Fashion is a prevailing mode of expression, encompassing everything from customs and styles of dress to popular music and speech. Throughout history, it has allowed individuals to express themselves and show their affiliations with various groups. Whether it’s for recognition or to stand out, many people try to differentiate themselves from the crowd by their unique style. Fashion has become an industry that includes the designing and production of clothing, shoes, and accessories. The industry is multibillion-dollar and has a global reach, with consumers in almost every country purchasing clothes.
There may be a distinction between the “high fashion” shown on runways and the mass-produced casual wear found in stores, but the lines have long been blurred. The same can be said of the division between a fashionable era and another, with styles that were considered in vogue at one time returning to prominence later.
The fashion industry can be a lucrative career choice, especially for students interested in the design aspect of the business. Choosing a school with a strong graduate program in apparel and textile design can boost a student’s chances of finding a job after graduation. Additionally, schools that have well-known alumni can help build a student’s network and reputation, which can be vital to a successful fashion career.
For someone without a sense of style, the world of fashion can seem like a confusing and strange place. Developing a good sense of style requires practice, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. Start by using your everyday environment as your laboratory: Sit in a café and watch people, study the way your co-workers or friends dress, and check out what other fashion bloggers are wearing on Pinterest.
You can also find inspiration by looking at historic eras. For example, if you love the 1930’s, take note of the gorgeous and sophisticated fabrics, seaming, finishes, and details that went into designing women’s dresses at that time. Then, take a look at how the styles of that period changed as the decade progressed until they shifted into something a little more cute and twee in the 1950’s.
While it’s important to keep up with current trends, always remember that style is personal and should be a reflection of your individuality. If you follow too many trends, it can actually be distracting and make you look dated.
It is also important to be aware of the environmental impact of the fashion industry. The water, electricity, and chemicals used in the process of creating clothing create significant waste that negatively impacts the planet. Fortunately, some of this waste can be recycled and reused, but it is important to know how much waste is generated and where it ends up. In addition, the fashion industry accounts for a large percentage of global carbon emissions. This is largely due to the fact that most production takes place in countries with low environmental regulations. This needs to change.