Fashion is a social process by which a discernable proportion of a particular group temporarily adopts a way of behaving that is perceived to be socially appropriate for the time and place in which it occurs.
Fashion has been a major feature of society, both in Western countries and many other places around the world. It is a form of expression that combines creativity and artistic expression with an interest in social relevance.
The fashion industry encompasses design, manufacturing, distribution, marketing, retailing, and advertising of all types of clothing (both men’s and women’s) from the most luxurious haute couture to everyday casual wear. It is a multi-billion dollar business that employs millions of people worldwide.
The idea of changing the style of clothing can be traced back to late medieval times and the most dramatic early change was a sudden drastic shortening and tightening of the male over-garment, from calf-length to barely covering the buttocks, sometimes accompanied by stuffing in the chest to make it look bigger. This created the distinctive Western outline of a tailored top worn over leggings or trousers that is still with us today.