Fashion is the way we express ourselves through our clothing. It can be aspirational or practical, reflecting our cultural identities, values and beliefs. Fashion can also be a reaction to social or significant historical events. It can be thematic, reflecting a particular period in history such as the Roaring Twenties or a political movement such as the Women’s Liberation Movement. It can also be the way we celebrate important milestones in our lives, as seen with Meghan Markle’s choice of gown for her wedding reception.
We’ve come a long way since the Middle Ages when clothes were treasured and often passed down to heirs. In the 1700s, people pored over fashion magazines to see what the latest styles were. Even King Louis XIV had his own style, favored by elaborate laces and velvets.
Now, fashion can be as subtle as a new hue or a fresh silhouette. We’ve seen a rise in body-conscious silhouettes and elongated shapes that create the illusion of longer legs. We’ve also witnessed an era of ‘sleevification’ where sleeves are ballooning across the catwalk and high street, adding a sense of glamour to your outfit.
But perhaps the biggest change of all has been the emphasis placed on sustainability and environmental consciousness in our fashion choices. With the coronavirus pandemic and the rise of veganism, we’re starting to value the impact our garments have on our world. We’re sourcing more ethically made clothing and choosing designs that are as durable as they are beautiful.