Fashion is the prevailing style in a culture at a given time. It may refer to clothing, hairstyle, makeup, accessories and even behavior. It can be inspired by music, art, literature or the media. The concept of fashion is constantly changing and evolving.
A person’s choice of clothing reflects their character and personality. It is therefore a form of self-expression. Fashion can be influenced by social and cultural factors, but it also depends on the availability of materials, tools and technology. It can also be influenced by business strategies of the companies producing and promoting the trend.
The popularity of a particular fashion often depends on the influence of celebrities and public figures who are seen as icons. For example, the Levi jeans popularized by blue-collar workers because of the copper rivets used to expand the points of stress in the pants and extend the life of the garment, became a fashion statement.
In the modern Western world, people have a wide variety of clothes available to them and it is unlikely that they will wear exactly the same as someone else. However, if people who are regarded as influential or popular start wearing a new style of clothing, others will follow suit to imitate them.
One advantage of fashionable trends is that they allow people to experiment with different styles and make up their own mind about what looks good. However, it is also possible for a person to become so obsessed with the latest fashions that they will ignore their own personal taste and style in favour of what other people are wearing. This can lead to body shaming and degradation of self-esteem.