The popular style of clothing, appearance, or behavior at a particular time; or the way something is made or done.
From Old French “façon” meaning “face, appearance, make,” from Latin “factio” meaning “a making, a doing,” from “facere” meaning “to make.” It originally meant the manner of making something.
Fashion is literally about “the way something is made,” which is why it applies to behavior and ideas, not just clothes. Trends are just temporary answers to the question, “In what manner are we choosing to present ourselves right now?”
Fashion has been heavily gendered, with women’s clothing and interests often trivialized as superficial while male fashion is framed as authority or status. The industry has also historically marginalized non-binary and trans expressions of style.
Use 'fashion' without assuming it is primarily for women; acknowledge diverse gender expressions and avoid mocking gender-nonconforming styles.
["style","clothing design","apparel industry"]
Credit women designers, garment workers, and activists who have shaped fashion and fought for safer labor conditions and more inclusive representation.
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