Fashion is a unique form of autonomy and self expression in a certain time and situation and in a certain context, of attire, footwear, clothing, makeup, hairstyles, and general body posture. The word means simply a latest trend defined by the fashion business as what is fashionable now. What is fashionable to one person may be considered silly or embarrassing to another. Everyone has a personal taste in fashion. It is subjective and individualistic.

In common use, the term “fashion” generally refers to any of the following: trends in dress and the wearing of clothing as indicated by an individual’s personal taste. However, there are other uses for the word that indicate a tendency toward conspicuous consumption of finery, accessories, cosmetics, and other similar commodities, marked as fashionable by the predominant style of a period. Thus, to dress up is to pursue a fashionable trend. To dress down suggests an opposite trend, and the use of the word “sexy” to describe fashions shows that even fashions are becoming fashionable. A third use of the term is to denote any item of apparels or clothes that may be regarded as attractive, whether the attitude is positive or negative.

For designers, fashion is an ever-changing field. Trends are determined by social and cultural conditions, as well as by individual preferences. Some designers may focus on one trend, while others may concentrate on a number of popular styles. Some fashion trends become so well known that they inspire a new movement, such as the revival of the sixteenth century French fashion. Urban fashion styles represent a current fashion trend that borrows from both traditional and contemporary styles, with a heavy emphasis on high fashion and elaborate jewelry.

A major segment of the fashion market is evening wear. This segment typically caters to fashion trend watchers who prefer elegant clothing for cocktail events or evening dinners. Many styles are suited for a particular occasion, and designers often produce a wide array of options to choose from. Formal attire often includes tails wigs, long gowns, and ball gowns for more formal occasions. Casual clothing, which may include t-shirts, casual trousers, skirts, and jeans, is suitable for most other occasions.

Another type of clothing that bears no resemblance to traditional styles is called “fast fashion”, or “speed.” Many labels or companies claim to produce “the new modern.” Fast fashion products tend to be made from unprocessed materials and/or have minimal production numbers. They therefore have a shorter shelf life than traditional varieties and are not always a good investment.

In order to remain relevant in an increasingly materialistic world, business owners and consumers must be able to recognize and appreciate the many different types of fashions currently available. Fashion is not restricted to one area or another. Different areas of the world can see major differences in fashions over short periods of time. Trends can even cross borders and change ownership. This is evident when international clothing lines begin to launch in countries such as China or Japan. With the introduction of new materials, styles and markets, fashion has evolved and will continue to do so.