the priority and symbol of our country.

From our BYJU’S website, students can also access CBSE Essays related to different topics. It will help students to get good marks in their exams.

Frequently Asked Questions on Fashion Essay

What is fast fashion.

Fast fashion is trending now, and it refers to the rapid designing of outfits using inexpensive clothing.

What subjects are taught in Fashion Technology?

Fashion ornamentation, Fashion management and merchandising and Computer-aided designing are the main subjects taught in the course Fashion Technology.

When was the origin of fashion?

Fashion started when human beings started wearing clothes. But modern-day fashion is said to have its origins back in the year 1826.

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Anna delvey free to return to manhattan life, will produce new york fashion week shows.

She ain’t fake anymore.

The real Anna Delvey is on the loose, and legal, in Manhattan for the very first time, Page Six has learned.

Last time she was on the streets of NYC, Delvey was trying to scam unsuspecting businesses into investing in her grand plans and fund her lavish lifestyle.

But she’s served her time and she’s hitting the town as a legit PR exec setting out to found a media empire.

The former “Fake Heiress” has been under house arrest since October 2022 after she was released from prison.

Now we’re told a judge has made her free to roam the city — just in time to work her first New York Fashion Week as a fully accredited member of the US work force.

As we’ve previously reported, Delvey — who was born in the USSR as Anna Sorokin, before moving to Germany at 16 — set up a “pop up” PR agency this time last year with industry legend Kelly Cutrone while she was confined to her East Village apartment.

We’re told she’s since moved into Cutrone’s upstate home.

Now sources say Delvey has been issued with a Social Security number, so she can officially and legally work — so the OutLaw agency is now a fully functioning business. Which, we guess, means that fraudster Anna Sorokin has now become fashion pro Anna Delvey. How’s that for Manhattan magic?

OutLaw and Cutrone’s own firm, People’s Revolution, are taking out their own space in the Altman Building in Chelsea for fashion week, where they’ll produce shows for a number of clients.

The space, sponsored by Pornhub, will host runway shows for labels including Private Policy, Untitled&Co. and Shao New York. (Delvey famously hosted Shao’s show on her roof last year as OutLaw’s first project).

Delvey is technically still under house arrest, but she’s now allowed to move freely within 75 miles of her home.

She was dubbed the “Fake Heiress” after she posed as a German aristocrat to bilk businesses including luxury hotels out of more than $250,000 between 2013 and 2017.

She also hatched an ambitious plan to found a private members club and high-end shopping destination.

Delvey was arrested in 2017 and spent two years in prison. Upon release she was put into U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody, then later released into house arrest.

She was also the inspiration for Netflix show “Inventing Anna.”

As we reported last week, a judge also allowed her to return to social media after a ban.

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Sydney Sweeney Says Fashion Empowers Her as a Woman

“I’m always really proud to be unapologetically myself.”

From being on hit television shows Euphoria and The White Lotus , to movies like Anyone but You and Immaculate, it would be forgivable to assume that Sydney Sweeney is naturally confident.

But as the actress tells People in an exclusive interview, fashion actually helps her feel more self-assured.

“Fashion is a really fun way of embracing different sides of yourself. Some days, I might feel very girly, some days, I might feel edgy. Others, I might feel like I want to be more laid-back," she told the publication. "It's a way of being able to express those different sides of how I feel or who I am."

“It's always going to change,” Sweeney added, referring to her own personal fashion style. “That's what's so amazing, especially about being a woman, is being able to embrace all the different sides of ourselves, because we are so multifaceted and there's so much going on. I can never imagine being one thing for the rest of my life.”

The actress went on to say that she doesn't allow other people to "dictate" how she should feel or "what I should be doing or wearing," which just speaks to how fashion itself has empowered her to be unapologetically herself.

Sydney Sweeney wears a Miu Miu bandana top and skirt at the 2024 Met Gala after-party.

“If I put [clothes] on and I smile and I feel good [in them], then I know that's what I want to wear," she explained. "I don't really let other people dictate how I should feel or what I should be doing or wearing, because if I'm happy and it's making me feel good, that's what matters."

The actress spoke to the publication as a way of introducing herself, in a new way, to her fans via her latest partnership with HEYDUDE , a footwear brand she told the publication she has been "obsessed with" since forever.

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"I'm always really proud to be very unapologetically myself and the director of my own life, which is what I think it means to be a dude," she said, adding that the partnership is her way of redefining what it means to be "a dude."

