What is Fashion?
/When we ask a question like '“what is fashion?” it’s important to understand the difference between the dictionary definition of the word itself, and an interpretation of the concept—which is not necessarily universal. What we can do, however, is define the word concept as: an abstract idea or general notion, and we learn that fashion definitely falls into that category.
Instead of dress and garments as individual objects, think of fashion as more of a tool for communication. Whether you’re concerned with aesthetics or not, your clothing says a lot about who you might be: where society may have placed you, your political ideas, your creative vision, etc. What fashion means to a haute couture designer is probably wildly different than what it means to Inuit communities of northern Canada; and as Shakespeare wrote in Hamlet, “The apparel oft proclaims the man [or woman].” One of my favourite things I’ve read about this question does an excellent job at speaking to both fashion’s practicality and creativity:
anna shvets, pexels
“Fashion is a combination of science and art - the clothes and accessories we need, and the way we express who we are individually and socially, how we feel, how we wish to communicate. Fashion communicates values and tastes, thoughts and ideas, form and function, how we work, how we play, joie de vivre...and sometimes, just fun.” Caroline Daniels, Professor, Entrepreneur, London.
Fashion is all of these things: industry, art, necessity, protection, expression, change, progress, reflection, the list goes on. It’s what people choose to do with it that makes it truly interesting.
To this end, I think it’s fair to say that a concrete definition of fashion as a concept is elusive. However, I think most people would agree that fashion—in addition to their definition—is an expression. To those who are fortunate, that expression could be artistic or philosophical. Designers and enthusiasts can play with silhouettes, colours, accessories, ideas, beliefs, etcetera. And for the unconcerned, or people who lack an alternative, what they wear is still an expression of who they might be nonetheless. For example, individuals that experience homelessness; live in areas with extreme weather; or have certain religious beliefs—a lot of times you can discern these things based on their appearance, and a majority of their appearance is their garb.
Whatever fashion means (or doesn’t mean) to you, there is something to be said about having confidence in this realm. And the reality is that as long as whatever you’re wearing makes you feel good; expresses who you are; and you’re happy with the message you’re sending, then by the nature of independence, it is a great outfit for you! Once you become comfortable with yourself and the idea of trying new things and being open to interpreting new ideas, your possibilities with clothes are limitless.
October 5th, 2020
Chad Hetherington
A fashion enthusiast and leisurely, self directed pupil of philosophy, Chad loves nothing more than love itself. In his free time, you’ll probably find him playing video games, spending time with his tight knit friends and family, or browsing for clothes.