"I think that this campaign really just pulls back the curtains and shows who I am behind the camera and inspires people to be confidently themselves," she added.

Sydney Sweeney at the 2024 Met Gala

While Sweeney admitted that the brand is "really popular among young men," she explained that to her the partnership makes sense because she has a history of gravitating "towards brands that I want to bring to a younger female audience."

"Everybody should be comfortable and confident," she added.

Danielle Campoamor is Marie Claire's weekend editor covering all things news, celebrity, politics, culture, live events, and more. In addition, she is an award-winning freelance writer and former NBC journalist with over a decade of digital media experience covering mental health, reproductive justice, abortion access, maternal mortality, gun violence, climate change, politics, celebrity news, culture, online trends, wellness, gender-based violence and other feminist issues. You can find her work in The New York Times , Washington Post , TIME , New York Magazine , CNN , MSNBC , NBC , TODAY , Vogue , Vanity Fair , Harper's Bazaar , Marie Claire, InStyle , Playboy, Teen Vogue , Glamour , The Daily Beast , Mother Jones , Prism , Newsweek , Slate , HuffPost and more. She currently lives in Brooklyn, New York with her husband and their two feral sons. When she is not writing, editing or doom scrolling she enjoys reading, cooking, debating current events and politics, traveling to Seattle to see her dear friends and losing Pokémon battles against her ruthless offspring. You can find her on X, Instagram, Threads, Facebook and all the places.

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Suit Yourself: How to Dress for a College Presentation

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From clicking through slides of that randomly assigned group project you spent far too long putting off, to unveiling a semester’s worth of research at an end-of-year senior showcase, there comes a time in every student’s life to give a college presentation. It may be a thesis months in the making, a business pitch to potential employers, or an informal introduction to a freshman seminar you nearly skipped over on syllabus day. No matter the case, however, the way you present yourself is often as important as the presentation itself.

For first-time presenters, navigating elevated classroom attire is a daunting beast to tame. Even the most oratorically inclined may question where to begin the clothing search, how to afford and style quality garments, and the list goes on. And while it’s tempting to rely on the classic 8:00 am cozy sweats and worn-out sneakers uniform, dressing professionally does not have to be a scary undertaking. Below, we’ve compiled words of advice and outfit ideas perfect for presenting your next big project.

Fuse Professionalism and Personal Style

If you’re stumped on what to wear, reflecting on your ideal professional identity is a useful place to start. “When you walk into a room, what’s the impression you want to leave?,” asks incoming Cornell University law student Avalon Fenster, known across social media as Internship Girl .

“Don’t completely scrub the things you would wear every day, but wear something you can feel confident in [that] suits what you want to project into the world,” said Kirsty Ward , designer and professor of fashion at Savannah College of Art and Design. Far too often, she observes young people going to great lengths to avoid being perceived as amateurish, to the point of “ending up in suits with no personality at all.” But to both Ward and Fenster, dressing professionally simply means showing up as an elevated version of oneself, without sacrificing personal taste.

It’s often those individual touches to an ensemble that make it all the more memorable, reinforcing the impact of a college presentation. Got a lucky best friend bracelet and necklace that’s been in your family for decades? Or a pair of conversation-starting shoes? Lean into these novel pieces that add flair to a more understated outfit.

TREATMENT BY SKYLI ALVAREZ. JEWELRY FROM IGIRL.

Work With What You Have

It’s quite easy to feel as though you’ve got to purchase an entirely new set of clothes to be lecture-ready, but some of the best pieces are likely already in your closet. “Before you shop for anything, before you add to your wardrobe, look for what you can repurpose,” said Fenster.

Resist the urge to buy everything you think you may need all at once by swapping items with friends, doing thrift-flips, and styling hand-me-downs from older siblings and relatives. Frequenting thrift stores and estate sales remains a budget-friendly alternative to spending on new items and can offer one-of-a-kind, affordable substitutes.

“It's way better to get fewer things that are higher quality than lots of things that are just falling apart. The last thing you want is to be at a meeting and [have] threads start coming out of your pants,” said Fenster.

Comfort is Key

You want to be able to command the space you’re presenting in and not be preoccupied with two-sizes-too-long dress pants and pumps that leave ankles sore for days. When it comes to closet staples, Fenster and Ward both stress the importance of comfort. “Whether it’s a great [pair] of cigarette pants or good flats you can walk in,” as per Ward, feeling and looking put together go hand-in-hand.

Ditch the no-support high heels for a clean pair of sneakers ; opt for soft, lightweight fabrics such as cotton; and layer for extra warmth when you know a classroom will be chilly. “Dress for focus,” says Fester, “so that you can not only look fantastic, but [also] be present in the task at hand.”

TREATMENT BY SKYLI ALVAREZ

Mix and Match Classics

Consider assembling a capsule wardrobe of versatile basics that can be easily thrown on for any college presentation. “I would definitely recommend having good button-down shirts, ones that you can either [wear] as they are or style in a fun way. If they’re oversized, play around with the proportions,” said Ward. She recommends Uniqlo for affordable apparel, especially noting its recent collaborations with JW Anderson and Marimekko .

To Fenster, the ideal professional closet for a college student includes two pairs of pants, two blazers, several shirts, a bodysuit, and a functional bag. Aritzia is her go-to for businesswear, and she swears by its front-knife pleated Effortless Pant and cropped Babaton Arbus Blazer . She embraces trends but advises starting out with timeless silhouettes.

The Bottom Line

College is prime for style experimentation and pushing beyond your comfort zone, both through the ensembles you wear and the academic opportunities you pursue. “Don’t pressure yourself to have it all sorted out, [as] you’re just at the start of your learning and career,” said Ward. The outfits won’t always work, though perhaps therein lies the excitement. With time, you’ll learn what compliments you, so long as you make a continued effort to push out of your comfort zone.

“If you’re someone who’s still navigating how to dress professionally, the best thing you can do is put yourself in as many situations as possible to dress up,” said Fenster. “Go to those conferences, go to those networking meetings, make coffee chats with upperclassmen, put yourself in classes where [presentations] are part of the syllabus.”

Shop several uni presentation-approved pieces below:

Soft Lawn Gathered Blouse

Babaton Equilibrium Top

Chiffon Skirt

The Effortless Pant™ Wider

The Greta Ballet Flat

Jeffrey Campbell

City-Boy Mule

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Are Gwen Walz and Ella Emhoff American Fashion’s Next Ambassadors?

If you’ve been tuning in to the Democratic National Convention —or have been following along on social media—you have seen former First Lady Michelle Obama deliver one of the week’s best speeches, heard Vogue political correspondent Jack Schlossberg take the stage and honor the legacy of his grandfather, John F. Kennedy, and seen former President Barack Obama make a very…subtle joke during his address on Wednesday. And you surely saw Vice President Kamala Harris make a surprise appearance on Tuesday night.

What you may have missed, however, was that Harris was wearing a sophisticated but nondescript pantsuit by designer Chemena Kamali for the French label Chloé in a “coconut brown” (yes, really) shade. Through her vice presidency and particularly now, mid-campaign, the Harris camp has made it a point to not make her style choices a headline. Harris looks polished, but her suits are now all cut in the same uniform silhouette: A sharp shoulder, a slightly nipped waist, a single-breasted jacket, and a delicately flared pant. While Harris wore primarily American labels through the events surrounding the 2021 inauguration, for which she chose Black designers Christopher John Rogers , Pyer Moss, and Sergio Hudson , her choices now are less pointed (Michael Kors, Dolce & Gabbana, Prabal Gurung). The approach, it seems, is less about fashion diplomacy and more about simply looking good.

The idea that fashion and style should be a focus for a female president is undeniably rooted in bygone patriarchal values and misogyny, but, quite frankly, so is the thought that it should only be a concern of the First Lady. Still, it is safe to assume, based on the past four years, that Doug Emhoff , Harris’s husband and current Second Gentleman, will not be following the footsteps of Michelle Obama or Dr. Jill Biden as unofficial patrons of American Fashion. (Obama’s sartorial choices were much discussed and very intentional, from wearing primarily American designers like Jason Wu and Isabel Toledo to formal events to choosing to wear accessible labels like J.Crew; Dr. Biden has similarly championed American labels like Markarian and Jonathan Cohen throughout her time as First Lady.)

This leaves an opening: Enter Second Lady hopeful, Gwen Walz and would-be First Daughter Ella Emhoff .

Vice President Kamala Harris, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, Democratic vice presidential nominee Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, and Gwen Walz greet supporters after a campaign event in Philadelphia earlier this month.

Minnesota Governor and 2024 Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz, and his wife Gwen Walz on first day of the DNC. Gwen Walz is wearing Carolina Herrera.

Walz has only recently stepped under the national spotlight as the wife of Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, Harris’s running mate. For her first appearance at a campaign rally in Philadelphia earlier this month, she wore a powder blue dress and a simple cardigan. But during the DNC, there’s been a slight shift in her image, a subtle but impactful polish. Walz wore a Carolina Herrera fall 2024 dress on Monday featuring a bouquet of lavender colored roses that matched her husband’s tie. On Tuesday, she chose a red sheath by New York-based luxury evening wear designer Cristina Ottaviano, and tonight she wore Badgley Mishka, a label by Mark Badgley and James Mischka. She paired the navy outfit with shoes by Marion Parke, a Minnesota-based footwear designer.

Ella Emhoff on the first day of the DNC. She is wearing Helmut Lang.

Night two of the DNC. Ella Emhoff, far left, is wearing Thom Browne, and Gwen Walz, far right, is wearing Cristina Ottaviano.

Ella and Cole Emhoff at the 2021 presidential inauguration.

Emhoff, on her end, is an anointed fashion darling and a fashion month front row fixture. She was the breakout style star of the 2021 inauguration, going viral in the fashion pocket of the internet for wearing Miu Miu, Thom Browne, and Batsheva. A talented textile artist herself, Emhoff has modeled for American labels including Proenza Schouler and Collina Strada, in addition to having attended the Met Gala with Stella McCartney in 2021. On the first night of the DNC, she was sporting the viral Harris-Walz camo hat with a look from Peter Do’s pre-fall 2024 collection for Helmut Lang, and on Tuesday night, for her father’s speech, she chose a look by Thom Browne, the chairman of the Council of Fashion Designers of America, as did her mother, Kerstin Emhoff.

Together, Emhoff and Walz paint a comprehensive picture of American fashion today. With her choices, Walz represents quintessential American elegance, while Emhoff stands in for the more fashion-forward pocket of the industry stateside. In just a week, Emhoff and Walz have charmed the public with their supportive on-screen cameos and shone the spotlight on American-born and immigrant talent, US-made fashion, and independent designers. The opportunity here is for them both to continue to do so as two befitting ambassadors for American fashion.

Emhoff in the Proenza Schouler fall 2021 lookbook.

Emhoff walking in the Collina Strada fall 2023 runway show.

Fashion Changes in Society and Culture Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
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Introduction

Works cited.

It is worth noting that fashion is one of the most important phenomena of social life, which concerns and interests not only ordinary people but also scientists and researchers. From scientific knowledge, fashion has performed as an object of study for many philosophers, historians, psychologists, artists, and so on. All of them stressed that fashion was an element of human culture and it served as the basis for establishing sustainable social ties between people. The purpose of this paper is to consider the ways fashion changes flow through society.

The advocates for conspicuous consumption such as Thorstein Veblen and others suggested that the core of the fashion change lied in the need of wealthy people to differentiate themselves from individuals with poorer incomes (Smith 4). Therefore, the changes that proceeded in the industry were driven by the need for fashion artifacts that would delineate the rich from the other population groups. In that perspective, the possession of costly clothing and accessories determined the cultural and economic identity of these people (Pham and Ali Nasir 75). Georg Simmel also stated that fashion served as a platform for social differentiation; however, he assumed that while the rich wanted to differentiate themselves from the poor, the latter tried to imitate fashion trends to resemble the well-off people (Apriasz et al. 2).

Notably, in the second half of the XX century, the emphasis was displaced from the psychological perspective to consumer behavior. For instance, Herbert Blumer assumed that customers were the driving force in the fashion change (Alver and Caglar 480). He suggested that the role of designers was to identify the collective taste and follow it. Therefore, the social context of fashion change has been expanded, and, in a post-industrial society, fashion has become a catalyst for consumer behavior (Cao et al. 1). Meanwhile, Kawamura regarded this process as more complex and stated that fashion was changing under the influence of many other factors apart from the society with its demands.

Nevertheless, if in retrospect it was possible to track the way social transformations affected the change and spreading of fashion, at modernity, fashion standards acted as a factor of certain social trends. In the postmodern period, the socio-cultural and economic characteristics of society changed the nature of consumption and its functions (English 85). In particular, the pluralism of views was reflected in the character of fashion, which gradually started to synthesize in itself a variety of trends and tendencies. The events taking place in society predetermined the development of youth culture and such fashion, which was based on their views and values (Reilly 79). For instance, Picture 1 evidences the way fashion houses tried to illustrate the importance of being feminine, which was promoted by the culture of that time.

The main manifestation of the changes in fashion in this period was the creative use of existing attributes (Hudders et al. 72). Consequently, the periodicity inherent in sociocultural processes was evident in fashion as well (Acerbi et al. 6).

Thus, the phenomenon of fashion has the status of a paradigm. It is a conceptual model, which establishes principles of selection and use of material forms that reflect the processes taking place in society. Social transformations place people in a changing context and encourage the development of new forms of behavior. The reviewed patterns displayed the fact that the interdependence of the causes and consequences of changes that were taking place in the culture and social structure of society was vividly reflected in the phenomenon of fashion (Crane 235). At the same time, the changing of fashion in social time and the environment is not only conditioned by existing tendencies, but it coordinates their progression as well.

Acerbi, Alberto, et al. “The Logic of Fashion Cycles.” PLOS , vol. 7, no. 3, 2012, pp. 1-9.

Alver, Fusun, and Sebnem Caglar. “The Impact of Symbolic Interactionism on Research Studies About Communication Science.” International Journal of Arts & Science , vol. 8, no. 7, 2015, pp. 479-484.

Apriasz, Rafal, et al. “The Hunt Opinion Model—An Agent Based Approach to Recurring Fashion Cycles.” PLOS , vol. 11, no. 11, 2016, pp. 1-19.

Cao, Zhigang, et al. “Fashion, Cooperation, and Social Interactions.” PLOS , vol. 8, no. 1, 2013, pp. 1-14.

Crane, Diana. Fashion and Its Social Agendas . University of Chicago Press, 2012.

English, Bonnie. A Cultural History of Fashion in the 20th and 21st Centuries . Bloomsbury, 2013.

Hudders, Liselot, et al. “Consumer Meaning Making: The Meaning of Luxury Brands in a Democratised Luxury World.” International Journal of Market Research , vol. 55, no. 3, 2013, pp. 69-90.

Pham, Trang, and Muhammad Ali Nasir. “Conspicuous Consumption, Luxury Products and Counterfeit Market in the UK.” The European Journal of Applied Economics , vol. 13, no. 1, 2016, pp. 72-83.

Reilly, Andrew. Key Concepts for the Fashion Industry . Bloomsbury Publishing, 2014.

Smith, Craig. “All in the Best Possible Taste: Adam Smith and the Leaders of Fashion.” The European Journal of the History of Economic Thought , vol. 23, no. 4, 2016, pp. 1-14.

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IvyPanda. (2020, September 26). Fashion Changes in Society and Culture. https://ivypanda.com/essays/fashion-changes-in-society-and-culture/

"Fashion Changes in Society and Culture." IvyPanda , 26 Sept. 2020, ivypanda.com/essays/fashion-changes-in-society-and-culture/.

IvyPanda . (2020) 'Fashion Changes in Society and Culture'. 26 September.

IvyPanda . 2020. "Fashion Changes in Society and Culture." September 26, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/fashion-changes-in-society-and-culture/.

1. IvyPanda . "Fashion Changes in Society and Culture." September 26, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/fashion-changes-in-society-and-culture/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "Fashion Changes in Society and Culture." September 26, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/fashion-changes-in-society-and-culture/.

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Kamala Harris’s Tan Suit Surprise

The Democratic candidate for president made an unexpected appearance on Day 1 of the party convention.

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By Vanessa Friedman

The author has covered political image-making and its influences since Bush vs. Gore, from Volodymyr Zelensky and his olive green T-shirt to the appearance (and reappearance) of the white pantsuit.

When Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for president, took the stage on Monday night on Day 1 of the Democratic National Convention , it was surprising for two reasons.

First, that she had popped up to speak at all, rather than simply waiting her official turn to accept her party’s official nomination on Thursday and taking her seat as the guest of honor alongside her vice-presidential pick, Gov. Tim Walz, and their families.

And second, that she had popped up to speak (albeit briefly, and in praise of President Biden) while wearing a tan suit.

A tan suit!

After all, there are few garments less likely to show up at the public performances that are the major party presidential conventions. The usual dress code is one of straightforward red, white and blue: suits and ties, dresses, skirt suits. The point is patriotism in the most obvious sense.

The last time a tan suit made political waves, it was also late August, and the person wearing it was President Barack Obama . The occasion was a news conference on Iraq and Syria, but the response from a large swath of the watching public was shock! horror! at the outfit. Peter King , the Republican congressman from New York, said he thought “the suit was a metaphor for his lack of seriousness.” Lou Dobbs of Fox called it “unpresidential.” It was such a sticky topic that jokes about the choice became part of Mr. Obama’s repertoire. They also became part of the late-night arsenal.

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